If the Dinosaurs Came Back
by Bernard Most
Voyager Books 1984
Great fit for 2nd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- imagination
- dinosaurs
- humor
- city life
- problem-solving
- community helpers
- creativity
About this book
This playful picture book imagines what life would be like if dinosaurs returned to help out in a modern city. Each page pairs bold, friendly illustrations with simple sentences that spark big ideas—dinosaurs fixing roads, carrying people, and making everyday jobs exciting. It’s a fun read‑aloud for preschoolers and an inviting choice for emerging readers. Perfect for dinosaur fans who love to wonder, "What if?"
Setting: a modern city imagined with dinosaurs living among people
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is If the Dinosaurs Came Back right for my child?
Yes — If the Dinosaurs Came Back is a great fit for 2nd grade. The reading level is AR 2.1, which is typical for 2nd grade. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 5–9 (K–3rd grade). Themes include imagination, dinosaurs, humor.
How long does it take to read If the Dinosaurs Came Back?
At a typical 2nd grade reading pace, If the Dinosaurs Came Back takes around 2m to finish. The book has 220 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does If the Dinosaurs Came Back have an AR quiz?
Yes — If the Dinosaurs Came Back has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is If the Dinosaurs Came Back?
If the Dinosaurs Came Back has an AR reading level of 2.1, which places it at a 2nd grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.