This book is filled with 240 Monsters and Mythical Creatures from Around the World. From recent creatures like Chupacabras, Jackalopes, and the Australian Drop Bear to ancient foes like the multicultural dragon and the horse-lion Durong Kraison of Thailand, the full range of time is explored here. Creatures are ordered by region, which is why the dragon is described in three separate entries. Many of the monsters will be familiar but many will be new to most people. About every third creature is illustrated using bright colors.
Monsters and Mythical Creatures from Around the World is an excellent tool for horror writers to use for new ideas of horrifying creatures to include in their fiction. The pictures and text are created in a non-dramatic way, which makes this a perfect gift for older children who like monsters. The explanation of the possible cultural reasons for the monsters’ creation was fascinating. For example, the hairless deformed Huallepen is found in Chile and Argentina. When it mates with local sheep and cattle, it causes offspring that look like it—explaining common local birth defects. There is another story explaining how the jackalope was created by taxidermists and later used as tourist bait in a small Wyoming town.
Overall, the book is an interesting read for anyone interested in mythology or monsters from around the world. 4 stars!
Thanks to Red Feather, Schiffer Publishing Ltd. and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
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