Dinosaur facts and figures The theropods and other dinosauriformes

One of the most remarkable books about dinosaurs to appear in recent years, this book confines itself entirely to one group of about 750 species (Theropods--almost all carnivores, including the birds). True to its title, the volume features no narrative text. Chapters are mainly composed of graphic information displays: charts, maps, and colorful images, including an abundance of expertly reconstructed, full-body and skeletal representations, as well as images of dinosaur eggs and footprints. Charts convey a vast compendium of facts, covering everything from the locomotive speed of different species to the size and location of the largest egg, as well as noteworthy appearances of Theropods in popular movies. This coffee-table volume is beautifully designed, yet so packed with information that the print size is relatively small. The book is divided into eight sections: "Comparing Species," "Mesozoic Calendar," "The World of Dinosaurs," "Prehistoric Puzzle" (interpreting fossil remains), "Theropod Life" (diet, intelligence, and reproduction), "Testimony in Stone" (fossil footprints), "Chronicle and Dinomania" (history and culture), and "Theropod List." Though time and patience will be required to digest all the information offered, readers will easily become absorbed in navigating the various pathways through this amazing volume: a striking feature is that one may begin at any page. Recommended for all who love learning about dinosaurs. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All readers. --John Kricher, emeritus, Wheaton College (MA)

This survey of the theropods, the great dinosaur subgroup that includes Tyrannosaurus rex and the ancestors of birds, is an inspired blend of art, science, and imagination. The authors--principals of Eofauna, a company that produces reproductions of prehistoric fauna--slice and dice scads of information about dinosaur taxonomy, chronology, geography, anatomy, biology, footprints, history, and culture, and conclude with a complete list of theropod species current to 2016. The authors present more than 3,000 records on some 750 species: "largest," "smallest," "oldest," "most recent," "fastest," and "strongest," among other comparisons. Smart design and numerous graphs and charts make complex data intelligible; to make it verifiable, included is a list of references and an appendix on statistical matters (to be accessed online). This work can function as a browsing bonanza for casual dino-lovers, but it addresses itself primarily to those whose interest runs a little deeper; when the authors discuss anatomy or dinosaur biomechanics, for example, the audience narrows considerably. The profuse, irresistible "paleo-art" will surely captivate readers of all ages. VERDICT A marvelous work of synthesis. Selectors would do well to place it the circulating collection, as readers will need time and leisure to absorb the many wondrous facets.--Robert Eagan, Windsor P.L., Ont.