More than sixty million years before the arrival of man dinosaurs were the rulers of the Earth. A natural catastrophe was probably responsible for their sudden extinction. Today, they are brought back to life in the pages of this scientifically accurate and very readable book, in true “National Geographic” style. With highly effective illustrated tables, photographs taken in the most important paleontological museums, technical charts, three-dimensional maps and easy-to-read commentaries, this volume is a compendium of the most current information regarding these gigantic prehistoric reptiles.

The series written and illustrated by Michael Salmon goes on where we find the popular book, Il Mostro, which transports children from 6 to 9 years of age to faraway and weird places where the main characters are outlandish but very much humanized creatures. The protagonist of this book is a small tyrannosaurs, Rex, who, unlike his peers, prefers cooking rather than soccer or basket ball and dreams of becoming a great chef. Shortly he becomes famous for his doughnuts and, when school is over, decides to try “the great leap” going to the Great City where, after thousands of misadventures, he meets a pretty “she-dinosaur” who helps him and, after having tasted his fantastic sweets, remains totally won-over by Rex’s ability. The great idea is thus born: opening a doughnut shop together. After some days of preparation the shop is ready and its launch is a success. Rex’s dream has finally come true! The story is simple and promotes a positive message: that of believing in one’s own dreams and of never giving up. All this is accompanied by cute inserts and die-cut which turn the book also into a game. Every page contains doors to open, flaps to move, windows which take you back to following pages for a read which, besides being absorbing, is also dynamic and interactive.

Observe the birds, learn their physical and biological characteristics, and appreciate the melody of their singing and the agility of their flight. The dream of those who love our feathered friends or who are fascinated by the infinite number of ornithological species populating the planet is to possess the information necessary to become an expert. This encyclopedia is a practical guide to the world of birds: in detail, variety by variety, the author describes all the most common species, providing for each one an exhaustive technical card describing characteristics, lifestyle, and appearance, accompanied by a photograph allowing for accurate identification. Conceived as an act of love toward the creature that embodies the romantic dream of flying, the Encyclopedia of Birds is an indispensable practical manual for all those intending to raise them or to make bird watching their favorite hobby.

The Encyclopedia of Aviary Birds takes readers on a voyage of discovery of the immense wealth of birds to bless our world. The more than 670 bird species portrayed in this splendid illustrated book, are only a small part of the total but this carefully chosen selection gives readers a good idea about the classification of bird species and their geographical diffusion. The characteristics of each bird family is given in individual chapters along with where they are found on the various continents and seas. The particular area of each bird species is indicated by an abbreviation given after its scientific and local names so the reader is able to immediately place the bird in the photo. A description of the bird’s behavior, nesting habits, wintering locations and migratory routes along with other particulars about the bird species, accompanies each photo. The Encyclopedia of Aviary Birds is a delightful read for all lovers of nature seeking to learn more about the enormous number of bird species in the world encountered at home or during travel. Magnificent photos show birds in different situations including while nesting, flying and feeding. They are portrayed in their natural habitat and close-up photos highlight their main characteristics. Some photos are about the well-known city birds, widespread throughout the world, while others show rare birds only found in specific areas which are extremely difficult to photograph.

For millennia dogs have been part of family-life, along with oxen used in agriculture and horses harnessed for transport. Dogs, however, are the most loved four-legged animals, often spoilt and pampered. They have always been man’s favourite, a friend for children and a faithful companion for the elderly. Dogs can act as bodyguards for the weak and as guides for the blind. They can save lives and can help hunters track prey. This volume offers many hints about how to look after a dog, its nutritional needs, how it can adapt to certain situations (e.g., in a family with children), and how to train different breeds.

Horses are amazing animals; in ancient mythology they were associated with the gods because of their beauty and elegance. Horses have accompanied man on his long journey towards civilization. This encyclopaedia is invaluable for those who would like to own a horse and for those who just want to find out more about them. The different breeds are systematically classified, and each chapter deals with a particular aspect of horses and their lives, making it a rewarding volume to consult.

Cats have always held a place of importance in the collective imagination. They are the protagonists of fairy-tales, songs, ads and films. They possess certain human qualities, such as tenderness, discretion and elegance. Though often a bit wild and carefree, these born wanderers, but they are also very domesticated and "home-lovers". They are the perfect companion for those who can appreciate both their detached attitude, independent spirit and affectionate nature. Often, however, when choosing a cat people judge only its looks, without taking into consideration character and care needs. This encyclopaedia describes the most important breeds, both the well known and the lesser known ones. Scientifically–based commentaries and photographs illustrate the characteristics and habits of each breed, creating a practical guide. This volume is not only for those who already have a cat or those who would like to get one: it is also a act of homage towards these feline friends, companions of many adventures.

A "tropical aquarium" can be more than just an impressive ornament in the home: if the fish feel at ease in their aquatic world and begin to act naturally an aquarium can become not only a living picture but a fascinating object of study. However, in order to transform an aquarium and its inhabitants into a perfect marine microcosm the following questions must be carefully answered: Which fish should you choose for your aquarium? What characteristics should the room housing your aquarium have? Which fish like to live on their own and which ones like to live with other species? Which fish are aggressive and which ones are not so? Leafing through the pages of this encyclopaedia you can find out all about fish-breeding and keeping an aquarium. It gives all the necessary information for you to successfully embark on a new adventure. The volume includes practical information, biological charts and detailed illustrations, creating an invaluable guide for fish-lovers and professionals in the field. It is a treasure-chest of information for those who wish to re-create a corner of the marvelous underwater world in their own home.

Chickens were once kept only by farmers and country dwellers, but today these birds are increasingly common in the gardens of city homes. The little-known lore of chickens fascinates: how many of us know that some hens lay dark, almost reddish, or even blue, eggs? Or that some dwarf varieties, almost the size of a quail, can be easily kept in a small cage on an apartment balcony? This book, which deals with the whole range of chicken management, is aimed particularly at readers with little knowledge of poultry farming, even if they already own a few chickens. The text and illustrations offer practical information on food, care, breeding, egg-laying and the type of housing birds require for healthy living. It also details the anatomy of the chicken, its common diseases and disorders, and also takes a general look at the color varieties of plumage. The book includes a section on the various breeds, and details the most important characteristics for breeders. It takes a look at chickens’ historical origins, their evolution and color varieties. Both the general chapters and those dedicated to specific breeds feature many eye-catching color photographs of the relevant birds. A veritable encyclopedia in its scope, this volume is essential for newcomers who wish to start breeding chickens, while those who already own the birds will find it a mine of practical information, reflecting the most recent research on our source of eggs – and often – of protein.

The fascinating and practical Encyclopedia of House Plants is a complete reference text accompanied by hundreds of splendid color photos of the plants which are ideal for the indoors, greenhouses or winter gardens. Each plant is extensively portrayed with a photograph for reference and with advice about its planting and care. Plants that thrive in a similar environment are grouped together to help the reader choose the most appropriate plant for his or her needs. The exhaustive index includes the plant’s common name and its Latin name to facilitate search. This encyclopedia is a gold mine of information and will be of great use to both experts and beginners.