Drumheller Dinosaur Dance by Robert Heidbreder

Heidbreder, R. (2004). Drumheller dinosaur dance. Ontario, Canada: Kids Can Press Ltd.

Summary:

On stormy nights when children dream the Drumheller Dinosaurs move through the cracks of dirt, rearrange their fossils, and dance. They grab their instruments and begin to sing and dance. While dreaming, children dance alongside the dinosaurs. However, once the day breaks the dinosaurs put their instruments away, unsnap their bones, and bury themselves into the ground waiting until the next “dinosaur night.”

Advisory Information

Themes:

a. Dinosaurs: While the story does not really give information about types of dinosaurs, or which dinosaurs were indigenous to Canada, the book’s illustrations do an excellent job recreating fossilized dinosaurs.

b. Drumheller Dinosaur Dance also promotes the idea that children need to develop their imaginations. That imagination allows the reader to see dinosaurs and dance with them. In the story, the adults think that the dance is just a storm, while the children in their sleep are not only aware of the dinosaur dance, but are also participating.

Age Recommendation

Drumheller Dinosaur Dance is a picture book so while it is acceptable for all ages, it will probably most appeal to pre-school to first grade children.

Other Information:

Drumheller Dinosaur Dance is illustrated by Bill Slavin and Esperança Melo.

2005 Childrens’ Choices, International Reading Association , shortlist

The story takes place in Drumheller, Alberta, Canada.

Reaction

The illustrations really connect well with the text. The text itself is a simple rhyme; however, the contrast of the white bones against a dark brown background allows the pictures and text to pop. This book is perfect for adults to read to children. While the storyline is not entirely original, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.