Brief descriptions and reviews of Patrick O'Brien's books
For more information on these books, go to www.PatrickOBrienBooks.com.
Sabertooth
Sabertooths were big prehistoric cats with enormous curved teeth. These cats died of ten-thousand years ago, but scientists continue to find their giant fangs. "O’Brien’s captivating illustrations, exciting facts, and kidfriendly, comics-inspired design will thrill young adventurers." - ages 5-10
Gigantic!
Have fun comparing ancient dinosaurs with things from modern life in order to see just how big these ancient beasts really were. School Library Journal says, "The simplicity of the text and the clarity of the examples will make this book popular with even the youngest dinosaur fans." - ages 3-6
Megatooth
An exciting look at the giant prehistoric shark that was even bigger than Tyrannosaurus rex. Kirkus Reviews says "...laden with enormous kid appeal that will make this book sail off the shelves," and School Library Journal says ..."sure to be a hit with young dinosaur fans." - ages 4-8
Captain Raptor and the Space Pirates
School Library Journal said of this book, "Fans of Captain Raptor and the Moon Mystery will welcome this new adventure and clamor for more... This graphic novel comes alive with O’Brien’s watercolor and gouache illustrations. The action moves quickly in small frames dense with realistic dinosaurs in armor and the inner workings of spaceships. Dramatic chase and battle scenes are depicted in full-page illustrations or full-bleed spreads...Few readers–reluctant or otherwise–will be able to resist this clever mix of dinosaurs, pirates, and science fiction."
The Mutiny on the Bounty
The epic tale of the mutiny on the British ship Bounty has fascinated readers for more than 200 years and has inspired four movies. Now, Patrick O’Brien has retold this true story for young readers. In 1788, the Bounty sailed from England to the island of Tahiti, legendary for its charming people and its natural beauty. The strains of the voyage and the allure of Tahiti set the stage for betrayal, hardships, and mutiny. Kirkus Reviews said "O'Brien finds a ready subject for his talents here. An adventuresome tale, well told." - ages 6 and up
Captain Raptor and the Moon Mystery (written by Kevin O’Malley)
The Washington Post said that Captain Raptor is "what most small boys would agree is the perfect book…And the art is just plain beautiful." School Library Journal described it as "An action-packed science-fiction romp starring a cast of dinosaur characters…This story blends eye-catching layout with a quick-moving plot, tongue-in-cheek humor, and an imaginative setting. The dinosaurs, who wear funky-looking space gear and have an endless supply of gadgets, are a blast… Sci-fi fans and dinophiles will eat this book up, and it might also capture the interest of reluctant readers."- ages 4 and up
Fantastic Flights
The stories of history's most famous planes and rockets. Chuck Yeager called this book "an excellent portrayal of the history of aviation" and astronaut Bob Crippen said, "for any young person interested in flight, this book is a must read." Airplane inventor Paul MacCready said "Fantastic Flights is an amazing book - succinct, informative, and stimulating." - ages 6-10
The Great Ships
Beautiful paintings accompany the stories of the most famous ships of history, including a Viking ship, the Mayflower, Columbus’ ships, the Bounty, and the Titanic. School Library Journal called it "a captivating and beautiful volume for any collection," and Booklist called it "a visual feast." Kirkus Reviews said, "Children with even a hint of the sea in the blood will pore wide-eyed over this dramatic album of ship paintings." - ages 6-10
Duel of the Ironclads
The dramatic story of the Civil War battle between the Monitor and the Merrimack that changed naval warfare forever. Kirkus Reviews says, "O'Brien's clear and lively writing, dramatic illustrations and handsome, large format design combine to make an appealing volume. A sure-fire winner for young Civil War buffs." - ages 6-10
The Making of a Knight
This lightly fictionalized tale follows a young boy’s life in a castle and shows how he is trained through the years to become a knight. Kirkus Reviews says, "An excellent primer for all those eager to be a knight, even if they are 500 years too late... An excellent story, full of information, and fine oil paintings." Publishers Weekly says, "O'Brien crafts an intriguing visual mix...a robust blend of pageantry, derring-do, and a wee bit of romance." - ages 5-10
Steam, Smoke, and Steel
A boy looks back through time, giving a guided tour of his family’s history on the railroad and thereby telling the story of the history of trains. Booklist calls it "A handsome book that offers young American train buffs a glimpse of history and a sense of family." - ages 6-10
Mammoth
The story of the great hairy elephants of ancient times told in a fun way with dramatic pictures. Booklist calls it "..handsome and informative." - ages 5-9
The Hindenburg
The story of the majestic airship and the spectacular disaster that ended the era of fabulous ships of the air. Kirkus Reviews said "compellingly well-told, beautifully illustrated, and skillfully designed, this is a work that will find a wide audience." and The New York Times said "spectacular drawings and a wealth of historical detail." - ages 6-10