Unlikely Friends (Diary of a Dinoghost, book 1) by Monica Arnaldo (Scholastic, published August 4, 96 pages, grades 1-3). Cobble is a dinoghost–a brontosaurus who has been a ghost “since the asteroid.” When he can’t remember if this is day 36,599,236,001 or 36,500236,002 of being a ghost, he decides he should start a diary. Good thing, too, because things start to get interesting. He’s been hanging out lately at Kevin’s house, Kevin being a seven-year-old boy who loves to put ketchup on everything. When Kevin adds ketchup to his new goldfish bowl, the fish becomes a ghost as well. Cobble and Bonny begin a tenuous friendship, with Bonny trying to convince Cobble to take her to the ocean. Cobble is reluctant to disturb his well-established routine, but finally he agrees. Without the routine, things get a little…chaotic, but the two new friends persevere, and the last page sees them setting off on their journey.

Another Scholastic Branches series just right for the beginning chapter book audience. It’s a quirky story to say the least, but Cobble and Bonny are an endearing pair, and the diary format with the many cartoon-style illustrations make it a great first chapter book. Look for book 2 in November.

I Used to Be a Dinosaur by Casey Lyall, illustrated by Laurie Keller (Greenwillow Books, 32 pages, ages 4-8). A plucky chicken reminds herself and her fellow hens that, “I used to be a dinosaur.” She recalls past glories of a mighty roar, powerful jaws, and tiny arms (actually, that part is still the same). Life on the farm can seem dull by comparison, but when her chicks hatch, she reminds them of their proud heritage and that they can choose to be as strong as their ancestors.

While the concept of evolution may be a bit over the heads of the intended audience, they’ll enjoy the colorful cartoon-style illustrations featuring dinosaurs, the lively rhyming text, and the message of being your best self. This would pair well with Lena the Chicken.