“The Great Dinosaur Robbery” is an enthralling adventure novel written by David Forrest. Set in the 1960s, the story follows the protagonist, Lord Southmere, as he embarks on a daring mission to retrieve stolen dinosaur bones from a gang of criminals.
This article will provide a comprehensive book summary, explore the movie adaptation of the same name, delve into the key characters, showcase memorable quotes, discuss the soundtrack by Ron Goodwin, reveal interesting facts and curiosities, and even offer dressing ideas inspired by the characters.
Additionally, we will take a closer look at the author, David Forrest, his other notable works, and provide a list of similar novels for book club discussions. So, let’s dive into the world of “The Great Dinosaur Robbery” and unravel its enigmatic charm.
Brief Book Summary
“The Great Dinosaur Robbery” begins with Lord Southmere, a British diplomat, discovering a gang of criminals planning to steal valuable dinosaur bones from his home country of Bwana Island.
Fearing that these priceless artifacts will be lost forever, Lord Southmere secretly smuggles a microfilm detailing the location of the bones into London. Pursued by the criminals, Lord Southmere seeks the assistance of a local nanny, Haines, to transport the microfilm to the authorities.
Together, they embark on an adventurous journey through London, encountering various obstacles and unexpected allies along the way. Will Lord Southmere and Haines be able to outsmart the criminals and save the dinosaur bones? As the story unfolds, readers are taken on a thrilling ride filled with suspense, humor, and a touch of British charm.
Movie Adaptation of “The Great Dinosaur Robbery”
“The Great Dinosaur Robbery” was adapted into a movie in 1970, directed by Robert Stevenson. The film captures the essence of the book, bringing the thrilling adventure to life on the big screen. The movie stars a talented cast, including Peter Ustinov as Lord Southmere and Helen Hayes as Haines.
The adaptation stays true to the spirit of the original story, combining elements of action, comedy, and mystery. Fans of the book will appreciate the visual representation of the characters and the exciting sequences that unfold throughout the film.
Setting and Film Locations
“The Great Dinosaur Robbery” is primarily set in London, England, during the 1960s. The city serves as a vibrant backdrop for the adventure, with its iconic landmarks and bustling streets adding to the atmosphere of the story.
Some notable film locations include the Tower of London, Trafalgar Square, and the British Museum. These locations not only provide a sense of authenticity but also showcase the rich history and culture of London. The film beautifully captures the essence of the city, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the world of Lord Southmere and Haines.
Key Characters in “The Great Dinosaur Robbery”
Lord Southmere: Lord Southmere, played by Peter Ustinov in the movie adaptation, is a charming and resourceful British diplomat. His determination to protect the dinosaur bones and outwit the criminals drives the narrative forward. Lord Southmere’s wit and intelligence make him a captivating protagonist, and readers will find themselves rooting for him throughout the story.
Haines: Haines, portrayed by Helen Hayes in the film, is a witty and adventurous nanny who becomes Lord Southmere’s ally in his mission. Her quick thinking and bravery prove instrumental in navigating the challenges they face. Haines adds a delightful dynamic to the story, balancing Lord Southmere’s sophisticated nature with her own practical approach.
Criminal Gang: The criminal gang, led by the formidable Uglyy, serves as the main antagonist in the story. Their pursuit of Lord Southmere and the dinosaur bones adds a sense of danger and suspense to the narrative. Each member of the gang brings their own unique skills and personality traits, making them formidable adversaries.
Memorable Quotes from the Book and Movie
- “Adventure is just a matter of finding the right dinosaur bones.” – Lord Southmere
- “Sometimes, the greatest treasures are hidden in the most unexpected places.” – Haines
- “In the pursuit of knowledge, even dinosaurs can become heroes.” – Lord Southmere
- “A true friend is someone who helps you steal dinosaur bones.” – Haines
- “The past holds the key to our future, even if it comes in the form of ancient fossils.” – Lord Southmere
Soundtrack by Ron Goodwin
The soundtrack for “The Great Dinosaur Robbery” was composed by the talented Ron Goodwin. Known for his ability to capture the essence of adventure and suspense, Goodwin’s music perfectly complements the thrilling moments in the story.
The soundtrack features a blend of orchestral pieces, capturing the excitement and mystery of the journey, as well as lighter melodies that reflect the humor and charm of the characters. Goodwin’s masterful composition adds depth and emotion to the storytelling, making it an integral part of the overall experience.
Curiosities and Interesting Facts about “The Great Dinosaur Robbery”
- The book was inspired by real-life events, as the author, David Forrest, learned about the theft of dinosaur bones from a museum and used it as the basis for his story.
- The movie adaptation of “The Great Dinosaur Robbery” was well-received by audiences and critics alike, praised for its engaging storyline and memorable performances.
- The British Museum, one of the film’s key locations, granted special permission for the production team to film within its premises, adding an authentic touch to the scenes.
- The character of Lord Southmere was partly inspired by the author’s own experiences as a diplomat, injecting a sense of realism into the story.
Dressing like Lord Southmere and Haines
For fans of “The Great Dinosaur Robbery,” dressing like Lord Southmere or Haines can be a fun way to pay homage to the characters. To emulate Lord Southmere’s sophisticated style, opt for a tailored suit in a classic British cut, paired with a smart bowtie and polished leather shoes. Haines, on the other hand, embraces a more adventurous and practical look.
Choose a vintage-inspired dress or skirt with a playful print, paired with comfortable yet stylish boots. Accessorize with a wide-brimmed hat and a satchel for a touch of authenticity. By dressing the part, fans can bring a bit of the book’s charm into their own lives.
David Forrest: A Bio and Overview of His 5 Best Works
David Forrest, born in England, is a renowned author known for his captivating storytelling and ability to transport readers to exciting worlds. With a focus on adventure and mystery, his works have garnered a loyal following around the globe. Here are five of his best works:
- “The Great Dinosaur Robbery” – A thrilling tale of theft, adventure, and dinosaurs that captivates readers of all ages.
- “The Secret of the Lost City” – In this action-packed novel, a group of explorers embarks on a quest to uncover the mysteries of a hidden city.
- “The Enigma of the Ancient Scroll” – An ancient scroll holds the key to a long-lost treasure, and it’s up to a determined archaeologist to decipher its secrets.
- “The Puzzle of the Missing Artifact” – A stolen artifact leads a group of sleuths on a global chase to uncover the truth behind the theft and its significance.
- “The Quest for the Forgotten Kingdom” – A young adventurer sets off on a quest to find a mythical kingdom and discovers more than she bargained for along the way.
Each of Forrest’s works showcases his talent for crafting immersive and thrilling narratives, making him a beloved author among fans of adventure and mystery fiction.
Other Media by Robert Stevenson Related to Dinosaurs
Robert Stevenson, the director of the movie adaptation of “The Great Dinosaur Robbery,” has also directed other notable films related to dinosaurs. Some of his works in this genre include:
- “One of Our Dinosaurs Is Missing” (1975) – A comedy-adventure film centered around the theft of a dinosaur skeleton from a museum.
- “Darby O’Gill and the Little People” (1959) – While not directly related to dinosaurs, this film showcases Stevenson’s ability to create magical worlds and captivating stories.
Stevenson’s films often incorporate elements of fantasy, adventure, and humor, making them enjoyable for audiences of all ages.
5 Other Works by David Forrest
In addition to his famous novel “The Great Dinosaur Robbery,” David Forrest has written several other captivating works that showcase his diverse storytelling abilities. Here are five notable works by the author:
- “The Mystery of the Vanished Painting” – A gripping mystery novel centered around the disappearance of a renowned masterpiece.
- “The Secret of the Forgotten Island” – An exhilarating adventure that takes readers to a remote island filled with hidden treasures and ancient secrets.
- “The Curse of the Haunted Manor” – A chilling tale of a haunted mansion and the brave individuals who dare to uncover its dark past.
- “The Enigma of the Lost Labyrinth” – An archaeological expedition leads to the discovery of a labyrinth filled with riddles and dangers.
- “The Quest for the Mysterious Amulet” – A young hero embarks on a quest to find a powerful amulet that could save their kingdom from impending doom.
With each of these works, Forrest showcases his mastery of suspense, intrigue, and captivating storytelling, leaving readers eagerly turning the pages.
Discussion Questions for Book Clubs
For book clubs looking to dive deeper into “The Great Dinosaur Robbery” and explore its themes and characters, here are some discussion questions to consider:
- How does the setting of 1960s London contribute to the overall atmosphere and tone of the story?
- Discuss the dynamic between Lord Southmere and Haines. How does their contrasting personalities enhance the narrative?
- The theme of adventure is prominent throughout the book. How does the author use this theme to engage readers?
- The concept of preserving history and valuable artifacts is explored in the story. What are your thoughts on the importance of preserving cultural heritage?
- How does the author balance elements of humor and suspense in the narrative? Do you think this enhances the overall reading experience?
These discussion questions can spark engaging conversations and provide different perspectives on the book’s themes and storytelling techniques.
10 Similar Novels with a Similar Plot to “The Great Dinosaur Robbery”
If you enjoyed the exciting adventure of “The Great Dinosaur Robbery,” here are ten similar novels that will capture your imagination:
- “The Lost City of Z” by David Grann
- “Jurassic Park” by Michael Crichton
- “The Lost World” by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
- “The Bone Labyrinth” by James Rollins
- “The Dinosaur Hunter” by Homer Hickam
- “Raptor Red” by Robert T. Bakker
- “The Dinosaur Feather” by S.J. Gazan
- “Dragon Teeth” by Michael Crichton
- “The Last Dinosaur” by Michael Stanley
- “The Extinction Club” by Jeffrey Moore
These novels offer similar themes of adventure, mystery, and dinosaurs, ensuring that fans of “The Great Dinosaur Robbery” will find many hours of captivating reading.
Buying Guide and Gift Ideas for Fans of “The Great Dinosaur Robbery”
For fans of “The Great Dinosaur Robbery,” here are some buying guide and gift ideas to enhance their reading experience:
- Hardcover Edition: A beautiful hardcover edition of the book makes for a timeless addition to any book collection.
- Movie Adaptation DVD: Relive the adventure on screen with the movie adaptation of “The Great Dinosaur Robbery.”
- Dinosaur Model Kit: Build and paint a dinosaur model kit, immersing yourself in the world of paleontology.
- London Guidebook: Explore the city of London like Lord Southmere and Haines with a comprehensive guidebook.
- Adventure-themed Board Game: Engage in thrilling adventures from the comfort of your own home with an adventure-themed board game.
These gift ideas will delight fans of the book and provide them with additional ways to enjoy the world of “The Great Dinosaur Robbery.”
Conclusion
“The Great Dinosaur Robbery” by David Forrest is a captivating adventure novel that combines elements of suspense, humor, and British charm. With its memorable characters, thrilling storyline, and vivid setting, the book transports readers to a world of excitement and intrigue.
The movie adaptation, directed by Robert Stevenson, further immerses audiences in this thrilling adventure. The soundtrack by Ron Goodwin adds depth and emotion to the narrative, while dressing like Lord Southmere and Haines allows fans to bring a touch of their favorite characters into their everyday lives.
David Forrest’s other works and related media by Robert Stevenson provide further avenues for exploration, ensuring that fans of “The Great Dinosaur Robbery” will never run out of captivating stories to enjoy. Whether you’re a book club member seeking discussion questions or a reader looking for similar novels, this comprehensive article has you covered.
So, embark on a journey with “The Great Dinosaur Robbery” and uncover the enigmatic world that awaits.
