The first paragraph of the introduction states “one thing must be clear from the start: this is a work of fiction.” The author proceeds to explain that they have used the latest paleontological findings as jumping-off points for speculation. The book includes a brief, yet detailed, introduction to the field of paleontology. The book presents 56 dinosaurs divided into four chapters – one for each period (Triassic, Jurassic, early and mid-cretaceous, and late cretaceous period). The author includes a one page instruction on how to use the field guide, and emphasizes again that this book is a work of fiction. The book has a useful glossary and an index. Each particular dinosaur page has a number of small black-and-white sketches and vividly dramatic, brilliantly colored paintings as well. Each page has the name of the dinosaur, a description, the size of the dinosaurs, a section of distinguished features, and a section regarding habit and habitats. A great book, but I am not sure I would catalog as non-fiction. ( )