T. Veg: The Story of a Carrot-Crunching Dinosaur

PreS-Gr 2—Reginald T. Rex is not your average dinosaur. Unlike his carnivorous counterparts, Reginald prefers a vegetarian diet. His unusual palate makes him the object of unwanted ridicule. Instead of referring to him as a T. Rex, his dinosaur friends call him T. Veg. Constant mockery from friends and family makes Reginald feel as though he doesn't belong. Believing himself to be an outsider, he leaves home in search of acceptance among other dinosaurs with similar eating habits. However, this venture proves futile. Reginald later returns home in a dramatic ending that demonstrates just how strong and unique he truly is. Noteworthy is the author's attempt at making the consumption of vegetables seem fun. Strong themes about diversity and daring to be different are reinforced as well. Rhyming patterns are inconsistent throughout, and some wording feels forced, but the unique kaleidoscope of illustrations, which effectively convey the story's major themes, compensate for many of the book's flaws.