Dino Mode Activated!

Gr 3-5–This humorous chapter book follows Oleg and his friends on what is supposed to be a normal camping trip. Things quickly spiral into chaos when Oleg brings along his brand-new camera, one that is definitely special. The camera’s in “Dino-Mode” and dinosaurs suddenly begin appearing all around the campsite, turning a quiet outdoor adventure into a laugh-out-loud prehistoric mess. The story’s biggest strength is its humor. From dinosaurs stomping through camp to Oleg’s nonstop commentary, the book is packed with silly moments that will strongly appeal to readers. The outrageous situations and fast-moving plot, supported throughout by gray scale artwork reminiscent of Roblox, make it an ­entertaining read, especially for kids who enjoy absurd adventures and unexpected twists. That said, the writing style can be challenging at times. The narration shifts between first and third person, which may make the story harder to follow for some. This inconsistency can briefly pull readers out of the action, particularly those who prefer a more straightforward storytelling style. Where the book truly shines is in its neurodiverse representation. Oleg, who is dyslexic, is portrayed as funny, confident, and capable. While he can be daft and repetitive, his ­dyslexia is never treated as a limitation. Rory has ADHD, and his creativity and energy are shown as strengths rather than obstacles.