Everybody Out of the Water!

Megatooth

by Patrick O’Brien

Summary

One of the biggest creatures to ever inhabit the earth (bigger than Tyrannosaurus Rex!) was not walking amongst the dinosaurs. Rather, it was swimming the waters of the ocean before prehistoric man came into existence. In Megatooth, Patrick O’Brien introduces readers to Megalodon - meaning “megatooth” - a giant great-white type shark that was as much as 50-feet long. Megatooth is an exciting array of facts about this ancient creature, as well as others that were alive in prehistoric times.

Worth staying up past bedtime?

I was so excited by what I learned in this book! I was not aware of the existence of Megalodon, the giant shark that lived before humans came into existence. O’Brien’s book presents the information in a format that is extremely accessible for young readers. Colorful pictures demonstrate the mind-boggling facts about this ancient creature, and tidbits of information about Megalodon (and sharks in general) left me with new knowledge that I never knew I would enjoy acquiring so much. A must read for any young mind, and especially for any youngster with an interest in dinosaurs or big animals.

Reviews

O'Brien supplies children with several interesting facts that scientists have surmised about this fascinating creature from the huge teeth that have been found along seashores (as an afterword explains in more detail). The brief text is accompanied by oversized watercolor-and-gouache illustrations. This first look at a prehistoric animal is sure to be a hit with young dinosaur fans, who will appreciate the arresting cover illustration depicting a wide-open toothy jaw crunching on crumbling title letters. - School Library Journal

At the library

Megatooth has great visuals to demonstrate the size of the Megalodon. Mark a space that is the length of the shark (50 feet!) and have children measure themselves in comparison to it. Find pictures of dinosaurs from different eras for children to color and provide a timeline so they can hang them up during the era the dinosaurs lived in.

SLIS 5420

Module 11

Nov. 8-15