A new book written by English author Andrew Norman entitled “The Dinosaurs and their Mysterious Demise” proposes a new theory to explain the dinosaur extinction.  The K-Pg extinction event remains one of the most dramatic episodes in the history of life on our planet.  Of the five mass extinction events, referred to as the “Big Five”, that have occurred during the Phanerozoic, it is perhaps the end-Cretaceous event that has attracted the most interest.  We suspect that this interest is largely down to the dramatic end of the reign of the non-avian dinosaurs.

We seem to be fascinated with the Dinosauria. Our curiosity prompts us to delve into the scientific theories that attempt to explain their extinction.  It is the dinosaur extinction that reminds us of our own fragility of existence.

Renowned author Andrew Norman puts forward a new hypothesis that explains why some groups of animals survived this extinction event, whilst others such as the non-avian dinosaurs did not.

The front cover of “Dinosaurs and Their Mysterious Demise”. This newly published book looks at the extinction of the non-avian dinosaurs and provides a new perspective on why some groups of animals died out whilst others survived. Picture credit: Pen and Sword Books Ltd.

Picture credit: Pen and Sword Books Ltd

A New Idea About the Dinosaur Extinction

Published by Pen and Sword Books Limited, this new release has already attracted extremely favourable reviews.  The author’s writing style has been praised.  Team members at Everything Dinosaur were intrigued when they heard about this new publication.  There have been numerous hypotheses put forward to explain the dinosaur extinction.  However, fresh perspectives are always welcome, and we exchanged emails with the publisher, requesting further information.

Whilst it would not be fair to elucidate on the new ideas proposed by the author Andrew Norman, we did receive this statement:

“The question as to why the dinosaurs became extinct is no longer in doubt. However, the question that has not been addressed is, why was it that the dinosaurs, which ranged in size from the largest terrestrial creatures ever known, to ones the size of chickens, were completely eliminated when an asteroid struck the Earth, whereas the mammals and reptiles survived? The likely answer is to be found in my newly published book.”

We welcome, this new addition to a controversial area of vertebrate palaeontology and we are sure that the ideas expressed in this new book will inform and intrigue a whole new generation of readers.

Book Details

Here is further information about this new publication:

Title: “The Dinosaurs and Their Mysterious Demise”

Author: Andrew Norman

ISBN: 9781399041126

Publisher: Pen and Sword Books Ltd

Published on October 16th, 2024. It contains 160 pages and 32 mono illustrations.

The publisher’s website: Pen and Sword Books.

A new book about dinosaurs is due to be published by Princeton University Press later this month (October 2024).  Entitled “The Little Book of Dinosaurs” it has been written by British palaeontologist Rhys Charles.  Rhys is the Senior Engagement and Impact Officer at the School of Earth Sciences at the University of Bristol.  He has also been involved with the famous Bristol Dinosaur Project since 2016.

It is a delightful, pocket-sized guide to the Dinosauria and their close relatives.  This book would make an ideal gift for the festive season.

A new dinosaur book “The Little Book of Dinosaurs” in time for the festive season. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The “Little Book of Dinosaurs” by Rhys Charles

“The Little Book of Dinosaurs” captivates readers with well-crafted and informative text. Vibrant illustrations and photographs of important fossil specimens are included in this charming little book.  It is broken down into numerous chapters.  Topics covered include defining the Dinosauria, dinosaur diversity and the evolution of flight.  Moreover, there is a fascinating section on the K-Pg extinction event. Readers can expect other archosaurs such as pterosaurs to feature too.

A skeleton of a pterosaur from the new dinosaur book “The Little Book of Dinosaurs” by Rhys Charles. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Book Details

Here is further information about this new publication:

Title: “The Little Book of Dinosaurs”

Author: Rhys Charles

ISBN: 9780691259895

Publisher: Princeton University Press

Due to be published on October 22nd, 2024. It contains 160 pages and 140 colour illustrations.

The publisher’s website: Princeton University Press.

The book contains lots of beautiful illustrations of dinosaurs and their fossils. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

It’s perfect for budding palaeontologists and fans of dinosaurs. Overall, it is a delightful read and highly recommended.

A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“This is an enchanting book.  It is aimed at the dinosaur enthusiast as well as the general reader.  We recommend this dinosaur book.”

The Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Toys and Models.

David, a customer of Everything Dinosaur and a writer of science-fiction books sent into us a review of a new novel entitled “Predatory” authored by Mike Esola. In the heart of the Amazon rainforest, where the dense canopy swallows the sun and whispers of a primordial world still linger in the air, mercenaries embark on a perilous rescue mission and encounter prehistoric animals.

Here is the “Predatory” book review:

“Predatory” by Mike Esola

A plot summary: a unit of mercenaries are sent into the Amazon rainforest to rescue an abducted billionaire, Elizabeth Pollock. She isn’t the first to have been kidnapped. The tooth-and-claw environment of the Amazon is finely depicted in its naturalistic wonder and there is a compelling antagonist called Jeffery, a former billionaire that has boycotted his possessions and vast wealth.

The front cover of the novel “Predatory” by Mike Esola.

Disgruntled from the capitalist world, where billionaires have focused on space travel as a commercial luxury rather than invest their fortunes in aiding and preserving the natural wonders of the world, which are being pillaged, Jeffery has retreated to the heart of the Amazon, where over the last decade has metamorphosised into a lean, intimidating and athletic Tarzanesque character with a split personality known as the “Misanthrope” who is commandeering him and has filed down teeth and sharpened fingernails and has a preference for moving about on all fours which gives off vibes akin to Sabre-tooth in X-men Origins or the Beast from the film Split.

But Jeffery and the Misanthrope aren’t the only threat; inhabiting this uncharted region of the Amazon are packs of Fasolasuchus, utterly formidable and horrifying nine-metre-long rauisuchians cousin of crocodiles that thrived during the Late Triassic and preyed upon the first dinosaurs, a specimen unfamiliar to the public. Overall, this is a splendid alternative protagonist over a theropod dinosaur.

Encountering a Pack of Fasolasuchus

The detail of the attacks by these rauisuchians is described well, particularly the size, impact and violence. So, kudos to the author for his wise choice of creature inclusion. And to ramp up the fear factor, Jeffrey is able to exhibit a degree of control over them. He uses a wooden paddle which he smacks against trees to draw their attention to his location when he is stalking his human prey.

“Predatory” is a real treat for any lover of a creature-feature, the cover completely illustrates the tense opening segment, and the title is self-explanatory. Throughout the story, there are plenty of references to the films Predator and Anaconda, such as the quote: “Over here, over here, turn around, turn around” and there is a moment where there is a shrine of polished human skulls encountered and the character of Cooper Conrad is reminiscent of Billy from Predator.

There are some scenes where the mercenaries utilise night vision goggles that may picturesquely remind one of the Hyaenodon scene in episode 3 of Walking With Beasts or the Velociraptor attack scene in Jurassic World.

Lots of Dinosaur Interaction

The dialogue between characters has Michael Crichtonesque tone to it which explains the ongoing situation very well. There are some psychedelic scenes involving views of the Earth, interspersed with some visuals of dinosaurs, in particular a supplementary hunt of Deinonychus against a Tenontosaurus as well as Diplodocus, Sauroposeidon and Dreadnoughtus browsing at varying tier levels of heights.

“Misanthropic pessimism colliding with capitalist decadence in a primordial setting.” Is the prime theme of this story.

Predatory concludes with an interesting epilogue encompassing the irrefutable fact of humans “geologic connection” to the Earth [a recurring quote from the Misanthrope] and the morbid influence of the antagonist passing on the torch.

This novel would make for a great movie adaptation, hopefully not by some director who does only B-grade films but a proper, well-funded feature with top notch special effects and script.

To be advised: “Predatory” is recommended for a reader’s age of 15 years + and has strong language and descriptive violence.

It’s available on Amazon in paperback and E-book.

Our thanks to David for sending in his review and our thanks to Mike Esola for giving us permission to use the image included in this article.

The third edition of the remarkable book “The Princeton Field Guide to Dinosaurs” is now available.  This is a fully updated and revised edition of this highly acclaimed book series.  Author Gregory S. Paul has once again excelled.  The renowned dinosaur expert has produced a most informative and beautifully illustrated dinosaur book.  Over a hundred new dinosaur taxa have been added to this, the third edition.  It is an updated account of the amazing Dinosauria, building on the excellent second edition that was printed in 2016.

The front cover of “The Princeton Field Guide to Dinosaurs”, the third edition. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

To read Everything Dinosaur’s review of the second edition (2016): “The Princeton Field Guide to Dinosaurs” – Second Edition.

“The Princeton Field Guide to Dinosaurs”

Following a brief introduction, the author provides a history of dinosaur research.  Their origins and evolution are discussed before an extensive assessment of dinosaur biology and how behaviours can be inferred from the fossil record.  The dinosaur/bird link is explored, and a small section of this new book examines the consequences if the non-avian dinosaurs had survived the K-Pg extinction event.

Following this comprehensive overview of dinosaur research, the author sets out the taxonomy of the Dinosauria and provides details of species.  Fittingly, basal dinosaurs are covered first.  Theropods and the sauropodomorphs are featured next before the closing chapter tackles the Ornithischia.  This excellent book features beautiful life reconstructions.  For example, Euoplocephalus (see image below).

A friendly-looking armoured dinosaur (Euoplocephalus) drawn by Gregory S. Paul. One of numerous full-colour illustrations in the book. Picture credit: Gregory S. Paul.

Picture credit: Gregory S. Paul

Additional Reading and an Overview of Formations

Gregory S. Paul kindly provides a helpful list of additional reading.  In addition, an index to dinosaur taxa is provided along with an alphabetical index of formations where dinosaur fossils have been discovered.  Throughout this book the author has included stunning skeleton reconstructions, often accompanied by life drawings.  He explains what fossils have been found and highlights the palaeoenvironment for each listing.  Close-up drawings of parts of the skeleton such as the skull are also included.

The book contains beautiful skeletal reconstructions and drawings of dinosaurs. Picture credit: Gregory S.  Paul.

Picture credit: Gregory S. Paul

Book Details

Title: “The Princeton Field Guide to Dinosaurs” by Gregory S. Paul

Publisher: Princeton University Press

ISBN: 9780691231570

More details and book orders can be made here: Princeton University Press.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“This is a superb dinosaur book. It is a must have for anyone with an interest in dinosaurs.”

Visit the award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Models.

In the dynamic and highly competitive world of publishing, a compelling quote from a respected reviewer can significantly enhance a book’s appeal. This is especially important when attempting to publicise a new dinosaur book, written by a distinguished author.

These endorsements provide multiple benefits. Firstly, they help to establish credibility amongst potential purchasers. A positive review from Everything Dinosaur signals that this book is worth considering. This is particularly essential in niche genres like palaeontology. Moreover, a captivating quote can intrigue a prospective buyer.  It sparks curiosity and excitement.

The front cover of the book features a mounted skeleton of Triceratops. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The Importance of a Reviewer Quote for a Dinosaur Book

In reality, a reviewer’s endorsement on the jacket is not just decoration. It is a vital tool for attracting readers and fostering enthusiasm in a crowded market. To this end, Everything Dinosaur team members provided the publisher of “A History of Dinosaurs in 50 Fossils” with a selection of quotations.

We had published a review of this new dinosaur book earlier and praised the work of author Professor Paul M. Barrett.

To read Everything Dinosaur’s book review: A New Dinosaur Book for the Festive Season.

This dinosaur book is published by the London Natural History Museum (ISBN: 9780565095338). It is highly recommended.

An Archaeopteryx (A. lithographica) model on display.  The iconic Archaeopteryx features in the new dinosaur book. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The publisher welcomed our review and comments.  In addition, we compiled some short quotations to support the marketing efforts.  These quotations are referred to as “blurbs”.

What is a Blurb?

A blurb is a short description. It is a concise, persuasive summary and provides a short, promotional description. Blurbs can relate to a book, film, podcast or any creative work. Blurbs typically appear on the back cover of printed books and are intended to encourage readers to buy the book.

Putting our thinking caps on we came up with the following quotations:

“A History of Dinosaurs in 50 Fossils is a captivating and illuminating journey through the awe-inspiring world of prehistoric life. With its masterful blend of scientific rigor and engaging storytelling, this book transports readers back in time, bringing the distant past to vivid life through the lens of carefully curated fossil specimens. A must-read for anyone fascinated by the mysteries and marvels of the dinosaur era.”

Our second quotation:

“It is a spellbinding voyage into the awe-inspiring domain of the Dinosauria. Professor Barrett’s masterful command of scientific rigor is seamlessly woven with captivating storytelling, transporting readers back through the mists of time and bringing the distant past to vivid, visceral life. Anchored by the lens of iconic fossil specimens, the book not only immerses us in the prehistoric world, but also deftly connects us to the latest theories and research, offering a holistic, enlightening experience. This is a must-read for anyone captivated by the enduring mysteries and marvels of the dinosaur era.”

The Dinosaur Book Blurb

After some discussion, we settled upon this quotation:

A History of Dinosaurs in 50 Fossils is a captivating and illuminating journey through the awe-inspiring world of the Dinosauria. Professor Barrett skilfully blends scientific rigour with engaging storytelling. He transports readers back in time, bringing the distant past to vivid life through the lens of iconic fossil specimens. Moreover, the author succeeds in bringing us back to the present by outlining some of the latest theories and research. A must-read for anyone fascinated by the mysteries and marvels of the dinosaur era.”

The award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Models and Toys.

The extremely talented Professor Paul M. Barrett of the London Natural History Museum has written a new book all about the Dinosauria.  Entitled “A History of Dinosaurs in 50 Fossils”, this publication explains the evolution of the dinosaurs as outlined by fifty remarkable fossil specimens.  Many of these fossils are to be found within the Natural History Museum’s vertebrate fossil collection.

Published by the Natural History Museum, the book is likely to be available in time for the festive season.

We wanted to highlight this excellent book, so we created a YouTube short about it.

Video credit: Everything Dinosaur

“A History of Dinosaurs in 50 Fossils”

The book is split into three general sections.  It also includes a helpful cladogram and an inventory of the fossil specimens featured.  In addition, this new dinosaur book incorporates some stunning dinosaur themed artwork.  The first section sets the scene.  The Dinosauria are defined, and their evolutionary origins outlined.  Fittingly, the first dinosaur to be discussed in detail is Megalosaurus (M. bucklandii).  Megalosaurus was the first dinosaur to be scientifically described (1824).  The evolution of the Theropoda and the sauropods are reviewed.  Furthermore, the origins of the first entirely herbivorous dinosaurs are highlighted.  Also, there are extensive notes on Lesothesaurus, Massospondylus and Herrerasaurus.

A view of the skull and jaw material associated with the first dinosaur to be scientifically described (Megalosaurus). Megalosaurus bucklandii is the first dinosaur to feature in a new book written by Professor Paul M. Barrett. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Part two of this well-written volume examines the huge variety of different types of dinosaur to evolve.  This astonishing variety is highlighted by beautiful photographs of fossil material. The dinosaurs featured include Mamenchisaurus, Allosaurus, Stegosaurus and Giraffatitan.  It is pleasing to note that many dinosaurs from the British Isles are included, although it is hard for us to imagine Hypsilophodon as “Mesozoic cows”.

To read a blog post from 2023 about the describing of a new species of Wessex Formation hypsilophodontid: Vectidromeus – A New Hypsilophodontid from the Isle of Wight.

Furthermore, this section delves into the evolution of powered flight amongst members of the Maniraptora and there are numerous, splendid photographs of feathered dinosaur fossils.  Naturally, look out for the text dedicated to the iconic Archaeopteryx lithographica.

The front cover of the book features a mounted skeleton of Triceratops. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Locomotion, Diet, Breathing and Enormous Titanosaurs

The third and final section highlights dinosaur biology.  Topics covered include diet, locomotion, breathing, ontogeny and the endothermic versus ectothermic debate.  Of particular note was the “life at the extremes” segment.  This discussed the remarkable titanosaur Patagotitan, one of the largest terrestrial vertebrates known to science.  Perhaps, Professor Barrett was inspired by the recent Patagotitan exhibition held at the museum.

Sue from Everything Dinosaur poses in front of the colossal Patagotitan skeleton which is being exhibited at the Natural History Museum (London). Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

“A History of Dinosaurs in 50 Fossils” by Professor Paul M. Barrett is published by the London Natural History Museum (ISBN: 9780565095338).

We expect it to be out in all good book stores in the autumn and, we highly recommend this new dinosaur book!