Rex: Dinosaur in Disguise; Elys Dolan

Author and illustrator Elys Dolan’s latest story of animals keeping up appearances is widely imaginative, roar-some fun that will be devoured by readers, much like dinosaur Rex scoffs his new favourite snack - Cheez Nubbins.

Rex was ruler of the prehistoric world until an untimely ice age came along and froze him and all of his dino buddies. Now, sixty-five million years later, the ice has melted and someone else rules the roost…humans. And if they discover Rex, then he’ll be heading to a zoo or even worse…a museum.

Rex though isn’t the only creature in town. Bigfoot has been living amongst the humans for years and is more than happy to land a paw/hand to a friend in need. All Rex needs to do is don a disguise and master the art of being human.

But that is easier said than done. With a pesky child conducting her own investigation and humans that could expose Rex’s secret at any moment, how long can Rex remain as the dinosaur in disguise…

This is a rip-roaring read for those who love accessible, funny stories that are accompanied by bags of humorous illustrations. Children will be giggling their way through this dino-riffic read as Rex tries to integrate himself into the twenty-first century with a little help from his friends - housemate Bigfoot, local pool lifeguard Nessy and burger restaurant owner Dodo.

Rex trying to get his rather large head around human life offers up all manner of incredibly funny and ridiculous situations as he and the rest of the undercover creatures try to hide amongst the humans. Modern life has plenty of challenges for a dinosaur; clothing for starters, what’s the deal with money and debit cards, why are humans obsessed with coffee and what kind of job is suitable for a T-Rex?

Obviously, things invariably go wrong for Rex who displays childlike enthusiasm for absolutely everything, much to the exasperation of Bigfoot who is trying to keep a lid on things and ensure that their secret is not discovered. Whilst Rex may not have the subtlety to blend in quite as well as his new BFF he tries his best and always bounces back no matter how badly things have gone.

The whole thing is wonderfully entertaining and revels in silliness. A cleverly woven in subplot that sees a child trying to unravel the mystery of her non-human neighbours explores themes of friendship and bullying. Wider messages around discrimination, inclusion, judging others, friendship, fitting in, tolerance and acceptance are gently included throughout.

With huge thanks to Walker for the copy I received in exchange for an honest review.

Recommended for 7+.