"You Can’t Take the Dinosaur Home" by Mary Esparza-Vela with Art by Mike Motz

In You Can’t Take the Dinosaur Home, by Mary Esparza-Vela, with art by Mike Motz, we have the classic childhood conflict – “Mommy, can I bring him home? Can I keep him?” But in this case, it’s a little more complicated. Three space tots are going on a day trip to a nearby planet, which just happens to be our own ancient Earth during the time of the dinosaurs. The littlest tot, Hunee, wants to come along.

 

Reluctantly, his older sister, Kyzzie, and brother, Sweetz allow him to tag along, knowing that they’ll be responsible for him and what a bother that will be. Naturally, Hunee gets lost and Kyzzie and Sweetz search all over for him. Finally, they give up and wait for him to come back to them. Hunee does return, but not alone – he’s riding a young, playful dinosaur. And he wants to bring his “treasure” dinosaur home with them!

Of course, we all know that would be totally unacceptable. Little Hunee, argues with Kyzzie and Sweetz, and like many little brothers (and sisters), he throws a tantrum when he doesn’t get his way. The older tots placate Hunee by trying to get the dinosaur, part by part, into their tiny flying saucer, but he’s way too big. So they have a sulky, pouty little brother all the way home. The ending is priceless!

 

The art by Mike Motz, is perfect for the story. It’s simple, expressive, and upbeat – appealing and appropriate to the story. Kids will surely enjoy this colorful book. Too bad we don’t get to see the expression on the mother’s face in the end. But parents and teachers can discuss what the mother might think when asked, “Can I bring him home with me?” What would you do?

You Cant's Take the Dinosaur Home has also received a Reader's Favorite 5-Star Review.  


Some of Ms. Esparza-Vela’s books are also available in Spanish, as is this one.  Also available are huggable plush stuffed dolls of the three space tots. 

  














This book is available from:

http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/dinosaur-home.htm