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A Short Book Review
May
2023
By Fr. Abram Abdelmalek

The Lost Dinosaurs of Egypt

The Astonishing and Unlikely True Story of One of the Twentieth Century's Greatest Paleontological Discoveries

by William Nothdurft and Josh Smith
2002-09-12
The Lost Dinosaurs of Egypt
The Lost Dinosaurs of Egypt

The Lost Dinosaurs of Egypt" by William Nothdurft and Josh Smith comes in 240 pages with so many beautiful photos and illustrations. It is a captivating story telling book of the found and lost dinosaur fossils in Egypt during the early twentieth century and how politics and World War I affected the exploration endeavor at the time.
The authors skillfully combine scientific research with engaging storytelling to take readers on a thrilling journey into the world of paleontology, history, and politics.
Stromer, who was a renowned paleontologist his life spanned through the past two centuries, with his team, made stunning discoveries of dinosaur fossils under the vast sands that cover the Western Desert of Egypt. The authors delve into the fascinating history of the expeditions, the challenges faced by him and his team, and other scientists, and the significance of the findings in expanding the understanding of the claimed dinosaur evolution.
The book not only focuses on the scientific aspects but also brings to life the adventurous spirit and perseverance of the explorers. It paints a vivid picture of the harsh conditions of the desert and the excitement of unearthing ancient fossils.
The book highlights the detailed exploration of the dinosaur species found in Egypt, including the iconic and fearsome Spinosaurus, which was later named the largest land predator to have ever existed. The authors delve, from their secular point of view, into the characteristics, behaviors, and evolutionary significance of these prehistoric creatures, offering an interesting glimpse into the world of dinosaurs.
The stunning illustrations and photographs that enhance the visual experience. These visual aids help to bring the extinct creatures to life and showcase the meticulous scientific work and techniques of paleontologists in reconstructing their appearance.
While the book primarily focuses on the historical expeditions and the fascinating stories behind the discoveries, it also provides a solid foundation of scientific knowledge. The authors explain key concepts in paleontology, making the subject accessible to readers with varying levels of familiarity with the field. They strike a balance between scientific information and storytelling.As the book focuses more on the historical context and the expeditions themselves, rather than providing in-depth scientific analysis, this may not satisfy people who are after the science of vertebrate paleontology.
In summary, "The Lost Dinosaurs of Egypt" is an engaging and informative read that brings the wonders of ancient Egypt and its dinosaur fossils to life. It serves as a testament to the importance of scientific exploration and the ongoing quest to unravel the mysteries of our prehistoric past. It also furnishes some grounds to resolve conflicts between science and politics, science and patriotism, and the destruction that wars bring to people and science.

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