Erin Peabody

Cryptozoology is always a popular topic at any library and I was interested to see a sample from a new series from little bee addressing various mythical beasts. The series will eventually include such famous creatures as the Loch Ness Monster, as well as werewolves and zombies, but the review copy I received was for Bigfoot.

The book opens with an introduction to the legends and myths of giant creatures, then segues into the contemporary legend of Bigfoot. It discusses sightings and occurrences, scientific evidence (and the lack thereof) and finally presents all the facts for readers to decide - does Bigfoot really exist?

The final chapter concludes that there is no scientific evidence for the existence of Bigfoot, and lists the various theories and their explanations. There's still room for mystery though, as the book encourages readers to weigh the evidence, go on a Bigfoot hunt, and decide for themselves.

A few sources are listed as well as further information for those wanting to research Bigfoot online. There are also insets throughout the book with related science facts and investigations. The art in the arc I had was not completed, but it looks like it will be cartoonish with a slightly gruesome/creepy edge. The books are available in both hardcover and paperback.

Verdict: For intermediate readers who can't get enough of weird and creepy creatures, this is a nice, intermediate read that encourages scientific methods and examining news and sources. It's a little on the humorous side for True Believers and won't satisfy those who are convinced that these creatures exist, but it's a perfectly acceptable addition to any nonfiction section.

ISBN: 9781499804263; Published May 2017 by little bee; ARC provided by publisher for review… (més)

The first reports of the beauty and oddity of the Yellowstone region were unbelievable. According to A Weird and Wild Beauty author Erin Peabody, “It spoke of a strange land where the ground gurgled and hissed. A land where scalding waters blew from craters and vats of steaming pink mud threatened to swallow a man whole.” The report was filed by explorer Nathaniel Langford in 1871, who later went on the lecture circuit and inspired Ferdinand Hayden, a leading geologist, to organize a six week expedition. The majority of A Weird and Wild Beauty describes the hardships of the expedition (freezing weather, mountainous regions, wild animals, scarcity of food) and the beauty of the area (geysers, forests, amazing colors, clear waters).
Generously peppered with period photos of the expedition and sidebars explaining items of special interest, Peabody has authored a very readable and informative book on the Nation’s first National Park. Each chapter has a title and opening quote from a noteworthy party. Peabody covers the impact of transcontinental travel on the area, specifically the displacement of Native Americans who considered Yellowstone their home and felt that the geysers had spiritual significance, and the potential to despoil Yellowstone’s natural beauty. She recounts the odd way in which Yellowstone actually became a National Park, making it open to the common man, and how, even in the current era, research continues. The book, which contains numerous resources and photo credits, is perfect for students interested in exploration, adventure and nature.… (més)