Magic Tree House #1: Dinosaurs Before Dark - The Ultimate Adventure Story for Young Readers

What Makes Dinosaurs Before Dark So Special?

The first book in Mary Pope Osborne's beloved Magic Tree House series, "Dinosaurs Before Dark," has captivated young readers for over 30 years! This magical adventure story follows siblings Jack and Annie as they discover a mysterious treehouse filled with books that can transport them through time.

Meet Jack and Annie: The Perfect Adventure Team

Jack - The Careful Note-Taker

Eight-year-old Jack is the cautious older brother who loves to research and take notes. He carries a notebook everywhere and approaches their dinosaur adventure like a true scientist, writing down everything he observes about the prehistoric creatures they encounter.

Annie - The Brave Explorer

Seven-year-old Annie is fearless and full of curiosity. She's always ready to explore new places and make friends with the dinosaurs they meet. Her courage often saves the day and helps her brother learn to embrace adventure!

The Amazing Dinosaur Adventure

When Jack and Annie climb into the magical treehouse, they discover books about different places and times. Jack opens a book about dinosaurs and wishes he could see a real Pteranodon. Suddenly, his wish comes true! The treehouse spins wildly and transports them 65 million years back in time to the Cretaceous period.

Incredible Dinosaurs They Meet

• Pteranodon: A friendly flying dinosaur with soft, fuzzy skin that helps Jack escape danger
• Triceratops: A gentle plant-eating dinosaur with three horns that munches flowers peacefully
• Anatosaurus: Protective mother dinosaurs living in colonies with their babies
• Tyrannosaurus Rex: The scary giant predator that creates the most exciting chase scene!

Why Kids Love This Magic Tree House Story

Perfect Reading Level for Growing Readers

At just 68 pages with large, easy-to-read text and exciting illustrations, "Dinosaurs Before Dark" is perfect for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books. The vocabulary is just challenging enough to help kids grow as readers without being overwhelming.

Educational Adventure Learning

Children learn fascinating dinosaur facts while enjoying an exciting story. The book introduces scientific observation through Jack's note-taking and teaches kids about different dinosaur species, their habits, and prehistoric life.

The Mystery of the Golden Medallion

During their prehistoric adventure, Jack discovers a mysterious golden medallion with the letter "M" engraved on it. This magical clue hints that someone else has been using the treehouse for time travel! The medallion becomes an important part of the continuing Magic Tree House mystery that unfolds throughout the series.

Perfect for Bedtime Reading and Independent Readers

Parents love that each chapter is short enough for bedtime reading, taking about 10 minutes per chapter. The exciting but not-too-scary adventure keeps children engaged while the magical elements spark their imagination about history, science, and the power of books.

Great for All Types of Young Readers

Whether your child loves dinosaurs, enjoys fantasy adventures, or is just learning to love reading, "Dinosaurs Before Dark" offers something special. The book has been particularly praised by parents of children with autism and other learning differences for its engaging plot and manageable length.

Start Your Child's Reading Adventure Today

With 28 books in the original Magic Tree House series and even more in the Merlin Missions, "Dinosaurs Before Dark" opens the door to countless adventures through time and around the world. From ancient Egypt to medieval castles, from the Amazon rainforest to the moon, Jack and Annie's travels will keep your young reader excited about books for years to come!

Ready to begin this magical reading journey? Pick up "Magic Tree House #1: Dinosaurs Before Dark" today and watch your child discover the joy of reading through time-traveling adventures that blend education, imagination, and pure fun!