Dinosaur Encore

Here the delicate art of torn tissue collages paradoxically captures the ferocity, thunder and surprising swiftness of ancient dinosaurs. Bountiful, panoramic illustrations on fold-out flaps engulf a limited text. ``If dinosaurs came back to live with us today'' introduces the comparison of saurian characteristics to those of contemporary billy goats, crocodiles, ostriches and a parade of familiar animals. (The juxtaposition of pets and barnyard animals with the extravagant dinosaurs will tickle the youngest readers.) While this sound teaching technique will help youngsters to recognize and remember dinosaur types, the book's chief attraction is its art. Mullins's multi-textured compositions educe a lively, three-dimensional quality emphasizing the motion and majesty of these ever-intriguing creatures. Ages 3-7. (Mar.)