When it comes to books for children, age as well as reading ability play a big part in book selection. By the time young page turners reach the age of 7 they are moving away from early reader chapter books and into the exciting world of junior fiction. Junior fiction is a gateway to unlimited imagination. Books in this genre don’t just allow young readers to follow a story – they become its heroes, racing through alien forests, deciphering ancient puzzles and forging unbreakable bonds with creatures both fierce and friendly. This level of storytelling sparks curiosity, amplifies empathy and cements a lifelong love for reading. Dan Metcalf’s Dino Wars: Rise of the Raptors epitomises this electrifying world, combining pulse-pounding action with hilarious dinosaur banter to create an unforgettable junior fiction experience and a thrilling, exciting adventure.
Dan Metcalf’s Dino Wars series is a collection of 4 adventure books for Junior Readers, age 7-9. Set in a future world where the human population has been driven to the brink of extinction and the world is now ruled by dinosaurs.
Let’s jump forward to the year 3142. Earth, which has been renamed New Earth, is ruled by dinosaurs. Not just ordinary dinosaurs, genetically modified dinosaurs that talk, think and wage epic battles. Humans have been driven to the brink of extinction after losing the great Dino Wars. Now, in the mud-hut village of Bastion, peaceful coexistence between humans and herbivorous dinosaurs like Dag the iguanodon has become the new normal.
When Adam Caine, his inquisitive sister Chloe, and their mischievous pals, twin troublemakers Benji and Tuppence, stumble upon a secret door carved into the rock, they inadvertently awaken HUM3000. HUM3000 is a high-tech computer system that launches the Coda Program, which is primed to recreate a biological weapon that would annihilate all dinosaurs, making then extinct for a second time. But time is against them, with only four weeks to avert disaster, our heroes embark on a globe-spanning quest to collect four Dilotron crystals – a clean energy source capable of deactivating the Coda Program and saving dinosaur-kind once more.
Overall, Dino Wars: Rise of the Raptors is a non-stop, dinosaur-fuelled extravaganza. This exciting adventure is packed with witty dialogue, unexpected twists and pulse-racing action sequences that keep young readers glued to the page. With relatable characters, a richly imagined futuristic world ruled by dinosaurs and humour that appeals to all ages.
The young characters are great and children will be able to identify with them.
- Adam Caine: Brave, resourceful and always ready to explore, Adam leads the charge into unknown dangers.
- Chloe Caine: Smart and steadfast, Chloe balances Adam’s impulsiveness with critical thinking.
- Dag: An iguanodon whose loyalty knows no bounds, Dag’s gentle humour and surprising bravery steal every scene.
- Benji & Tuppence: The dynamic twin duo, masters of mischief and comic relief, whose antics keep readers giggling even in tense moments.
- HUM3000: Equal parts sinister and witty, this AI antagonist raises the stakes with sardonic humour and a relentless drive to wipe out dinosaurs.
The beauty of this action-adventure story for young readers is more than exciting an storytelling. Futuristic technology combines with prehistoric landscapes, crafting environments that feel both familiar and fantastical. From mud-hut villages to Raptor-infested cities, each setting is vividly described, allowing young readers to visualise every jagged cliff and thunderous stomping footstep.
And then there is the visual appeal. Illustrator Aaron Blecha’s black-and-white, comic-style illustrations perfectly complement the high-octane text. Each illustration bursts with energy, capturing pivotal moments – like the twins’ daring escapes and the Raptor pack’s menacing glare. These visuals break up the text in just the right spots, making the reading experience dynamic and accessible for ages 7 and up.
With themes of friendship and teamwork, courage (especially under pressure), responsibility and scientific ethics (exploring the moral complexities of genetic engineering and the technological advancement of AI), this junior fiction gem earns a solid 5 out of 5 T-Rex roars. Whether you’re a dino-obsessed reader or simply love a good sci-fi adventure, this book is destined to become a fast favourite, a surefire catalyst for budding imaginations and a great start to the Dino Wars series.
Rating: 5/5
RRP: £6.99 (Paperback) / £0.99 (Kindle)
For more information, visit danmetcalf.co.uk. Available to buy from Amazon here.
