What This Book Is About
Rex was once the undisputed king of the dinosaurs. Then a pesky Ice Age came along and froze him solid in a glacier. When he wakes up 65 million years later, the world has changed just a little bit—humans are everywhere, cars fill the streets, and if anyone discovers a living dinosaur, Rex will end up in a zoo. Or worse, a museum.
Luckily, Rex is rescued by Bigfoot, who has been living among humans undetected for years. Bigfoot introduces Rex to his crew of legendary creatures (all hiding in plain sight) and teaches him the basics of blending in: wear a trench coat, learn to use a phone, and whatever you do, don't eat anyone. The only problem? Rex still needs to get a job. What follows is a hilarious series of misadventures as a seven-ton T-Rex tries to fit into the modern workplace—from fast food to office work—with predictably chaotic results. Written and illustrated by Lollies Prize winner Elys Dolan, this book is packed with comic-strip panels, sight gags, and the kind of silly humour that makes kids laugh out loud on every page.
Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.
Why UWC Chose This Book
Humour is one of the most effective tools for building reading motivation, and Rex delivers laughs on every single page. For Grade 3 students who are still developing their reading stamina, a genuinely funny book is the difference between putting it down after two pages and devouring it in one sitting. The comic-strip format and abundant illustrations also support visual learners and make the 192 pages feel much shorter than they are.
Beneath the comedy, Rex's story carries a theme that resonates strongly in UWC's international community: what it feels like to be a stranger in a strange world. Rex must learn new customs, adapt to unfamiliar rules, and find his place in a society that wasn't built for him—an experience many international school students know firsthand. The book treats difference with warmth and humour rather than anxiety, which is exactly the tone UWC aims for.
Reading Level Guide
Building reading foundations? Start with picture books and simple labeled stories.
Perfect difficulty. Engaging for early independent readers. The comic-strip illustrations carry meaning alongside the text.
An easy, comfortable read. Good for building speed and enjoying every joke.
Other UWC Recommended Books for This Grade
Not sure if this book is right for your child? Take our free English assessment to find their CEFR level, then choose books that match.