It's always so much fun to read and analyze picture books that help me become a better writer. I thought I'd share what I discover along the way in a new blog series, "Exploring Mentor Texts." Most of what I share will be non-fiction or informational fiction picture books as this is where my passion lies.

First Up: STONE AGE BEASTS
Author: Ben Lerwill
Illustrator: Grahame Baker-Smith

Things I love about this book:

• The first two 2-page spreads are filled with information introducing the topic. For example, what the world looked like, what humans were like, and how they interacted with the various animals that lived during that time.
• Every two-page spread after that introduces the reader to a different "beast." The illustrations are vibrant, large depictions of the animals.
• There is an info box on every animal which consistently shows the same data: scientific name, weight, when it became extinct, and a map showing where it lived. The illustration in each box also shows the animal in comparison to a human--very effective!
• Although it is non-fiction there are lots of metaphors and analogies to a child's real life. There is also alliteration, vivid verbs, and wonderful adjectives included in the narrative.

Some of my favorite lines:

• "...lumbered like a supersize ostrich."
• "...beak as big as a witch's hat."
• "...loping legs, muscly forearms, savage snout."
• "SHHH. Listen! Can you hear branches being torn and shaken?"

This book really makes the Stone Age come to life!