The Dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins

The Dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins

by Barbara Kerley

With drawings by Brian Selznick

This is the true and unforgettable story of Victorian artist Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins who was a dedicated and passionate artist. He had a goal of building life-size models of dinosaurs envisioned from scientific fossils in the hope of educating the world about these awe-inspiring ancient animals. This was during a time when no one knew what dinosaurs were like.

We read this intriguing and captivating story aloud during Readers Workshop, and our students had much to take away from it. They learned to have courage and never give up on their dreams, because Waterhouse Hawkins never did, despite a corrupt politician who thwarted two years of his life's work in Central Park, New York City. They also learned that hard work and determination is the road to reaching your dreams and goals. Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins taught us all about the importance of believing in oneself and following your dreams.
He is a creative man who stretched the boundaries of what has been done before, and his legacy lives on today.

Watch this clip on Youtube and have your child recount the story as you flip through the incredible artwork together, page by page.

http://www.youtube.com/embed/He_qLTgKKQk?rel=0

Students, we would love for you to write a comment and share your thoughts and feelings about this amazing picture book.