Book Review - The Princeton Field Guide to Sauropod and Prosauropod Dinosaurs - Princeton University Press

 

     It is a cause for celebration when the renowned dinosaur researcher, Gregory S. Paul, authors another book. Our knowledge of these ancient taxa grows exponentially each year, aided by advances in technology and computer wizardry, but in no small measure as a result of the ongoing contribution of experts such as Paul.

     As usual, the book is an incredible compendium of facts, incorporating the latest knowledge, accompanied by the always mind-blowing artwork that is such an important feature of Paul's works. The book is written in classic Paul style, easy to read, flowing, jocular at times, but never straying from the facts as currently known. Possessed of that enviable skill of being the illustrator of his own works ensures accuracy, and leaves us all in awe that one man can do so much.

 

     Along the way we are treated to snapshots and vignettes of those researchers who have gone before, their foibles and the perpetuation of myth and downright inaccuracy, sometimes even in the face of overwhelming evidence. 
     The pictorial images are quite splendid, often accurate as to colour and background vegetation, and the schematic depictions of skeletal and musculature features, are nothing short of breathtaking. One really feels that one could walk with dinosaurs. 

     In fact, as he has done in the past, Paul leads us on an imaginary safari in the Age of Dinosaurs. 

     Oh to have experienced such a thrill! I am quite willing to set aside the impossibility of it all, and contemplate my own Jurassic Park!

     The "field guide" section of the book covers 275 species and tells you all that you could ever wish to know. It is on these pages that you really appreciate the anatomical details, enabling you to interpret the kinetic abilities of these sometimes huge (I mean huge) beasts.

     There are doubtless those who do not especially care for the flora and fauna of the distant past, even those who believe in a six thousand year-old Earth, but for most of us there is a fascination with what once existed on our ancient planet, the creatures that preceded us and the nature of their extinction, and its relevance to the Anthropocene and the Sixth Extinction, currently advancing at full steam.

     This is the book for you!

The Princeton Field Guide to Sauropod and Prosauropod Dinosaurs - Princeton University Press

Gregory S. Paul

Hardcover - US$35.00 - ISBN: 9780691268651

176 pages - 8.5 x 11 inches (21.25 x 27.5 cm)

150 colour and black-and-white illustrations

Publication date: 03 March, 2026