CATCHING DINOS!
About
When dinosaurs suddenly appear in the neighborhood, eccentric Uncle Bunkle raises the alarm!
Fortunately, he has plenty of ideas about what must be done. Unfortunately, he doesn’t really know what he’s talking about–there’s no such thing as a dino whistle, and tyrannosaurs apparently can’t be tempted with animal crackers. Nevertheless, his niece and nephew quickly jump into action, only to realize that catching dinosaurs is merely the first step.
What do they do next? Can they tame them? Should they invite them to dinner?
Catching Dinos! is a delightful, dinosaur kids' book that combines fantasy, humor, and valuable life lessons into one unforgettable read. With playful rhymes and hilarious scenarios, this picture book for kids captures young imaginations while gently teaching responsibility, empathy, and friendship.
Perfect for parents, grandparents, teachers, and librarians, this funny, rhyming book for kids is more than just laughs; it’s a tool for encouraging good manners, creative thinking, and cooperation. The bilingual format also makes it a great choice for families or classrooms exploring Spanish and English kids' books.
Whether you're looking to add to your collection of fantasy books for kids or searching for a meaningful gift, this story stands out for its charming illustrations and heartwarming message.
CATCHING DINOS is a richly illustrated rhyming romp. It’s quirky, whimsical, unique, charming, and weird, and a great read-aloud family sharing experience.
Praise for this book
This is a cute children's book about dinos living amongst us. It's great for a younger audience with an easy-to-follow narrative and wonderful unique illustrations. The dinosaurs are trained to be domesticated as they cohabitate with humans. Different and whimsical, my nephew will love this. We read about dinos almost every day and his knowledge exceeds mine at this point.
This was a fun, silly, book for kids! The story was so wild that it was incredibly engaging. The illustrations were non-traditional, but still lots of fun! We also liked that there was Spanish and English text right next to each other which created a great opportunity to improve our Spanish skills!
My kids LOVE this book! Catching Dinos is a hilarious rhyming story that makes dinosaurs fun, silly, and totally kid-friendly. The English/Spanish text is perfect for bilingual families and early readers. It’s a great bedtime read-aloud and has the same playful energy as Dr. Seuss. If your child enjoys dinosaur books, funny picture books, or bilingual stories, this one is a must-buy!
Uncle Bunkles’ Dinosaur book is hilarious! Dino’s dressed in tuxedos, driving cars, and partying. Partying and dining with dinosaurs is like doing the same with grizzlies and hippos; it’s fun while it lasts, but who knows how long before you are eaten? Many people, like children, love books that interject alternate realities into the humdrum of everyday life. I connected with that because I’ve always had what’s called an “abstract mind.” Does the story remind anyone of ET?
This book is a fun, laugh-out-loud story that kids will absolutely love. The silly rhymes and imaginative tips for catching dinosaurs make it a joyful read-aloud. The quirky illustrations add even more charm, sparking giggles and curiosity. It’s a wonderfully creative book that blends humor with gentle lessons, perfect for families and classrooms alike.
This book has a whimsical spirit that makes it easy to get drawn into the adventure. The playful tone keeps things lively, and there’s a sense of fun that stays with you after reading. It’s an enjoyable escape for readers of any age.
This book is absolutely hilarious! The witty writing had me laughing out loud. I was a HUGE dinosaur lover as a child, and always appreciate the opportunity to share this love as an adult.
I also love that the text is included in both English and Spanish. Not only does this make the book accessible to a wider audience, but it’s also a fun way for you and your child to practice Spanish (or English, depending on your native language). A fun and inclusive book to read with your kiddos.
Another kids' book that I would also highly recommend to adults with a good sense of humor. I have a weakness for dinosaur books, but this one is legitimately good. The illustrations are hilarious and really did remind me of Edward Gorey's style. The rhythm and rhyme were perfect, and the words themselves were clever, creative, and funny. I will definitely be reading this a few more times
I had so much fun reading this book, the story is so adorable and the illustrations were so well done and charming, there’s so many little details in every page that I couldn’t stop but be mesmerized by it all. I will definitely be recommending it! Thank you netgalley and the publisher for this early copy.
Catching Dinos is a delightful children’s book that offers a whimsical twist on the prehistoric world. The black-and-white illustrations of dinosaurs provide a humorous contrast to their otherwise fearsome nature. The storyline is engaging and playful, perfect for sparking the imagination of young readers. This book’s unique artistic style and clever concept make it a memorable and enjoyable read. The children at my library will absolutely adore this book, just like I did.
Sometimes you CAN judge a book by its cover! This picture book is one.
“Are there reliable types of tests for whether [dinosaurs] might eat your guests?”
You’ll be happy to know that, yes, there are. As this picture book explains, not only can you catch dinosaurs, but you can domesticate them, too! The intricate pen-and-ink drawings and the clever rhymes means that adults will love this book as much as the kids. -
Yvonne R., educator, NetGalley reviewer
Uncle Bunkle's amusing picture book Catching Dinos offers young readers an imaginative romp filled with whimsy and important life lessons. When a menagerie of dinosaurs takes over the neighborhood, the situation calls for some creative problem-solving. Uncle Bunkle's clever narrator shares with readers that even the most unlikely creatures can become friends through acts of kindness, consideration, and setting reasonable boundaries. While the story is undeniably silly, it touches on the relatable childhood experiences of making new friends and learning to get along with others, no matter how different they may seem at first. The protagonist's willingness to take a thoughtful approach and treat the dinosaurs with respect provides a positive example for young readers.
The story's brisk rhymes bounce off the tongue, making it a joy to read aloud. The rhythmic text is perfectly paced to captivate a young audience. Kids will giggle at the absurd notion of enticing dinosaurs with animal crackers and teaching them proper manners and fashion sense. The quirky digital artwork, which appears to be photographs rendered into stylized illustrations, lends a distinctive visual flair. The lively character expressions and dynamic compositions enhance the offbeat humor.
At its heart, Catching Dinos is a celebration of imagination and an encouraging message about the power of creative thinking to solve life's challenges, even on a neighborhood-sized scale. This zany tale is sure to appeal to dinosaur enthusiasts and any child who enjoys a good laugh.
5.0 out of 5 stars Unique
Reviewed in Canada on October 8, 2025
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
Catching Dinos is a surprisingly good book, I love the storyline. The graphics are unique, not like most children’s books but I think that’s a good thing because it expands a child’s imagination. The multi language is great, especially if someone is trying to learn both languages. I recommend it!