Roar Turns on The Moon, The True Story of My Pet Dinosaur

Mr. Fitzy is an early elementary art teacher in Chicago who shares the joy of creating artwork while introducing young children to Chicago history and culture. This book tells the origin story of his dinosaur, Roar, who is ultimately featured in a large painting by Mr. Fitzy alongside scenes from Chicago’s past and its many cultural influences and will suit seven-year-olds and up.

The artwork of this very long picture book is bright and vivid, with a folkloric feel reminiscent of Faith Ringgold’s work in Tar Beach. The information about Chicago history and culture is interesting, though young readers with no connection to the city may have difficulty accessing some of its references. The book could serve as a useful mentor text for art teachers who want to introduce large-scale painting to young students.

The challenges of the book as a read-aloud are in its bifurcation and length. Two strands—the origin story of Roar and the creation of the large painting—do not always feel fully integrated. Once the story turns to the painting storyline, Roar largely recedes from the narrative other than inclusion in the finished artwork. Readers may long to know a more developed Roar, not only to strengthen their connection to the hero, but to allow Roar opportunities to visit the places and experience the elements of Chicago history depicted in the painting. Alternatively, dividing the material into two parts—volume one as Roar’s origin story and volume two as the compelling story of the mural—would offer each narrative more room to blossom while making the book more manageable for its intended young audience. As it is, it’s a snug fit that will be still suitable for that “one more read” children love.