Product Description

The ultimate quest for the world's most mysterious creatures

The Loch Ness Monster, Bigfoot, the Abominable Snowman -- these are the names of the elusive beasts that have caught the eye and captured the imaginations of people around the world for centuries. Recently, tales of these "monsters" have been corroborated by an increase in sightings, and out of these legends a new science has been born: cryptozoology -- the study of hidden animals.

Cryptozoology A to Z, the first encyclopedia of its kind, contains nearly two hundred entries, including cryptids (the name given to these unusual beasts), new animal finds, and the explorers and scientists who search for them. Loren Coleman, one of the world's leading cryptozoologists, teams up with Jerome Clark, editor and author of several encyclopedias, to provide these definitive descriptions and many never-before-published drawings and photographs from eyewitnesses' detailed accounts. Full of insights into the methods of these scientists, exciting tales of discovery, and the history and evolution of this field, Cryptozoology A to Z is the most complete reference ever of the newest zoological science. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (64)

The Monsters Among Us
If the only unknown animals you know are Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster, you will find this a bombshell. Cryptozoology is the science of "hidden animals" and includes not only animals that have not been discovered by science, but also known animals in areas where they are not suppose to occur along with the possible survival to the present day of animals now thought to be extinct. Within the language of the discipline these animals are called cryptids. Loren Coleman and Jerome Clark have written their book in the form of an encyclopedia. This book is not, strictly speaking, a chronology of unknown animals in the spirit of Bernard Heuvelmans' "On the Track of Unknown Animals". It aspires to more and tries to encompass the entire field of cryptozoology to include its history and the lives and work of the cryptozoologists involved.

The Abominable Snowman, Batutut, the Beast of Bodmin Moor, Bigfoot, Brosnie, Buru, Champ, the Iliamna Lake Monster, Manipogo, Mngwa, Mokele-mbembe, the Nandi Bear, the Orang Pendek, Sasquatch, Sea Serpents, the Skunk Ape, Teh-Ima, Tessie, the Thunderbird, Winnipogo, the Yeti the list of the animals described is very comprehensive including most of the cryptids of fact and legend known from around the world. The book is more than just a list, however. Eyewitness accounts, personal encounters and legends along with the people, both famous and obscure, whose work has furthered our understanding of this field find a place here. And like any good encyclopedia facts pertaining to the field are presented without regard to sensationalism. Cryptozoology faces a very tough question. How is it possible that so many, dozens if not hundreds, of unknown animals, some of considerable size, can exist in a world as heavily populated as this one without being known to science? This book doesn't answer that question, anymore than any of the other books have, but it is well written and contains a lot of interesting information. Still, there is nothing more fun than florid speculation and this book will give you amble opportunity to do just that. The facts are here, their relative importance is something you will have to decide for yourself.

Good reference book!
This is a great reference book for those interested in cryptozoology.It has a vast list of cryptids as well as known researchers and founders.This book doesn't go into great detail for each entry.Some of the more well know subjects (such as Bigfoot or the Yeti) have a more background than some of the lesser known cryptids.Still, it's very interesting to see that there are so many creatures that we know nothing about.It's a must have for "armchair researchers," such as myself, to have in your collection.

The Monsters Among Us
If the only unknown animals you know are Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster, you will find this a bombshell. Cryptozoology is the science of "hidden animals" and includes not only animals that have not been discovered by science, but also known animals in areas where they are not suppose to occur along with the possible survival to the present day of animals now thought to be extinct. Within the language of the discipline these animals are called cryptids. Loren Coleman and Jerome Clark have written their book in the form of an encyclopedia. This bookis not, strictly speaking, a chronology of unknown animals in the spirit of Bernard Heuvelmans' "On the Track of Unknown Animals". It aspires to more and tries to encompass the entire field of cryptozoology to includeits history and the lives and work of the cryptozoologists involved.

The Abominable Snowman, Batutut, the Beast of Bodmin Moor, Bigfoot, Brosnie, Buru, Champ, theIliamna Lake Monster, Manipogo, Mngwa, Mokele-mbembe, the Nandi Bear, the Orang Pendek, Sasquatch, Sea Serpents, the Skunk Ape, Teh-Ima, Tessie, the Thunderbird, Winnipogo, the Yeti the list of the animals described is very comprehensive including most of the cryptids of fact and legend known from around theworld. The book is more than just a list, however. Eyewitness accounts, personal encounters and legends along with the people, both famous and obscure, whose work has furthered our understanding of this field find a place here. And like any good encyclopedia facts pertaining to the field are presented without regard to sensationalism. Cryptozoology faces a very tough question. How is it possible that so many, dozens if not hundreds, of unknown animals, some of considerable size, can exist in a world as heavily populated as this one withoutbeing known to science? This book doesn't answer that question, anymore than any of the other books have, but it is well written and contains a lot of interesting information. Still, there is nothing more fun than florid speculation and this book will give you amble opportunity to do just that. The facts are here, their relative importance is something you will have to decide for yourself.

Decent Book wish there was more infomation...
Decent book wish there was more information, loved reading it though just wished they went into more detail.

Most excellent primer on cryptids
This was what I was hoping to find in a book on cryptozoology - a discussion of the various cryptids, some history as to sightings and any possible evidence that has been collected that might support the existence of a given cryptid, as well as providing information as to the exposure of hoaxes or debunking of a given piece of evidence.In short, a fairly scholarly approach to the subject as a whole while remaining quite engaging.

I did have two issues with the material presented: one, I didn't care too much for the sometimes longish background information on the researchers themselves.The "why's" as to a given individual's interest in cryptids largely don't mean much to me, barring any possible evidence he or she might be able to present regarding an encounter with said cryptid.Two, I would have preferred to see more of the photographic evidence that was often referenced but not displayed - the whole "picture's worth a thousand words" goes a long way in that regard.

All in all, just about everything I wanted for a book of this type. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (5)

Awesome book!
Purchased this book for my stepson. He is really interested in Cryptozoology. I read the entire book before wrapping it for him! This is a must have for the curious mind!

monster hunt
It was a very good read.Enjoyed it and it came in good shape

Here there be monsters
While I balance it with a dose of healthy skepticism, I am a big fan of cryptozoology, the study and search for creatures of myth that may not be so mystical after all.Shows like Monsterquest and In Search Of always keep me glued to the TV.

For all of human history, passed down for thousands of years through storytelling and writing, there have been first-hand encounters with strange beasts, many of which are still reported in the modern era.Sure, there are a lot of hoaxes and many of these creatures are far too fantastic to be real, but why not keep a small hope for just a hint of magic and mystery in the world?

And that is where "Monster Hunt: The Guide to Cryptozoology" comes in.This book is not going to convince anyone whose minds are already made up, and it doesn't set out to present a scientific case.Instead it imparts the old thrill of going to hidden lands and into deep forests and jungles to catch a glimpse of something that has only been hinted at, a creature who steps out of legend and into real life.

The structure of the book is really clever, being made out like an old explorer's notebook, complete with coffee stains and beautiful sepia and charcoal sketches.The chapters are segmented geographically, such as "Monsters of North America" or "Monsters of Africa" or "Monsters of Europe."With every entry taking up only a page or two, they manage to pack a whole lot of monsters into the book.

The entries are broken down into two segments, with the "Monster File" giving statistics such as "Name", "Also Known As", "Origins" and "Appearance."This is accompanied by a story detailing some of the history of the creature, including famous sightings or known evidence or hoaxes.At the end there is a Glossary and some profiles of "Famous Monster Hunters."There are also some blank formatted pages for explorers to add in their own "Monster Files."

"Monster Hunt" is a really fun book, both in design and information.It is perfect for kids with a decent reading level, maybe mid-Elementary school and up, who have an interest in fantasy and monsters.Even as an adult I really enjoyed it, although I have to say there wasn't a lot of new information for me here.But for someone newer to cryptozoology, I can't imagine a better starting place.

An Elegant Little Volume of Crypto Lore
This is a beautifully designed little book with a faux lizard-skin cover and many maps and illustrations in its sepia-toned pages.Although I would hesitate to classify it as "THE" guide to cryptozoology, it is certainly a very competently produced introduction to the topic, especially for ages 9-15 as there are plenty of fun facts and some useful scientific information sprinkled amid the monster descriptions.There is little here for the experienced researcher, however, and the lack of a bibliography is unfortunate.

Monster hunt review
This book has some interesting facts about different crypto ( monsters )
That are surrounded in legends. While some think these are real and others think they are legend, the most common facts are all put together in this book. This book has been wraped in a great looking cover and the pages look great too. A younger teen age crowd might be more interested in this book. Seems to be geared more for the younger crowd. This would be a great tool for BOOK REPORTS! An incredible reference guide.

The common questions concerning each ( monster ) are all listed.
Aprox weight, height, apearance, place of dwelling and so forth. ... Read more

Product Description
The Weiser Field Guide to Cryptozoology includes information, interviews, and stories about forty different cryptids seen in various places all over the world by credible eyewitnesses like policemen, rangers, and doctors. Readers will learn where and how to find flying humanoids, hairy humanoids, giants of all kinds including rabbits, bats and spiders, goblins, vampires, werewolves, demons, aliens and ghosts.

In the third book of our Weiser Field Guides, Bella online paranormal editor, Deena West Budd, surveys the still-emerging field of cryptozoology--a term coined in the 1950s by a French zoologist named Bernard Heuvelmans--the study of "hidden" or "unknown" animals not recognized in standard zoology. From traditional cryptids like Big Foot, the Abonimable Snowman and Nessie, to mythical cryptids like unicorns, vampires, dragons, and werewolves, to lesser-known cryptids like bunyips (waterhorses), Encantado (Dolphin Men of Brazil), thunderbirds, mothmen, and chupacabra, these creatures are very much alive, says Budd, if beyond the realm of normal perception.

The Weiser Field Guide to Cryptozoology includes a brief history of the field of cryptozoology and surveys all the creatures for which any credible amount of research exists. Budd gives readers tips on how to spot these creatures, as well as cautionary advice on how to interact with them. Two dozen line drawings rendered from eye witness descriptions accompany the text. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Creatures ranging from Mongolian Death Worms; Frogmen of Loveland; and Shadow People; to Dragons
Cryptozoology is the study of mythic and legendary creatures. The term was originated by French zoologist Bernard Heuvelman in the 1950s. "The Weiser Field Guide to Cryptozoology: Werewolves, Dragons, Skyfish, Lizard Men, and Other Fascinating Creatures Real and Mysterious" is a 192-page compendium providing a brief history of cryptozoology and a wealth of descriptive information on creatures ranging from Mongolian Death Worms; Frogmen of Loveland; and Shadow People; to Dragons; the New Jersey Devil; and Werewolves. Informed and informative, "The Weiser Field Guide to Cryptozoology: Werewolves, Dragons, Skyfish, Lizard Men, and Other Fascinating Creatures Real and Mysterious" is a highly recommended addition to personal, academic, and community library Metaphysical Studies reference collections and supplemental reading lists.
... Read more

Product Description
Some, like the Tasmanian tiger, are considered extinct--yet sightings are still reported. Some, like the giant squid, existed only as rumors until hard evidence finally appeared. And then there are the others, who roam a shadowy realm between myth, hucksterism and science--for example, Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster. Cryptozoology is the quest for unidentified and elusive species, and as such is often treated as a marginalized science more akin to farcical adventure. However, the subject makes for a perfectly fascinating zone of inquiry for contemporary artists interested in the fertile edges of the history of science and museums, taxonomy, myth, spectacle and fraud. Cryptozoology: Out of Time Place Scale mines the theoretical and design terrains of the twenty-first-century graphic novel and the medieval curio cabinet or Wunderkammer, exploring cryptozoology in art and popular culture. Originally exhibited at Maine's Bates College Museum of Art, it begins with Mark Dion's installation of a bureaucratic government agency, the Federal Wildlife Commission's Department of Cryptozoology, Bureau for the Investigation of Paranormal Phenomena and National Institute of Comparative Astrobiology, and features drawings, paintings, dioramas, taxidermy and performative photos by artists Rachel Berwick, Sarina Brewer, Walmor Correa, Ellen Lesperance, Robert Marbury, Jill Miller, Vic Muniz, Jeanine Oleson, Rosamond Purcell, Alexis Rockman, Marc Swanson, Jeffrey Vallance and Jamie Wyeth. ... Read more

Product Description
On every continent and in every nation, animals unrecognized by modern science are reported on a daily basis. People passionately pursue these creatures—the name given to their field of study is cryptozoology. Coined in the 1950’s, the term literally means the science of hidden animals. When the International Society of Cryptozoology (ISC) was formed in 1982, the founders declared that the branch of science is also concerned with "the possible existence of known animals in areas where they are not supposed to occur (either now or in the past) as well as the unknown persistence of presumed extinct animals to the present time or to the recent past…what makes an animal of interest to cryptology is that it is unexpected."

This reference work presents a "flesh and blood" view of cryptozoology. Here, 2,744 entries are listed, the majority of which each describe one specific creature or type of creature. Those entries cover creatures that have been reported from an extremely wide variety of locations worldwide, and throughout recorded history. Other entries cover 742 places where unnamed cryptids are said to appear; profiles of 77 groups and 112 individuals who have contributed to the field; descriptions of objects and events important to the subject; and essays on cryptotourism and hoaxes, for example. Appendices offer a timeline of zoological discoveries, annotated lists of movies and television series with cryptozoological themes, a list of crypto-fiction titles and a list of Internet websites devoted to cryptozoology. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Surprisingly accessible to general-interest readers
Many journals have recommended ENCYCLOPEDIA OF CRYPTOZOOLOGY and it's easy to see why: it packs in the research material, adds reference and bibliographic notes, and features animals unrecognized by modern science in nations around the world. That said, it's also recommended as a pick for college-level natural history collections and public library holdings alike: it packs in over two thousand reference entries on particular creatures, providing history of human interactions, natural history, and comments on environment. While not many general-interest readers would initially pick up ENCYCLOPEDIA OF CRYPTOZOOLOGY, figuring it too weighty for leisure reading, its articles and listings prove surprisingly accessible to general-interest readers, once you get past the impressive, technical-sounding title.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

Outstanding And Well Researched
Not only is this the best Encyclopedia on the subject I've ever read, but extremely well researched. Even updating right up to its publication, some of the material from other sources. I don't care how many other subjects Mr. Newton has written on, he has definitely done his homework for this one. And a quick browse of my other reviews will show I've reviewed many of the others too. If the subject is as interesting to you, as it has been for me for many years, you'll find some way to read this one.

Biased, full of errors and written by a crime-reports writer.
The author is Michael Newton, who has done many "encyclopedia of " this or that in the past, such as
the FBI Encyclopedia, and the Encyclopedia of Serial Killers, and others. He's written dozens of books, mostly
related to murderers and crime. Here he murders CZ.

Despite his claims to have been into CZ from an early age, I suspect he is just using his research format to make still one
more "Encyclopedia of(whatever)"and I say so because he seems to have gotten most of his references from
Google. A good example is his listing of me. I have websites on Nessie, CZ, Bigfoot and spirit photography. On all of them
is my phone number and email address.I never got a single email, and not one phone call. Then he states that I started in CZ
in 1983 at Loch Ness, when I actually started in 1975 with Bigfoot. He cites all the negative info he can dredge up from
sites critical to me, written by amateurs and non-academics.If it is negative, he will quote it. He also says I claim to have
found "Bigfoot remains" in Lewiston,ID, a place I have never been, in a state I have never been in. I also never found any
bigfoot remains anywhere (but neither has anyone else). He ignores the 1983 color film of Nessie I took, the 16 photos
of bigfoot-related beings I've taken, the blood and hair samples I had scientists analyze, the digitization of the PG Film
I had done @ 65 mb per frame, all my PG Film analysis, and he fails to even mention my articles and theories. He holds
the Richard Greenwell- style f&b take on all "cryptids" despite thousands of years of failure to find any remains.

He gives mild praise to Loren Coleman, ignoring his blatant theft and sale of Peter Byrne's photos to TV, saying (wow)
that Coleman has claimed to have visited all 50 states in his search for Bigfoot (and found nothing).

He praises Richard Greenwell, (deceased) for 30 years of finding nothing and getting an honorary PhD from some
South American university for finding nothing and not realizing that continued failure requires opening new doors.

He says that Matt Moneymaker is an attorney, when he never passed the bar exam.

He does at least give short shrift to Rene Dahinden, also deceased.

He praised Tim Dinsdale,also deceased, not knowing Tim had told me in person, with a witness, that he was
a secret paranormalist and kept it quietjust to save his book sales.

He praised zoologist Ivan Sanderson, also deceased, ignoring that he had become anoutspoken paranormalist in his last
year of life.

My major complaint is his lack of objectivity, something that the flawed Wikipedia at least trys to achieve.

Anything good? Yes, many references to odd beings with tidbits of info all gathered together in one place.
He did go into something I did not know,about divers in the Gulf encountering large, terrifying strange
sea monsters that eat each other as the divers watch.

On balance, I give it a C+. Worth having if you understand he is not neutral and is very incomplete.

Jon-Erik Beckjord, a cryptozoologist.www.beckjord.com
415-289-2277

an excellent collection
I will agree with the reviewer 'reader' and say this is an excellent collection of up to date material. To the others all I can say is if you can't be bothered to read something, let alone pay for it, then don't bother reviewing it.It's nothing but sour grapes. As for the price, you get what you pay for, and if all you want are $10 books then stick to the rehash in the bargain bin.

For those looking for a serious collection this is the book for you.You could buy twenty cheaper books and not get everything that is in this one issuance. The appendices alone should keep you going with any of the subjects you find interesting.
To be fair the illustrations are not the greatest but it isn't intended to be a picture book.
Yes, it isn't cheap but if this is where your interests lay this volume should be in your collection.

Read someone else
Like the reviewers before me said, why pay 95$ for a rehash? You'd be much better off buying a Loren Coleman book for about $10 like "Mysterious America", or something by Jerome Clark. I got lucky and got a copy of Heuvellman's (sp?) "On the Track of Unknown Animals" for $20 on [...] ...arguably the Bible of early cryptozoology. In other words, go buy 5 better books rather than this one. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

The One and Only
Chad Arment's textbook on cryptozoology is unique--in its very existence, in its solid scientific approach to a subject often reviled by critics as "pseudo-science," and in its healthy skepticism. Anyone interested in natural mysteries will find it a valuable addition to their libraries.

It's ok
I found this book difficult reading. It is choppy in the way that it goes from the author writing, to old newspaper articles that you are reading from. I would have preferred to just hear it told by the author. It got repetitive because there are a few different articles in each chapter about the same kind of creature, so you are basically reading the same info 2 or 3 times each chapter.

Book Review Cryptozoology, Science & Speculation
For those just getting into the research of Bigfoot and his kin, this is a great starter book, informing on all aspects of becoming an investigator of the big hairy mystery ape.

Defining Cryptozoology
Cryptozoology: Science & Speculation by Chad Arment is a worthy attempt at defining the often slippery science of cryptozoology.The book is divided into roughly two halves, beginning with an in-depth explanation of what cryptozoology is and is not, and follows with real-world examples of its practice.

The first half of the book attempts to define, in no uncertain terms, the science that is cryptozoology.The author goes into rigorous detail here, first priming the reader with foundational chapters which address the topic from scientific, logical, and ethnozoological perspectives.This is also the most potentially difficult portion of the reading, if for no other reason than it's a characteristically dry treatment of scientific principles.If you can make it through the explanation of various forms of logical fallacy, and how scientific fact differs from theory and belief, the rest of the reading will be a breeze.That's not to say that the introductory material was superfluous or excessive.In fact, I agree entirely with the author's intent to provide a solid scientific foundation for his work.Ultimately, however, if you recall your school science course fundamentals well enough, you may find these few chapters a bit tedious.

The good new is, things soon pick up speed.The remainder of Part I ("Science") is spent addressing cryptozoology directly.What is it?What isn't it?How does a real cryptozoologist practice in the field?Why is it a relevant field of science?What are some common arguments against the existence of cryptozoology, and how can they be countered?These few chapters are the real meat-and-potatoes of book.Arment goes farther than any author I've yet read to position cryptozoology as a relevant and worthwhile field of research.If you previously used the term "cryptozoology" loosely, or assumed it to be in any way a sort of catchall for various pseudosciences, this work has a good chance of reshaping your view.The author makes a sound enough case that you could easily see new university courses cropping up for study in this area.

The latter half of the book takes an entirely different track.We now understand what cryptozoology is on paper, so the author takes us onward into the field.He presents real life cases to illustrate and support the material we've just been presented, and he manages to do so in a refreshingly broad and original manner.The ensuing chapters cover historical cases which individually demonstrate folklore, hoaxes, and genuine cryptozoological mystery.These pages include large amounts of quoted source material, interspersed with the author's commentary, and eschews mainstream topics in favor of the more obscure and focused.

All in all, this book really does qualify as a bible of cryptozoology.It goes to great lengths to define the subject as a legitimate field of scientific inquiry, and it follows through with well structured real-life illustration of the important topics.This should be a must-read for anyone who wants to intelligently discuss or otherwise practice the science of cryptozoology.

Rating: 5/5

When you decide you want to understand cryptozoology and cryptozoologists, this is the book for you...
Chad Arment, with Cryptozoology: Science & Speculation, has formalized the study of "cryptids" (defined as "an ethnoknown animal for which concrete evidence does not yet exist," p. 20).Arment really works to pull form and function together in studying cryptids, discussing the scientific method, the basis of proof, and other philosophical issues related to studying the "known but unknown" (my phrasing).

Here are a few of the gems in this book:

"All cryptids are folkloric....Cryptids are folkloric because they are ethnoknown - they occupy a place in an ethnozoological scheme even through they arestill unverified by science" (p. 56).

"There are too many stretches of uninhabited or sparsely inhabited land for anyone to be adamant about the non-existence of large unknown species in North America" (p. 86).

"The overall process of cryptozoology is straightforward:1) recognize cryptid, 2) Gather information on cryptid along with pertinent environmental and ecological characteristics, 3) Determine a means of obtaining sufficient physical evidence to confirm or refute the existence of a previously unknown biological species" (p. 94).

"Before we can determine whether an account is cryptozoological, we first investigate the possibility that the sighting is a hoax, misidentification, or social fabrication" (p. 94).

"Let's be honest - there is a lot of misinformation, poor speculation, and outright baloney in many books" (p. 106).

"Cryptozoology is concerned with a very small proportion of those unrecognized species - those which have enough salience to be noticed, distinguished, and described by humans prior to scientific discovery" (p. 128).

"Cryptozoology is discovery science, not research science.This seems to confuse both enthusiasts and critics alike" (p. 136).

Arment takes the reader on a search for a number of species in North America.Some, for example the "great naked bear," he describes as probable misidentifications. Others, including the "long-tailed wildcat," he does not discount so readily.

There are a disproportionate number of "cat-like" and "primate-related" cryptids in North America.There are probably some interesting psychological reasons why this is so.

I first became aware of this literature in reference to the "Maui mystery cat" that had state biologists searching for a "black panther," obviously a potential release.However, the "evidence" was surprisingly slim, and the physical evidence in every case did not corroborate with the "ethnoknown" evidence.Why?

I also enjoyed Appendix I in Arment's book about the techniques for searching for cryptids.This was a reprint of a 1960s brochure ("Suggestions for the Obtaining of Larger Zoological Specimens for Scientific Study") written by an Ivan T. Sanderson.Mr. Sanderson was very serious about detailing these techniques with the tools at hand at the time, and noted "A Submachine gun is very effect [sic] especially if it has a short barrel and a large carbine.With it, you can chop down the biggest target and then administer a decent Coupe de Grace" (p. 353).Today's cryptozoologist would be much better off using the techniques found in the book, Restraint and Handling of Wild and Domestic Animals, by Murray E. Fowler.

This is an important book for the serious cryptozoologist. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (1)

Very good book on not only Bigfoot, but Pacific Northwest Culture.
This book, originally written in French by the author, has been translated by Dr. Paul LeBlond and brought to American audiences by Chris Murphy and Hancock House, and it is a good one. Dr. Debenat presents us the classics of the Sasquatch field, as well as Native American legends and eyewitness accounts. But, he goes beyond that, by presenting us with his interactions with Pacific Northwest researchers such as the late Fred Bradshaw, as well as his good friend Dr. Ed Fusch (alternate spelling: Fuchs), a prospector of precious minerals, as well as a philosopher and geologist, who gives Debenat a tour of Washington State and different areas, which Debenat describes in really terrific detail. He also talks of his friendship with the late Belgian scientist Dr. Bernard Heuvelmans, and his philosophies on Sasquatch research and on animal ecology and biology. This is one of the better books on the subject to come along in some time, and really highly recommended. There are also some really terrific photographs, several pages of color photos, which compliment the book very well. Thank you, Dr. LeBlond and Mr. Murphy, for bringing this rare treasure to American audiences. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Great overview
This book gives a great overview for the beginning cryptozoologist. What makes this book different from other crypto books is the emphasis on what the bible says about mystery animals.
Great Book.

Revealed cyptids of the Bible
This book gives a biblical perspective to cryptozoology. Many cryptids that people are seeing are revealed in the Bible. These creatures are real and do exist. Cryptozoology has been given a bad rap for much too long. The book gives a list of creatures that fit the descriptions of cryptids that are being seen all over the world today. One case in point,the Komodo Dragon was thought to be a myth until they caught a pair of them back in the early 1900's. The book also reveals who created these magnificent creatures and why they were created. ... Read more

Product Description
The world can be a dangerous place. Just ask George Kodiak.When a strange and extremely aggressive animal is shot and killed by police inside a local Voodoo priestess' family mausoleum, who better to identify the thing than "the guy who caught Bigfoot"?In this, the third installment of "The Kodiak Books" series, cryptozoologist George Kodiak comes to Louisiana to confirm an identity for what could possibly be the legendary Honey Island Swamp Monster. When a necropsy fails to nail down a specific species for the seven-foot, fur-covered beast with claws like a bear and double rows of very sharp teeth, Kodiak becomes embroiled in the world of Voodoo to investigate why this woman was keeping the animal inside her mausoleum. To find the answer, he will risk losing his sanity... and his life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Voodoo, Hoodoo, Scary Stuff and a Whole Lot More
I like a horror story, really like a horror story, and Lee not only serves up a tension filled, scary read, but somehow he sneaks in a bit of voodoo, some hoodoo, a monster based on myth or maybe fact, because by the time you're halfway through the story you will believe.

Then you'll start looking over your shoulder as George Kodiak wanders from one gut wrenching situation into another. Kodiak keeps coming back for more, he's a hero for our times and each of Lee's books is better than the last. I for one cannot wait for the next.

By the way, after I read the manuscript this is what I wrote.

"If you haven't read Lee Murphy yet, you're in for a pleasant and chilling surprise. HERETOFORE UNKNOWN takes horror and cryptofiction to a whole 'nother level. A masterpiece of crypto-horror fiction. It chilled me to the bone."

It's been a long time since I wrote that and a long time since I read that early draft, long enough so that when I picked up the book yesterday I thought I could approach it fresh, but not so, because some of the characters and situations just stayed with me, a few words into a scene and it all came rushing back. The book is substantially the same as that manuscript, more polished to be be sure, but the gripping story is the same, the characters real as life, the writing and tone of voice first rate. What I said back then goes double now. This is a good book, one you won't want to miss.

PS. I don't know exactly just what hoodoo is, but it sure as heck sounds good coming after voodoo.

Geoge Kodiak chases another hoo-doo down!
I can only compare Lee's latest cryptonovel to a roller coaster ride of pure horror, driven with the help of my hero, George Kodiak, a Korean war veteran who is even older than I am, but with a great deal more stamina to fight these fearsome creatures.I can only hope that Lee won't be so slothful in getting his next novel out, although this one will be a hard act to follow, for sure.Everyone assumed (almost) that this loathesome creature was either an ill-tempered Bigfoot or Godzilla on crack, or a combination thereof, but he's worse than either, and for those who don't know, just wait for the surprise!

Now as for you, Lee, don't rest on your laurels by being slothful.Rather, get busy on your next cryptothriller.

Has anyone seen Lee's magnificent artistic talent?Go to his web site and get a breathtaking surprise.The painting on the cover looks like Mondrian's "Red Tree", for one.And many thanks, Lee, for mentioning me in your acknowledgments for badgering you for several years not to be so slothful!

Monsters, Voodoo & Comspiracies
This, the third in this cryptozoological fiction series, is a most worthy addition, indeed. Much more than the story of the Honey Island swamp monster, the protagonist, George Kodiak wends his way not only through the Louisiana swamps, but also into the mysterious world of Haitian voodoo and myriad conspiracies.

Although this is a fiction book, it is very well researched and the story is most timely and captivates the reader to the last page. The characterizations are well written and compelling and this is a must-read for anyone with even a hint of interest in the subjects involved.

This reader is looking forward to the next book in this series. Can't wait!

Best in the series (so far)
This is, so far, the best book in the series. Murphy really hit his stride with this one, the action is non-stop and the characters really come into their own. A+! Can't wait til the next one comes out.

Kodiak is back !
Cryptozoology and adventure fans - it was worth the wait!I was hooked after the first book (Where Legends Roam) and enjoyed the second one (Naitaka) even more.I couldn't wait for the third novel.
Well Kodiak is back and this latest installement is even darker than the previous ones. Once again Mr. Murphy integrates fascinating facts about an unknown creature with fast paced action.The honey Island Swanp monster comes across as malicious and extremely dangerous.Yet it is not the only danger Kodiak faces this time.The Louisianna swamps are the background for this latest adventure and the voodoo elements add a new creepy dimension.I highly recomment this book to all adventure fans.The only question is:when is the next book coming out and what will the next creature be?Ah the cruel wait... ... Read more

Product Description
This true story of Texas millionaire Tom Slick's quest for the Abominable Snowman and other cryptids-creatures unknown to science-reveals a life made for the movies. Fascinating stories of Slick's early brushes with adventure such as his stepfather's abduction by George "Machine Gun" Kelly in 1933 and his creation of a research facility near Loch Ness are followed by his later expeditions into Nepal and the Pacific Northwest in search of the yeti and its counterpart, the Sasquatch. The story of Slick's amazing, fanatic, and driven search for the stuff of legends takes readers on a whirlwind journey from the dense temperate rainforests of Washington State to the icy peaks of the Himalayas-and shows that sometimes cryptids leave the halls of the imagination and are found and captured, as proved by the giant panda and the Komodo dragon, leaving readers to wonder what more there is to be discovered. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

True life encounters in Cryptozoology
Very good book, there is a lot of information and facts in this book,if you are intersted in detail, this book has a lot to offer in the science world.

Welllll, it's ok
I just expected a little more than this. I've read some of Coleman's other books and this one just isn't up to snuff. It's certainly readable and should be added to someone's library if they are interested in yeti, bigfoot, or cryptozoology in general. The book is titled for Tom Slick but Bernard Heuvelman gets ample coverage in this also. I wish there was more on Slick's activities regarding the sasquatch. The coverage of the yeti expeditions was the same basic coverage you can get in nearly any book on the subject. I know Coleman is a capable writer and researcher, and I was expecting better than this.

I've read and enjoyed other biographies much more than this. I also mention the numerous minor typos throughout the book, simple little things that should have been checked and caught in the editing process (there are quite a number of times there is a 'hut' or 'he' when it was supposed to be 'but' and 'be') but those are disregardable (by no means is my grammer or spelling perfect). There were also several occassions while reading this biography of Tom Slick in which I forgot the book was about Slick because of sideline stories or wandering off topic that didn't seem directly (or indirectly) involving Slick.

Mr. Coleman, best wishes but you are better than this.

interesting on all fronts
The book starts off with the background to Tom Slick's family, which in itself was entertaining ,and then on to Tom's expeditions. The book, although a true story, reads like an adventure novel. I'm only sad Tom Slick is no longer with us as I think he is a great loss to the scientific community ,with his zest for investigating the usual. The ending of the book and the stories of involvement with the CIA gave great food for thought and I won't spoil anyone's enjoyment of the book by going into more detail.I would recommend this book to anyone, whether a cryptozoologist or not, as it entertains as well as informs. I emailed the author to say how much I enjoyed the book and was delighted to receive a reply.This is a book that deserves to be read.

Named in The Anomalist Book Awards 2002
Recommended as one of the outstanding cryptozoology books of the year by The Anomalist Book Awards & Book List 2002. ... Read more

Product Description
The Historical Bigfoot covers sightings of Wild Men, Gorillas, Yahoos, and What-Is-It's, from the early 1800s to the 1940s. Before the term "Bigfoot" was coined to signify an unknown species of North American primate, sightings of towering bipedal apes were reported throughout the continent, but called a variety of names. This book compiles and sorts the most significant sightings, but also provides a look at hoaxes, misidentifications, and the influential perspective of newspaper editors as they dealt with reports of a strange hairy manlike ape. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

A result of exhaustive research
The skeptics can deny the existence of North American cryptids but they cannot deny the existence of the huge catalogue of reported sightings spanning such a long period of time.This books is obviously the result of a lot of hard work and exhaustive research.This book is an absolute must-have for the Sasquatch enthusiast.It is a study of the subject from a historical view and also from a sociological view.

Groundbreaking Research
Chad Arment has produced another winner, with this outpouring of archival research that lays the groundwork for any understanding of modern hominid or "apeman" sightings. Silly anonymous claims that another reviewer "could have slapped this together over the weekend" smell of sour grapes from someone who's never spent five minutes in newspaper archives. No one interested in Sasquatch or natural mysteries will want to let this volume slip away.

More accurately... The Misleading Bigfoot
This "book" is in fact only a slapped-together collection of news articles and blurbs which reference "wild men" sightings. There is the sparsest introduction which pretends to some kind of academic Bigfoot elitism, but never delivers, as there is absolutely no narrative, no attempt at context placement, no explanations of any of the relevant themes etc. There are only the articles, reprinted as is, and organized by state, that's it.

I could have slapped this together over the weekend.

The title though technically accurate is misleading in that there is no actual reference to Bigfoot, only to "wild men" etc that may or may not have been a Bigfoot since the articles all predate the term Bigfoot, and hence the post modern legend. The worst part though is that most of these stories are more or less identical, and the best one's (such as Jacko's) are all familiar from being included in far better and more inclusive Bigfoot books. If your OK with paying a hefty price for what is essentially a flip through, go for it, otherwise save your money and invest in a more substantial Bigfoot book you can actually read, like the Bigfoot Casebook Bigfoot Casebook updated: Sightings And Encounters from 1818 to 2004 which has the best of the Historical Bigfoot plus!

Three stars for being about Bigfoot, zero for effort. The Historical Bigfoot is for hardcore Bigfoot aficionados and paraphernalia collectors only!

book review
Finally, a collection of old newspaper articles about Bigfoot, all in one place!! This gives both a historical spin to the story of Bigfoot, and an interesting view into the opinions of and storytelling abilities of those who reported on Bigfoot in the past.

Mysteries Magazine review
Chad Arment's third book on cryptozoology is the result of prodigious archival research on unknown primate reports filed from 41 states and six Canadian provinces between 1785 and 1946. The book effectively disproves the claim that Bigfoot was "invented" by a Bluff Creek, CA, hoaxer in 1958 or by a mercenary cameraman in 1967. If The Historical Bigfoot achieved that goal alone, it would be worth the cover price, but Arment offers a great deal more.

A skeptic in the purest sense, Arment opens with a thorough discussion of every conceivable explanation for false Bigfoot sightings, including hoaxes and stories contrived for ulterior motives, or misidentification of known animals or human beings. When all else is eliminated, only one possibility remains: that an unknown species still dwells in the wild reaches of North America.

The beauty of Arment's work is that he allows the historical record to speak for itself, through newspaper articles relating 143 separate sightingsacross North America. Nor do classic cases from the Pacific Northwest predominate. British Columbia and Oregon present only six cases each while Washington and northern California share another six between them. The entire region falls short of Pennsylvania, which has 19 cases on file while neighboring Ohio boasts 15.

Arment does not interpret the specific cases, nor does he dismiss them out of hand. Rather, he presents an archive so that readers can pursue specific items at their leisure.

Most of the stories collected in The Historical Bigfoot will be new to readers of the classic literature and to many field researchers. In that respect, the book performs an invaluable service. Casual Bigfoot buffs and serious cryptozoologists alike will rue the day they let this volume pass them by.
--www.mysteriesmagazine.com ... Read more

Product Description

In this fascinating two-volume encyclopedia, author George M. Eberhart provides a comprehensive catalog of nearly 1,000 cryptids—unknown animals usually reported through eyewitness accounts and not yet described by science. Cryptids are the stuff of folklore, hoaxes, and genuine scientific breakthroughs. There are 400 now-classified cryptids once considered either extinct or pure fantasy. The cryptozoologist's job is to strip away the myth, misidentification, and mystery—and separate fact from fiction.

Mysterious Creatures covers everything from dinosaurs and the emala-ntouka, an elephant-killing dinosaur-like animal of central Africa, to searches for the Loch Ness monster, Bigfoot, and other cryptozoological hoaxes. Entries about specific animals include the derivation or meaning of each cryptid's name, its scientific name, variant names, a physical description, behavior, description of tracks, habitat, significant sightings, present status, and possible explanations. Illustrations and photographs accompany many entries. The book also includes resources and references for further information.

Customer Reviews (10)

Where is the Vol 2 of this masterpiece
I have ordered it twice from Amazon for this item. Both shipped without Vol 2 !!! I get fed up and asked for refund instead!!
I did stated clearly the reason for the returns but nobody from Amazon really cared!! What a big disappointment!

Itìs not what I ordered
I've paid for a "2 volume set" of Mysterious Creatures, but you've sent only the second book (from N to Z). I'm still waiting for the first volume.
Massimo Izzi

Definitely best price
No idea how it was done, but I got it 75% less price with amazon that with any other vendor, perfect condition, my son loved it, he just goes literally everywhere with them.

Complete covers everything
These books cover everything from scientific names to places. It is heavey on bigfoots from around the world and overlaps some on them but all in all a good read if your into the science part of cryptozoology.There are stories in the book about sightings but this is not a pure sightings book it is more about cataloging the cryptids.

Phenomenal 2 Volume Set!
Finally! A long overdue authoritative encyclopedia of cryptozoology! This set is awesome! There is so much information here that it'll take a veeery long time to digest it all.

I do have several suggestions though:
1) More photos and illustrations (especially photos and stills from film footage which are discussed, but not shown).
2) Dustjackets. The covers are gorgeous, but how long will they remain so without dustjackets? And at this price, you'd think the publisher could afford it. Which brings me to...
3) The price is outrageous. How can the publisher make any money by limiting it's buyers to libraries, rich people and fools like me? $60 sure, even $75, but $185? Jeez! And even though I paid WAY less than that for my set, it still almost killed by bank account.

Even so, I'm glad I bought it and wouldn't be without it. ... Read more

Product Description
This anthology compiles chapters by several investigators, looking at mystery animals that are rarely mentioned in cryptozoological literature, or in some cases are brand new to cryptozoology. Some turn out to be hoaxes or misidentifications, some can not yet be distinctly discerned from a background of cultural folklore, but others may very well point to unrecognized species awaiting zoological discovery.

Chapters include subjects on luminous spiders, undescribed pigs, the possibility of new coelacanths, "flying snakes," a Pacific Island mystery bird, freshwater cephalopods, bipedal reptile sightings, a Kentucky water cryptid, New Mexico folkloric animals, and classic newspaper reports from around the world.

Chapter contributors include Matthew A. Bille, Gary Mangiacopra, Dwight G. Smith, Barton M. Nunnelly, Jerry A. Padilla, Michel Raynal, Nick Sucik, and Chad Arment. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Great addition to the cryptozoology library
I have a lot of books on this subject. It's always great to come across one that contains new or previously unheard of material. A good book to add to the collection.

Neat subject, but not very much depth
This Book is a hodgepodge.It ranges form well detailed discussions of pig crypties and strange possible birds to random newspaper articles that are analyzed as to whether they are valid or not.The author indicated that his purpose is to bring to light some lesser known criptids.It leaves me wanting a bit more, but it was worth reading if only to add to my other books on the subject.If you want some neat factoid to think about buy the book if you are looking for deep science look else where. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Biblical Dinosaur Truth
This book gives the reader the truth about Dinosaurs. It gives the biblical perspective to the mystery of dinosaurs. Not from a Evolution Theory view but from a CREATION point of view.

I'm an amateur cryptozoologist, and this book is trash
There is some evidence to suggest there may be one or two, as-yet-undiscovered species of very large reptile in the Congo River Basin (exactly where you'd expect to find such a creature, and exactly where they'd have the easiest time hiding out). To call such beasts "dinosaurs," however, seems inaccurate. They are merely large, undiscovered species of reptiles.If they exist at all (I very much hope they do).

There is some evidence to support the existence of a very large species of undiscovered monitor/goana lizard in Australia (and particularly New Guinea), and I suppose such a thing could be mistaken for a T. Rex (especially since T. Rex's are seen today as having less of an anthropomorphic, bipedal system of locomotion, as compared to how they were portrayed on, say, the old, 1970s "Land of the Lost" tv show). But to suggest they are presently lurking on the prairies of Montana, really takes an over-active imagination, combined with immense ignorance, and probably a dash of outright stupidity, if not full-blown psychosis.

I'm sorry if that seems a little harsh, but the facts are sometimes harsh.

A black eye to Cryptozoology
Doesn't Cryptozoology have a hard enough time being accepted as credible science without something like this coming along? Cryptozoology is the study of hidden animals not an attack on science or evolution. Also I'd like to point out there is NO SUCH THING as an evolutionist or evolutionism for that matter. Evolution is not a way or belief it is a theory. A theory based on observation nothing more.
If a prehistoric animal were discovered why would it disprove evolutionary theory by the way? Ancient creatures have been discovered already. Several infact and they have not proved that that Earth is 6000 years old, by the way if you believe it is please go visit the Bristlecone Pine trees and see what they have to say on the subject (little hint some of those trees are 3000 years or more older than "Creation").

It is possible that ancient or even prehistoric animals may still exist but you will not find a T-Rex in Montana. They are extinct and have been for a very long time. Megalanea may still stalk the Australian outback, all sorts of ancient sea creaters very likely still swim the worlds oceans, reports of surviving giant sloths in South America have growing credibility. None of this prooves or disprooves evolution. Hopefully we may discover some of these animals before they finally die out for real but not if the efforts of real cryptozoologists are hampered and discredited by books like this. Cryptozoology is not a tool to prove creationism or disprove evolution so stop trying to use it as such. At best its a strawman argument and at worst your killing a new science before its even started.

Dinosaurs ARE alive today
I don't know what "homeschooled Christian" has to do with the content of the author's arguments.Is "brainwashed public school godless heathen" superior testimony in the market place of ideas?Frankly, evolutionists rarely depart from ad hominem attacks on Creationism, which makes their position greatly suspect.Furthermore, evolutionism overuses the argument from analogy to the point of absurdity.Just because you have an eyeball is evidence for them that you're related to an insect.False analogy is an informal fallacy of logic that is practiced by every evolutionist.However, one piece of evidence that dinosaurs and humans coexisted is the last nail in the coffin for their theory.With evolutionists, you have a rare example where ideology constantly dictates perception.Recently, a T-Rex skeleton was unearthed in Montana that was not fossilized.Indeed, it had fresh blood in it.According to the official report a scientist, Mary Schweitzer, could not believe her eyes: Schweitzer recalls, "I looked at this and I looked at this and I thought, this can't be. Red blood cells don't preserve."Schweitzer showed the slide to Horner. "When she first found the red-blood-cell-looking structures, I said, Yep, that's what they look like," her mentor recalls."The average scientist asserts that such fresh blood in the bone is proof positive that this creature had to be alive at least "50" years ago.Imagine that.50 years ago.Recently, several reputable people claim to have seen what seems to be a perfect description of a T-Rex in the Australian outback known as the Burrunjor.Yet, here, right in cold Montana, these things apparently may be still walking around the prairie.If you have difficulty believing this, it only shows how successful a public school education has brainwashed you.

Utter bilge!
Written by a 14 year old. Cribbed from the internet. Mostly untrue.
Creationist rubbish. Does not contain a single cogent fact but plenty of religious drivel.
I threw my copy in the bin. Contains nothing of use to a serious cryptozoologist.
Read Heuvelmans instead. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

An alphabetical list of creatures real and imagined
Strictly speaking this book is not cryptozoology nor is it a true dictionary.Rather it is an alphabetical list of of creatures real and imagined without context or illustrations.There is a notable lack of cross referencing which seems to assume a level of knowledge some readers might not possess.A "Huse-Bjorn" is defined as "a were-bear in Norwegian legend", but there is no entry for "were-bear". There are numerous references to BHM but no entry for BHM an omission that may perplex some readers if they miss the brief entry on page 6 that lists the Abbreviations in text.

The entries concerning better known "cryptids" and mythological creatures are for the most part well researched and reasonably complete with some glaring exceptions.For the lesser known, however, the information can be frustratingly scanty as in this example of a typical entry "Rhone Monster- Monsters were seen in this long French River in 1954-5 and one was seen at its mouth in 1964."

The writing never rises above the average and there is no pronunciation guide, in short, while it may contain the name of every conceivable legendary and mythical creature it feels unfinished as in a first draft.One wishes Coghlan had spent more time and done a second.

Of course it doesn't have any pictures
This is a very good tool; it is a dictionary for a very enigmatic field.

No, it doesn't have pictures. But duh, people don't exactly know what cryptids look like. If they did, they wouldn't be cryptids.

Duh.

It's a good tool and I highly recommend it.

A Very Good Overview Of Cryptids
A good place for an initial overview, of just how many unknown creatures are yet to be classified by science. I've been reading about cryptid sightings for much of my 50 years, and had probably never heard of half this book has to offer. There are so many wonders left to discover, right in our very own backyard. I hope we're not too late for many of them. As the other reviewer noted though, the one major drawback is its total lack of illustrations. Hopefully, we'll see an enlarged revision in the near future.

Exhaustive content, unattractive format
This compendium of cryptids (mysterious, rare and unknown animals and creatures) is exhaustive in its treatment of the subject of cryptozoology. Its pages are packed with creatures you've heard of and hundreds more that will probably be new to you. As a tool for those interested in cryptozoology, this is perfect. However, its total lack of pictures or format creativity is obvious, that's why I'm rating the book right down the middle. All in all though, well worth it if you're interested in this topic. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

Lots of fluff, absolutely NO substance
I'm interested in the entire concept of cryptozoology, mostly from the perspective of a science attempting to quantity and identify animals/creatures that may be living on the fringes of what is considered "fact."I had high hopes that this book would be full of facts, sightings, pictures, odd reports and possible unidentified "specimens" that pointed to the existence of an animal or animals that aren't currently believed to exist by mainstream science.

That was not this book.

Full disclosure, I stopped reading about a third of the way into the "Manimals" section, mostly because I was getting tired of the same sort of setup each and every entry.The information supplied in this book is pretty sparse, with vast chunks pretty much ripped straight from any number of cultures' mythologies and then interspersed with "reports" from supposed Cryptozoological Society of London field agents.What made the "reports" somewhat hard to take seriously was that each and every report was - at the very least - duplicated by having it typed out vice photocopied/otherwise reproduced, but otherwise made to look as if it was an "originally scanned" document.Not the best way of having someone take you seriously.

The other real big deal-breaker for me was that just about EVERY possible mythological creature obviously HAD to have existed; when one of the entries made reference to some variant creature being so "obviously fantastical" that it couldn't have existed, I nearly stopped and said, "Really?REALLY??THAT'S where you draw the line?"

The book is 99% supposition and 1% decent formatting.

fun book
I never thought that I would argue with Loren Coleman (whose books are great), but "A Natural History of the Unnatural World" is a fun book. It's not a hoax - in fact, I can't see any adult (or even bright children) taking it seriously. This book belongs squarely in the realm of fantasy. But it's engaging fantasy. As a cryptozoology text, it's useless, and as authentic folklore, it's not much better. But this is a nice book to look through and speculate on how creatures like these could exist - not unlike Peter Dickinson's "Flight of Dragons." I have seen a couple of people giving high marks to Shuker's "The Unexplained," and I'll agree with that; check that one out if you want something serious.

A One of a Kind Masterpiece!
This bizarre book is a real page turner. It describes at least one hundred beasts believed by normal zoologists to be fictional. Dive into the abyssal lair of the giant octopus, explore the jungles of Latin America in search of the beautiful coatl, or watch two yale jousting at an African water hole. This unique piece will never cease to thrill and delight the reader. Why did the phoenix (Phoenos immortalis) go extinct? Why are unicorns (Equus monoceros) attracted to maidens? The answers to all of these questions and more are found within this books strange and intriguing pages. This unique work will never bore the reader.

a story book
This is a fun book for kids or adults - well illustrated and layed out. this is also pure fantasy in the style of a realistic journal by a faux society. if you are looking for any real cryptozoological information look elsewhere. but for kids it's cool.

Buyer Beware
This is a handsomely published book, with thick glossy paper and numerous pictures and illustrations. However, if you get it thinking it is going to be a serious or archival study of cryptozoology, you will be disappointed. Its greater emphasis is on purely mythological creatures like mermaids, elves, the sphinx, unicorns, gorgons and other creatures of fantasy, only it purports to pass them all off as not only actual living creatures, but as still surviving in remote pockets of the world. The volume does so with a straight face, and purported eyewitness accounts. If you are fascinated by accounts of creatures that "might be", like bigfoot, lake monsters, mothman, or dinosaur survivors, then stay away from this book, which is basically a treatise on fantasy creatures prepared for a junior high audience with liberal dashes of pseudo-science thrown in for good measure. Again, its copious illustrations and colorful format are its best feature. More serious students of mysterious creatures would be better served by The Unexplained, by Dr. Karl P. Shuker, an equally well-illustrated book that is dedicated to more probable instances of cryptozoology. ... Read more

Product Description
A wonderful and exciting story for children of all ages."It has been a long, long time, since I've encountered such original characters as Eridona "Eerey" Toscin, her werewolf-like cousin, Edict and their amazing mutant friends. From Eerey's pet prehistoric spider, Eightball, to the adventurous organtaur, Loofah, this book is simply crammed with wonder and imagination leagues removed from other such books." Ron Fortier - Writer of "Popeye" and "The Green Hornet" for Now Comics, and "Peter Pan: Return to Neverland" for Malibu Comics. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Spiders, dopplegangers and orangataurs, oh my
Eerey Toscin in the Cryptoid Zoo is a fun read from beginning to end.Each character is someone completely unique.(Who wouldn't want an 8 lb spider living in your backpack as your best friend?)Through Kevin's descriptions of each personality I became quickly endeared to them.Their adventures through the Zoo are fresh and unexpected and I looked forward to what they would be up against next.Eerey is one of those books that can be enjoyed by all ages.Great characters and adventures for the young, puzzles and hidden commentaries on life for the rest of us.

Imagination stimulation at its best
Eery Toscin is an odd little girl.Desiring to live life in the dark, though she claims to be afraid of it, she resides in your bedroom with her pet, an eight-pound spider named Eightball.

This book, however, takes her well beyond her comfortable confines and into the world of the Cryptoid Zoo, a zoo designed to house animals "which do not exist."This world is full of animals with extraordinary features.Some talk, some do not.Some have big teeth, some can fly, while others are quite invisible.All have in common one trait; they exercise the reader's imagination.

The one fly in this delicious dessert is a dobbleganger who has locked the real zookeeper away and is bent on destroying the zoo and its inhabitants, including Eery and her cousin.In the end, of course, our heroine, small as she is, overcomes the evil with a little help from animals concerned with saving their zoo.

While more modern in theme, this book reminded me of the days when I read Tom Swift books by flashlight under the covers.If you have a young one at your house, use them as an excuse to buy this book.Just don't let them know you have it until after you've read it.

Storytelling at its finest!
Eerey Tocsin is a wonderfully inventive and exciting story, good for all ages. Kevin Noel Olson has a strong sense of voice and care for his craft. The narrative flows well and leads the reader easily into Olson's imaginative world. I highly recommend this book.

There's A Need For Wondrous Fear, Eerey Tocsin Is Here...
Opening this book is unlocking a door to worlds tantalizingly familiar and marvelously unknown. At times reminiscent of Doctor Dolittle, Alice In Wonderland and The Wizard of Oz while at other times all three and more rolled into one, "Eerey Tocsin in the Cryptoid Zoo" is a dizzying, original tale. It is a journey of discovery about the world around us and the uniqueness within us.

Kevin Noel Olson has an author's voice that speaks to the young and adult reader and commands rapt attention from both groups. It is educational & exciting, and carries more than a hint of menace. The author weaves scientific facts, classic & modern myth, fantasy, riddles, creative problem solving and interesting perspectives on the world we think we know into an adventure that doesn't show the seams of its joined themes. He crafts a story that invites the reader to take part in an adventure that educates while it thrills, and does so with a very playful sense of humor.

Eerey Tocsin, her cousin Edict that could pass for a werewolf or a troglodyte, an orangutaur named Loofah, Mongolian death-worms, an invisible boy that idolizes the legend under the bandages of The Invisible Man, Claude Rains, or the host of other beings inhabiting the mysterious Cryptic Zoo are all fleshed out in colorful style, even when you can't see them. Books that are so visual with their storytelling transcend the printed medium and allow the reader to think they've gotten a DVD player implanted in their brain. Works destined for other forms like animation and feature films jump off their pages and hustle their fans into getting them made for all to see on the silver screen. "Eerey Tocsin in the Cryptoid Zoo" is one of those works. ... Read more

Product Description
This work, while a supplement to previous titles, is basically a dictionary of animals not recognised by science and of mythical creatures generally. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Very little actual information.
On one hand, this book contains hundreds of mysterious creatures. On the other hand, it features very, VERY little information about them. Some entries say nothing but "This creature was sighted in Utah. The witness thought it had hair all over its body". Gee, so detailed and insightful. Sometimes the author makes an entry, says somebody "reported a sighting of a doglike monster", then acknowledges that he has no further details. If you have no details, why include the report in the first place?! It's so frustratingly vague that there's absolutely nothing to go on - some cases have no name for the witness, others no date, and some have no location!

If you want an exceedingly long list of vague, unsubstantiated "monsters", here's your book. If you want, oh, I don't know, ACTUAL INFORMATION on mysterious creatures, try somewhere else, such as the works of Karl Shuker. Incredibly disappointed.

Not worth the money.
This is nothing more than a short encyclopedia of reported cryptozoological happenings.If you are searching for obscure references, this might be the book for you.I was highly disappointed.

Continuing His Previous Works
Picks-up where his previous Crypto works left off. In many cases a revision of Mr. Coghlan's prior publications but with enough new entries to stand on its own. Well researched.

Things Even I Never Heard Of !!! Enthralling!
I read way too much about cryptozoology, but this was not repetetive. Some of the info has been done before, but even then there is new interesting stuff. Lots of it is new to me. It is a great addition to his previous volume. Both will be used as reference and will be reread to refresh my memory. Definately worth it for any crypto fan. I can only hope for a third volume! ... Read more

Product Description
Harry R. Caldwell was a Methodist missionary to southern China. In Blue Tiger, first published in 1924, he wrote about several of his adventures in that country. An avid hunter and amateur naturalist, he noted the challenges of hunting big-game like serow, big-horn, wapiti, boar, and tiger. He described how hunting man-killing tigers paved the way for effective mission work, and spent several chapters discussing the political landmines of trying to affect peace between soldiers and bandits in an effort to spare villagers caught between the fighting. Of particular interest, Caldwell described a fascinating creature, a blue-morph tiger, that he attempted to capture for science. This non-facsimile reprint includes an additional appendix has been added, in which Roy Chapman Andrews described the hunt for the blue tiger. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A Window Into History
Harry R. Caldwell was my grandfather. The five star rating is, of course, influenced by that but only a little. He was a remarkable man living in a country and a time that is relatively little documented, especially in the first person. He was a humble man of many talents and was known to understate his accomplishments. This book gives us a glimpse, from a Western perspective, of early 20th century China. It reveals a China not yet polluted; a China dominated by war lords, superstition and subsistence living. He was a missionary but also a naturalist, adventurer, explorer and inventor. Quite a number of flora and fauna were brought to attention of the world by him. He was a guide to Roy Chapman Andrews into Outer Mongolia when Mr Andrews discovered fossil dinosaur eggs. The Savage arms corporation used him in their advertising (he once held the world record for a Big Horn Sheep shot in Mongolia). A book could be easily written about his life, but here I am speaking of his book. His writing style is his own - he did not try to be a "Dickens". His subject matter was what interested him - the events of his life. These events, as told in this book, illuminate a small segment of World History in a very entertaining way.

a rare book by a childhood friend of mine
I am amazed and pleased this book is back in print.As a child our neighborsthe Caldwell family, including my mom's best friend, were an impressive group of ex missionaries, scholars and writers, of whom the patron was the 80 year old Harry Caldwell.He had been a lifelong naturalist (over 100,000 exhibits in the Smithsonian, birds nests, eggs, wild animals, etc...), tiger hunter, world record holder for big horn sheep kill, and diplomat in old pre Mao China.

I still remember the time I invited him to my 8th grade camping trip.The first thing my teacher said was he didn't realize my friend, then 80+,was so old, then everyone was quickly amazed that he out walked us, plus knew the name of literally every plant, butterfly, insect, ,,,that we passed in our walk.His hand illustrated book on the butterflies of China is still unpublished to my knowledge because of expense of reproducing hand painted water color illustrations.

We ate at their home, visited with Chinese students from Borneo (now Malaysia), and listened to stories of shooting tigers, (once with onlya 22!), and Kodiac bears.Harry confided that the world famous Roy Chapman Andrews who wrote the preface and appendix in this edition, had actually wet himself in the blind when they were stalking a dangerous animal.Harry himself only says in his book, about the time when he ran out of bullets while surrounded by tigers, "I have never again felt quite the way I did then."

If you want a taste of the old China of the early 20th century, through the eyes of someone who thought small town US life then was too worldly, take a look.As I recall, the writing is not great, but the story is unparalleled.This a China that even today's Chinese citizens likely do not know. ... Read more