Dinomania - A Short Review

Most people enjoy a good work of fiction, and this book is no exception if encountered with that expectation in mind. Unfortunately, the author attempted to write more of a sociological commentary on our relationship with dinosaurs. Most of the book addresses the Western perspective on dinosaurs, but there are sections which show global development.

Where Boria does well is inviting the reader to re-imagine our relationship with dinosaurs in such way that are not just over-commercialized kitsch.  He also invites the reader to view dinosaurs through different historical-cultural lenses which show up most readily in artistic renderings of dinosaurs from the last two hundred years.  Prominently, the Crystal Palace dinosaurs show how Imperial Britain viewed dinosaurs as an extension of her own place in the world.

There are a few areas where to book fails. It is obviously influenced by post-modern constructive views which leave you wondering what exactly a dinosaur actually is without ever answering the question. One of the most confusing and hair-brained chapters associates dinosaurs with modern totems. Although there are some relevant and helpful thoughts about our relationship to death and the world, this section falls flat as it attempts to articulate our relationship with these creatures of old.

Much more could be said about this book, but I'm not sure it is worth the time. I came in with high hopes, and it was easy reading. However, there were entire sections which were entirely muddled and unclear. Probably the best thing I realized while reading this book is that there may not be a good reason to associate certain dinosaurs with other species. Even this could have been communicated more clearly and effectively though.

If you need a filler for the airplane or lazy afternoons to take a nap with, then I would recommend this book. The pictures are great. Otherwise, find a better book to avoid the over-commercialization and kitsch of our favorite extinct species.