Life Lessons from Dinosaurs: Wisdom and Wit from the World of Dinotopia

A lighthearted collection of homespun wisdom from dinosaurs, featuring beautifully painted scenes from the New York Times bestselling Dinotopia books by author James Gurney.

As the original dominant species on planet Earth, what advice might dinosaurs have for another species on the possible verge of extinction? And who better than to bring language to tyrant lizards than James Gurney, whose Dinotopia books have sold millions of copies over the last three decades?

Gurney, a painter, instructor, and storyteller, adds a philosopher’s touch to this gift book perfect for anyone looking to a bygone era for a bit of life advice and perspective. You’ll marvel at these Triassic truisms, Jurassic aphorisms, and Mesazoic meditations.

Readers are encouraged to “shake the ground a little,” “be fearless but prepared,” “grow big, but don’t grow up,” “observe, listen, and learn,” and “leave interesting tracks for those who follow after.” Other lessons celebrate friendship, patience, generosity, adaptability, creativity, helping others, and keeping life’s small worries in perspective.

• James Gurney pairs the breathtaking fantasy artwork of his beloved dinosaur civilization with short, memorable lessons about how to live, grow, and connect with others.
• Humorous wisdom such as “If you have a small brain, make sure you have a big heart” sits alongside thoughtful messages about kindness, friendship, generosity, courage, and resilience.
• Beautiful full-page paintings feature dinosaurs and humans exploring cities, mountains, forests, festivals, laboratories, and other imaginative scenes from Gurney’s fantasy world.
• Encourages readers to embrace change, stay curious, help others, enjoy the present, use their imagination, and leave a meaningful legacy.
• A unique gift for Dinotopia fans, fantasy-art collectors, dinosaur enthusiasts, graduates, teachers, retirees, coworkers, and anyone in various stages of life who enjoys clever, uplifting humor.