You Can't Count on Dinosaurs! - Author Philip Ardagh

Think you're ready to count to ten? Not so fast—there’s a mischievous T-Rex on the loose! You Can’t Count on Dinosaurs! is a hilariously chaotic counting adventure where numbers disappear as fast as dinosaurs do! One moment there are three, then... oops! Someone’s missing—and Rex looks suspiciously full.

Written by award-winning author Philip Ardagh and illustrated by Elissa Elwick, this 32-page paperback turns a simple counting book into a laugh-out-loud prehistoric romp. With bold illustrations, cheeky dialogue, and an unexpected twist on every page, it’s a guaranteed favourite for kids aged 3–6 and a hit in early years classrooms.

Why we, and schools, like it:

• Engages through humour – Kids love spotting which dino has vanished (and who's to blame!).
• Supports early numeracy – A clever way to practise counting with a funny twist.
• Great for group reading – Its interactive style and silly storyline make it perfect for read-aloud sessions.