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Wednesday, October 24, 2018

There's a Dinosaur on the 13th Floor - a review


There’s a Dinosaur on the 13th Floor
Illustrated by Kevin Hawkes

A smartly dressed bellhop, old-fashioned phones, and the slicked back hair, pince-nez, and bow-tie of Mr. Snore set up the retro atmosphere of this book on the first pages.  Mr. Snore’s immediate need is also quickly apparent,


“Welcome to the Sharemore Hotel,” said the bellhop.
“You must be Mr. Snore. Let me show you to your room.”

“The sooner the better,” said Mr. Snore.
“I am very” —YAWN—“sleepy.”



But, alas, Mr. Snore is destined to have a long night before he finally finds a place to rest his head—and his hysterically large nose!  On each floor, Mr. Snore finds himself  paired with an unsuitable roommate, prompting continued calls to the ever-cheerful bellhop.

The generous 10x11 size of this book is the perfect showcase for this delightful high-rise hotel and its unusual occupants.  Over-the-top illustrations are a perfect complement for often understated, but droll dialogue,


“How do you feel about bees?” asked the bellhop.
“The same way I feel about spiders,” said Mr. Snore. 
“Please skip the sixth floor.”


The expressions of creatures and humans are priceless, popping in bright acrylics and ink.  Even with the spoiler in its title, There’s a Dinosaur on the 13th Floor will still surprise you!  


My copy of There's a Dinosaur on the 13th Floor was provided by LibraryThing Early Reviewers.

2 comments:

  1. This reminds me of Professional Crocodile!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I don't know that one. I'll have to place a hold on it. Thanks.

      Delete

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