Grannysaurus Rex

When I had the idea of a granny turning into a dinosaur, I said to my wife, Tamsin: ‘Kids love dinosaurs, grannies buy picture books … this idea is seriously worth a million dollars’. As it turned out, it was worth $986,675 less than that.

Nevertheless, Granny was my first published book and therefore will always hold a treasured place for me.

‘She rampaged on public transport. She rampaged in a shop specialising in china and other breakables’.

What’s happened to Granny? Why has she grown those big teeth and sharp claws and why is she on the rampage?

“Grannysaurus Rex is a plot driven picture book, about a boy who spends the afternoon with his scooter riding, super cool Grandma. Unfortunately, she eats too many lollies and turns into Grannysaurus Rex. What follows is a Grannysaurus rampage through the streets of town. The illustrations are easy to look at and has a humorous subtext. The cappuccino drinking triceratops was a highlight. Ages 4 and up.” - Reading Time Vol 48, No 4

“Sweets and dinosaurs are a sure fire way to grab the attention of any small child. In his first picture book, Wilson manages to combine them to create a very funny tale... Cornish's illustrations complement the story perfectly, filling the pages with big bold colour.” - Amanda Holohan, Sun Herald, 27/2/05

“The pictures look almost like real dinosaurs. Full of adventure, this book is great to read aloud and has a reassuring ending. ” - Whyalla News 7/2/05

“A very groovy granny who turns into a dinosaur.” - Laurine Croasdale, 666 ABC Canberra, 15/12/04

“An amorality about eating too many lollies. This hardback book appeals on many counts. The protagonists are allowed to eat as many sweets as they want. The kid gets to ride on a dinosaur and the drawings are cheerfully fearsome. Dino spotters will also have fun searching out dinosaurs both real and imaginary.” - Dani Valent, Good Weekend, 6/11/04

Omnibus Books, 2004