Lulu and the Brontosaurus by Judith Viorst

Viorst, Judith & Illustrated by Smith, Lane Lulu and the Brontosaurus, 128 pgs. Atheneum, 2010. $10.87. EARLY READER

This simple chapter book tells the story of a spoiled brat named Lulu, who has found success in getting what she wants through the use of temper tantrums. It occurs to her one day that she wants to have a pet, but not a normal pet, a Brontosaurus. When her parents refuse she finds her temper tantrum failing for the first time ever, so she runs away from home to seek one out. We find out how industrious and motivated Lulu really is as she encounters various dangers in the forest and continues on her search. Fortunately the tables get turned when Lulu is captured, she herself becoming a pet. To get away from her captor and make her way back home she must mend her tyrannical ways and make amends for her past behavior.
I couldn’t pass up the quirky artwork and formatting, but quickly found that the writing style is equally as appealing. Awash with creativity and adorable author interruptions, not to mention a positively fun pacing & journey, I recommend this book as an extra early introduction to chapter reading. (The chapters titles are pretty irrelevant yet provide a good pre-introduction to the chapter concept). I also like that it overrides the traditional gender stereotype of boys and dinosaurs.
K-3 –ADVISABLE. Reviewer: Stephanie MLS graduate.