Cover Image: Rhinos in Nebraska

Rhinos in Nebraska

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Member Reviews

A readable narrative nonfiction book that explores the field of paleontology, archeology and scientific discovery. I learned a lot in this book about the impact of climate change on the flora and fauna of the US before the ice age, during and after.

Starting with Rhino skeletons found in Nebraska, the author takes the reader on a journey of how the US changed into the environment we know today as well as the animals that were present millions of years before us and how and why they disappeared from the earth.

Technical terms are well described and made accessible to readers. I like how the author approached a topic that could easily have become overwhelming with new-to-the-reader information and scientific vocabulary. If you are looking to purchase newer books on fossils and earlier epochs of history, this would be a great addition to the collection.

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Rhinos in Nebraska is a fascinating read! This book provides a glimpse into Nebraska's landscape and animal inhabitants approximately 12 million years ago and details how a volcanic eruption in Idaho led to the untimely death of many of these creatures. It also explains the modern-day scientific discoveries that have helped to illuminate the state's surprising past. From the chance discovery of a single rhinoceros skull in a quiet farming community in 1953 to the unearthing of more than 25,000 fossils and countless answers to age-old questions, this book covers each of the major discoveries at the Ashfall Fossil Beds that have contributed to our current knowledge of Nebraska’s rich and varied history.

I have lived in Nebraska for more than a decade, yet I had never heard of the Ashfall Fossil Beds. I was genuinely amazed and intrigued by the information presented in this book, and, in my opinion, Alison Pearce Stevens did a fantastic job of delivering the information in a format that is very reader-friendly. For example, the book addresses numerous advanced scientific topics and analyses; however, it does so in a way that is easy to understand, offering simple descriptions and several very relatable analogies throughout. The pacing of the story was also impeccable, providing enough information to inform and intrigue the reader without overwhelming them. This is a tricky balance to strike when writing about such intellectual topics, and Stevens struck the perfect balance in this book. In fact, it reads more like a detective story than a true historical account. Overall, I really enjoyed Rhinos in Nebraska, and I would highly recommend it to both children and adult readers, especially those with an interest in history, science, and/or paleontology.

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Rhinos in Nebraska was a fascinating read as I have lived in Nebraska my whole life and had only heard of the Ashfall Fossil Beds. Now I am inspired to take my family on a visit. Rhinos in Nebraska was easy to follow yet filled with so many facts and pieces of historical information that helped me visualize the story of the ancient animals and what transpired so many years ago. The process of uncovering the bones and the patience it took to do so over a period of years is incredible. There is something in this book for readers of all ages whether one has an interest in history, weather events, digging for treasure, or just learning about the mystery of the land we all live on day to day. It fosters curiosity and wonder. I would highly recommend this book to parents and teachers who interact with middle grade children. -Mary Beth Rice, parent and school volunteer

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Rhinos in NEBRASKA is a science book that reads like an adventure novel! It’s fast paced and fascinating!

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A big thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for the ARC. I am voluntarily reviewing this book. This is a children's nonfiction book. This book explains the phenomena of the Ashfall Fossil Beds with over 200 preserved fossils. I enjoyed the book, the explanations were good. The only thing I wish was for more and better photographs. Some of the graphics were great, just wish there were more and in color. It might be a little long for an introduction. Still well done. 4 stars

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I loved this little book!

As a Nebraskan this was an absolutely delightful read. A wonderful and engaging look at the hidden gems that can be found in the most unlikely of places.

I thought the author did an amazing job at striking the perfect cord for young readers. The material was not too dense, the facts were wonderfully told through a narrative story that was easy to follow and understand. Perfect for school projects, I can see this being a wonderful addition to any public or school library's nonfiction collection.

Five full stars from this Nebraskan!

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This is the story of how fossils were found in a part of Nebraska. The illustrations make you feel like you are right there in the story. This is for anyone who likes fossils and learning about them.

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