Book Review- The Encylcopedia of Cryptozoology

The Encyclopedia of Cryptozoology
a Global Guide to Hidden Animals and Their Pursuers
by Michael Newton
ISBN: 0-7864-2036-7 | McFarland | 2005
Reviewed by Drew Vics for Strange Encounters

"The Encyclopedia of Cryptozoology, a Global Guide to Hidden Animals and Their Pursuers" by Michael Newton, is an eye opening publication, and long overdue. It sets the record straight and serves as a worthy resource to expand the knowledge of anyone interested in this field. Within the first seven pages Michael Newton convincingly illustrates the important roll of the frequently ridiculed field of study, Cryptozoology.

His observations that "the days of exploration and discovery are not behind us..." compels the reader to delve further into the Encyclopedia of Cryptozoology to see what wonders may await. A fitting quote from Einstein kicks off the journey, and what a journey it is.

Read about fantastic creatures that may exist, including the famous Bigfoot, Sasquatch, Yeti and other unknown hominids, the Loch Ness Monster and a variety of Lake Monsters from around the world. And that's not all, there's room for other mysteries like Alien Big Cats, a new species of owl, giant turtles, a six foot platypus, giant armadillos, mislocated alligators,
and of course the infamous Chupacabras. But these are just a small fraction of what The Encyclopedia of Cryptozoology contains.

As an encyclopedia this book offers more than previously undiscovered and currently unknown animals, it contains detailed information on the people, places and organizations that are part of the colorful history of Cryptozoology. It also contains a share of speculative entries with nothing more than unconfirmed reports to support the story, but Cryptozoology is about the unknown and having an open mind, so let's not let such technicalities stand in the way of a good possibility.

Many great books have been written about Cryptozoology and its various cryptids, as these mystery creatures are known, but this massive volume is long overdue. It has it all, a great introduction to Cryptozoology and comprehensive entries for every reported cryptid from as far back as the 8th century, all presented in a fine looking, large, hardbound edition that sports more than 580 pages, and over 350 photographs and illustrations.

The Encyclopedia of Cryptozoology is a must have for anyone interested in learning more about mystery monsters and unknown creatures from around the world. It comes highly recommended by this lover of the strange and curious.

"The Encyclopedia of Cryptozoology, a Global Guide to Hidden Animals and Their Pursuers" by Michael Newton, is now available from McFarland, www.mcfarland.com, or call their order line at 800-253-2187. Prce: $95.00

Review written by Drew Vics
For Strange Encounters