Regina Is Not A Little Dinosaur

When I saw that Andrea Zuill had a new picture book out, this 40-something reader was very excited. I simply adored her book Sweety (who doesn't love a naked mole rat with a headgear?!) a couple of years ago and looked forward to more of the beautiful illustrations with a sweet story that I've come to expect from this children's picture book author.

In this latest book, Zuill has written a story about a young dinosaur's desire for independence. Regina tries to show her mom that she's not a little dinosaur anymore by showcasing her hunting prowess (with varying success). Through Regina, Zuill teaches kids about gaining independence in small steps, handling disappointment and that, even if you're little, it's always great to dream BIG (but  it's okay to achieve your dreams in smaller steps)!

This is an engaging read with wonderful illustrations and a good conversation starter between parents and young kids looking for more independence. Though Regina be but little, she is fierce ... and totally adorable.

Note: Thanks to the author for the complimentary stickers and magnets she sent my way. I kept a pair for myself and the rest will be included in programs and book bundles for kids at the library where I work.

My Rating: 4 stars

Author: Andrea Zuill

Genre: Picture Book

Type and Source: Hardcover picture book from public library

Publisher: Swartz and Wade

First Published: April 13, 2021

Opening Lines: Deep in the primeval forest lurks a dangerous predator. 

Her name is Regina.

Book Description from GoodReads: Meet a young dinosaur seeking her independence in this hilarious picture book from the author of WOLF CAMP and SWEETY.

When Regina's mother heads off to hunt, she tells her little dinosaur: stay in the nest and be mama's good little carnivore. But just who is she calling little?! Regina is big! And she has all the tools to hunt herself: a fear-inducing predator stare, a terrifying roar, and an uncanny ability to camouflage. And so Regina sets off on her first real hunt, all alone. ROAR! Along the way, she meets some truly huge dinosaurs, and hilariously, and miserably, fails at catching anything. What if she has to live her life as an.... herbivore?! Little kids everywhere will recognize themselves in Andrea Zuill's intrepid young dino--eager for independence, but still very much needing the safety and comfort of home.