Tales of the Cryptids – Mysterious Creatures that May or May Not Exist

Authors: Kelly Milner Halls, Rick Spears, and Roxyanne Young
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 72 pages
Publisher: Darby Creek Publishing (September 1, 2006)
ISBN-10: 1581960492
ISBN-13: 978-1581960495

Before I found this new book from Darby Creek Publishing, I had never heard the word “cryptids” much less knew the meaning of the word.

But the intriguing illustrations on the cover of the book were a pretty good indication that if I looked inside I would learn a lot more than just one new word.

And I was right about that.

Kids – and those of us who are simply still kids at heart – will love this book. Reading it makes you feel you’re getting the inside scoop on all sorts of mysterious creatures as co-authors Halls, Spears, & Young expose hoaxes and explain many of the mysteries that have surrounded various creepy creatures.

But, what I liked best about this book (in addition to all the detailed pictures and illustrations) was the fact that the co-authors took the time to interview some experts in the field of crytozoology, which, by the way, just means the study of cryptids, animals that may or may not exist.

These interesting interviews with experts help make the book much more than a mere collection of folklore and legends. I mean, gee whiz, if Dr. Jane Goodall, says “there is alot more evidence that crypto-primates DO exist,” than that they don’t, then we can continue to enjoy the thrill of hoping we’ll come across Bigfoot ourselves one day.

I also enjoyed the Cryptidictionary at the back of the book, which included an alphabetic list of mysterious creatures that may or may not exist with a reality index rating for each one.

This middle grade book is perfect for the school or home library. It also provides links to many other interesting websites about cryptids.

Reviewed by Suzanne Lieurance

Links for More Information about the Book and the Co-Authors:

Kelly Milner Halls

Roxyanne Young

Teacher’s Guide to the Book

Tales of the Cryptids

*******************************************