Bigfoot to Mothman: A Global Encyclopedia of Legendary Beasts and Monsters

DeMello (anthrozoology, Carroll Coll.; On the Job) takes a cultural approach to examining cryptids and other legendary creatures, which she defines as hidden or secret animals believed to exist at the margins of human society. She expertly explores the dynamic between cryptozoology and mainstream science, the history of cryptids, and the evolution of scientific studies about them. Ninety-four entries are sorted into two major subject areas: cryptids and “Extinct, Invented, or Mythical Creatures Similar to Cryptids.” The Loch Ness monster, the bigfoot, the yeti, and the Jersey devil are covered, plus creatures that might be lesser known in the United States, such as the bunyip (from Australian Aboriginal mythology) and the snakelike Zulu river goddess Mamlambo. There is a representative balance of countries, habitats, and taxonomies, with land creatures, sea beasts, swamp monsters, and shapeshifters galore. The well-written entries provide a wealth of details on geography, history, and folklore, including alternative names, related cryptids, habitats, recent sightings, and suggestions for further reading. At the core of each description is a review of debunking attempts by the science community and the author’s perspective on why people find these monsters so mysterious. The result is a work that is fun, thorough, and thoughtful.