Are dinosaurs from outer space? - What's New? - Book Review

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), March, 2004

The Hammond World Atlas Corp., Union, N.J., which for years has produced the most amazing computer generated maps, recently published two captivating, lavishly illustrated hardcover atlases that introduce children to the fascinating realms of dinosaurs and outer space.

The Dinosaur Atlas concentrates on the way the Earth looked during the mighty reptiles' 160,000,000-year prehistoric reign. Filled with engaging full-color illustrations, facts, and trivia, kids will gain an understanding of the evolution of dinosaurs and our planet as they follow these creatures across geologically shifting continents. The atlas features the latest scientific evidence of what dinosaurs looked like, where they roamed, and when they lived.

The maps and schematics are in credibly vivid, popping right off the page, as do the detailed illustrations. And while this volume obviously is geared toward the younger set, those of us who grew up sans the knowledge uncovered over the last three decades will find the reading interesting as well. Maybe we're remembering wrong, but when we were kids, there seemed to be maybe a dozen different dinosaurs. Today, such a list would barely serve as a preamble to all the various names and species that are making the rounds. (Heck, maybe Ross of "Friends" isn't such a geek after all.)

The Space Atlas, meanwhile, is just as impressive in its breadth and depth of knowledge--imparting facts and illustrations galore. There are chapters on The Universe, Stars and Galaxies, The Sun, The Solar System, Asteroids, Comets, Constellations, Space Travel, and each of the nine planets. The illustrations are quite dynamic. Especially useful are the planet Datafile Charts--breaking down information like diameter, speed in orbit, surface temperature, atmosphere, etc.

Each 32-page atlas measures a generous 10 3/4" x 13 1/4" and retails for $12.95. They can be found at bookstores or wherever better atlases are found. For the nearest location, check out www.hammondmap.com