We Are the Dinosaurs

PreS-Gr 1—The marching rhythm of Berkner's hit tune comes through in this playful picture book adaptation. The simple, repetitive lyrics ("We are the dinosaurs,/marching, marching. We are the dinosaurs—/whaddaya think of that?") are transformed through brilliant illustrations by Clanton into a story about a troop of young dinosaurs going on an explorative adventure. While some of the lyrics don't quite match up with the illustrations (the visuals depict the dinos napping in a volcanic cave, not in a nest), the plot contains enough of an arc that it makes sense as a whole. The mixed-media dinosaurs are part David Ezra Stein's Dinosaur Kisses, part Gus, the Dinosaur Bus, with a big dose of Clanton's bold and adorable style. He includes just the right touch of anthropomorphism and accessories to give each dinosaur and parent unique personalities without making the book over-the-top. The simple lyrics are supplemented heavily by animal asides, which can sometimes overwhelm the page. Upon first read, the excess words may present a challenge and disrupt the natural and fun rhythm of the lyrics. But once the reading flow is established, this title will be read over and over.