OK. Here are some suggestions (for ages 9-12):
"Superguides: Martial Arts," by David Mitchell, DK Publishing, 2000
"The Martial Arts Book," by Laura Scandiffo, Annick, 2003. This particular one may suit your son's interest in the culture because it apparently includes an overview of the history and philosophy of the ancient martial arts disciplines.
"The Peaceful Way: A Children's Guide To The Traditions Of The Martial Arts," by Claudio A. Iedwab, Inner Traditions International, 2001
"National Geographic's Dinosaurs," 2001
Fiction suggestions:
"Dinotopia," by James Gurney
"The Shy Stegosaurus of Cricket Creek," by Evelyn Sibley Lampman, Purple House Press, republished in 2001
"Holes," by Louis Sachar, Yearling Books, 2000.
"The Secrets of Droon," by Tony Abbott. This is a fantasy series of kids entering another world where good fights bad, etc. It's for ages 9-12 and easier to read than Harry Potter, etc.
You can find many more ideas at your local library or bookstore. Just tell them what your son's interests are and they will surely find lots of other possible titles. Better yet, bring your son and let him browse around himself.
I don't know if he'll like any of the above, but it's a start, anyway.
Sonja <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />