Dactyl Hill Squad (Dactyl Hill Squad, #1)

by Daniel José Older

[Beth C.]

Ok, I really liked this book. It's got a great blend of good characters, action and adventure, and history (alternative though it may be with the dinosaurs). I honestly wasn't sure about this whole plan, simply because...well...dinosaurs. During the Civil War. I mean...really?! But I ended up very much enjoying the story *and* the dinos, and I think it would be a great supplement to lessons about the Civil War, as long as it is made clear (possibly quite often) that this *is* a work of fiction - including the timing of the dinosaurs.

I do also like that the author took the time to write some explanations in the back about who/what/when are figments of his imagination, or based on reality, or an actual piece of history. Definitely would be great for the lesson supplement as well, as there are resources listed that students could look up.

As I said - I wasn't sure what I was going to think of this, but it turns out I really liked it and I will be looking forward to book two. There was an ending to this one, no cliffhangers - but also definitely saying goodbye to the events in this book and moving on to more. Recommended for sure!