Among creationists (scientists and laymen who believe in a literal biblical account of creation) there is the thought that stories of dragons actually refer to real dinosaurs. That's what Bill Looney's Dragons: Legends and Lore of Dinosaurs is all about.In this interactive volume, kids explore what truth there might be behind old stories of dragons. First, the author introduces dragon legends from around the globe, including those from Greece, China, North America, the United Kingdom, and South America. Photographs of ancient art depicting creatures who can only be described as dinosaurs is also included. An attached mini book offers eyewitness accounts, including those from Marco Polo, John of Damascus, Alexander the Great, and the biblical book of Job. There is a two page spread on dragons in the Bible. (Did you know the King James version mentions them repeatedly - and not just in reference to Satan?) The authors even speculate on how dinosaurs fit in with Noah's ark. Another section deals with famous dragon slayers, including St. George and St. Margaret of Antioch. Toward the end of the book, the author questions whether accounts of such creatures as the Loch Ness Monster could really be stories of living dinosaurs.
What I Like: There are lift the flaps, attached envelopes with papers inside, attached mini books, and other interactive features all over this book, making it perfect for reluctant readers. The topic is also fascinating - even for adults. All in all, this is a beautifully put together book with engaging and often colorful illustrations and photographs.
What I Dislike: There are some delicate features in this volume. For example, it was tough for me to open the attached envelopes without tearing them. And the papers inside? I can see how they might easily get lost.
Overall Rating: Very good.
Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 9 to 12, although some younger kids will enjoy looking at this book and having it read to them.
Publishing Info: Master Books, 2011; ISBN: 978-0890515587; hardback, 24 pgs., $17.99.
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3 comments:
This sounds really interesting, and emphasizes an exercise I can remember doing when I was homeschooled. One of the mothers read a passage from I think Job or possibly Isaiah and had us draw what we think the creature looked like. Many of the descriptions sounded like dragons or dinosaurs!
I'll have to keep this book in mind for when my kids are older...
Dragons and Dinosaurs does not sound like the optimal Christian story... but the comment from the previous poster puts everything into perspective...
It's not only the Old Testament which contains dragons, this is a specific figure of the apocalyptic literature. Just read the Apocalypsis of St. John in your Bible to see.
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