When James Gurney’s Dinotopia: A Land Apart from Time first appeared in 1992, it was immediately hailed as a fully imagined world of the caliber of J. R. R. Tolkien’s. Gurney’s premise — of an undiscovered island where a race of mystical humans co-exists in harmony with intelligent dinosaurs — has been since reiterated over and over in numerous films and by scores of other writers. Now, Calla Editions brings Gurney’s spectacular artistry to a new generation in this 20th anniversary edition. Digitally re-rendered from the original transparencies, Gurney’s dramatic panoramas of Dinotopia and close-up character studies of its inhabitants — both human and saurian — take on new vitality. And as a tale of high adventure and discovery told as entries and sketches in journal form, Dinotopia presents a shipwrecked visitor’s glimpse into an imagined social order, a culture, and even a cooperative interspecies technology that will satisfy lovers of fantasy and science fiction of all persuasions. This edition includes a new Afterword written by author James Gurney as well as a special section of behind-the-scenes studies and maquettes he used in developing his paintings.
Dinotopia, A Land Apart from Time: 20th Anniversary Edition (Calla Editions)
Dinotopia: A Land Where Dreams Take Flight
Dinotopia, a brainchild of artist and writer James Gurney, is more than just a children’s book; it’s a captivating world-building masterpiece. Imagine a hidden island where humans and dinosaurs coexist in a harmonious society. Gurney’s vibrant illustrations bring this fantastical concept to life, showcasing sprawling cities nestled amidst lush jungles, towering steampunk machinery coexisting with majestic sauropods, and humans riding trained dinosaurs as a mode of transportation.
The story unfolds through the diary entries of Arthur Denison, a Victorian gentleman shipwrecked on the shores of Dinotopia. Along with his son Will, they encounter a civilization unlike anything they’ve ever imagined. Gurney masterfully weaves scientific details about dinosaurs with elements of Victorian culture, creating a believable and captivating world.
A World of Wonder:
The book delves into the various human settlements of Dinotopia, each with its own unique architectural style and focus. From the bustling port city of Waterfall to the serene Skybase perched atop a mesa, readers are treated to a visual feast. The dinosaurs themselves are portrayed not as monstrous beasts, but as intelligent creatures integrated seamlessly into Dinotopian society. We see them pulling plows, serving as mounts, and even participating in cultural events.
A Journey of Discovery:
Arthur and Will’s journey through Dinotopia is one of discovery and adaptation. They learn the language, customs, and history of this extraordinary land. The reader is captivated alongside them, eager to learn more about the societal structures, technological advancements, and the philosophy that allows humans and dinosaurs to thrive together.
Beyond the Adventure:
Dinotopia is more than just an exciting adventure story. It raises questions about the relationship between humans and nature, the power of technology, and the importance of co-existence. The vibrant illustrations and detailed descriptions spark a sense of wonder and inspire readers of all ages to dream of a world where harmony reigns.
A Timeless Classic:
Dinotopia has captivated readers for generations. It’s a book that can be enjoyed by both children and adults, offering a thrilling adventure story alongside a thought-provoking exploration of a fantastical world. Whether you’re a dinosaur enthusiast, a lover of imaginative fiction, or simply appreciate beautiful artwork, Dinotopia is a must-read.
Note: The images in the gallery are for illustrative purposes only and do not necessarily reflect the vision of Dinotopia presented in the book.
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