Make-a-saurus: My Life with Raptors and Other Dinosaurs

Lorraine Douglas is the youth services co-ordinator at the Winnipeg
Public Library.

Brian Cooley and his wife Mary Ann Wilson create dinosaur models for
such magazines as the National Geographic and for exhibitions. In
Make-a-saurus, the couple explain in clear writing how they made their
Sinornithosaurus model.

The initial part of the book focuses on the process from start to
finish. From their research they produced sketches. Then they made a
resin and welded-metal armature. Next they modeled an oil-based clay on
the form and cast a mold to be used to make a fibreglass model. The
authors carefully and humorously explain all the details of finishing
their fabulous creation, and include plenty of color photographs.

The next part of the book shows how children can make a dinosaur model
using a wire or papier-mвché armature. Several options are given for
covering the armature, including plaster, burlap, and papier-mвché.
The authors then provide options for finishing the model, such as adding
feathers and seeds for skin coverings. Instructions for creating an
environment or diorama scene for the model complete the book.

This excellent book will be especially welcomed by art teachers looking
for projects to challenge their middle-school students. Making the model
requires patience and skill, and some adult assistance with the supplies
and techniques (such as wire cutting and the plaster recipe).

Make-a-saurus will appeal to young dinosaur fans who love to find out
how things are made as well as those who want to create a compelling,
attractive dinosaur science project. Highly recommended.