Finchosaurus

Gail Donovan is the author of the middle-grade novels The Waffler, What’s Bugging Bailey Blecker?, and In Memory of Gorfman T. Frog, which was named a New York Public Library 100 Books for Reading and Sharing. She is also an author for the Rainbow Fish & Friends picture book series based on the bestselling books of Marcus Pfister. Donovan, who was born and raised in Connecticut, lives in Maine with her husband and two daughters, where, in addition to writing children’s books, she is a library assistant at the Portland Public Library.

Author photo by Tom Bell.

"An amusing, empowering tale that should appeal especially to middle schoolers with abundant energy." —Kirkus Reviews

 

"Finch, refreshingly, is wholly himself. He is not kind because he thinks he has to be, but because he wants to be. He enjoys his own interests and doesn’t understand why anyone wouldn’t like the same things. There are lessons at work here—to be kind; to help if you can––but the book doesn’t preach. Messages are subtly woven in to Finch’s fun story. The mystery of Finchosaurus keeps the plot moving, but the delightful characters and events are what make the story truly enjoyable."––Foreword Reviews

 

"... perfect for young readers, especially those who don’t mind getting their hands dirty in the spirit of adventure.” —Erik Ofgang, Connecticut Magazine

 

"Donovan’s realistic fiction for middle-graders (and adults, too) explores the confusing complexities in the lives of 10-year-old boys and girls. This charming story has laughter, suspense and tenderness, as well as lessons about friendship, problem-solving and dinosaurs."
––Bill Bushnell, Central Maine Newspapers

 

“There’s a lot of humor here, and an important message for kids. I suggest that you buy a couple copies, and donate one to your library and one to your school. It’s my hope that every Maine middle-schooler will read and learn from this story.”
––George Smith,  georgesmithmaine.com

 

"'Finchosaurus' is a funny, sweet and well-paced middle-grade novel in which author Gail Donovan once again draws on her intimate knowledge of elementary school to create an environment and story kids can relate to. [. . .] the author, who works at the Portland Public Library, definitely has a good understanding of the world of the fifth-grader and a deft and humorous way of bringing it to life."
––Amy MacDonald, Maine Sunday Telegram