Mythical, legendary and supernatural beings, monsters and creatures Books

Book SynopsisDon't be reckless with your most precious asset - life. This book is your key to survival against the hordes of undead who may be stalking you right now without your even knowing it. The Zombie Survival Guide offers complete protection through proven tips for safeguarding yourself and your loved ones against the living dead.Trade Review'A tome you start reading for fun and then at page 50 you go out and buy a machete just to be on the safe side' New York Post'So straightforward, so sensible and logical that you start to believe the steps needed to outlast a worldwide plague of flesh eating zombies. This practical approach is exactly what makes this book so funny' Fangoria'A bloody-minded, strait-laced manual for evading the grasp of the undead' Time Out'So meticulous and well researched that it's more scary than funny' Esquire

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn exiled princess teams up with the last man she thought she could trust in the start of an immersive debut fantasy series filled with a sizzling reluctant allies-to-lovers romance, a world to get lost in, dangerous quests, and dragon bonds. FEATURED IN WATERSTONES' BEST ROMANTASY BOOKS ROUND-UP 2024**AVAILABLE TO PRE-ORDER NOW!**She is vengeance. He will be her sword. No one in Imirath had ever seen a dragon, until five eggs long thought fossils hatched in the presence of their young princess, Elowen Atarah. Fearing the power his daughter would wield through her soul-bond with the creatures, King Garrick imprisoned her for many years, desperately trying to break the bond that united them, until a daring rescue saved Elowen from his clutches - but left her five precious dragons at his mercy. Years later, Elowen is now a woman determined to free her dragons. Having established a queendom of her own, she is ready to do whatever is necessary to save her people from starvation and seek vengeance against her father. Even if that means leaving the home she built for herself. Or having to align herself with the Commander of Vareveth, Cayden Veles, the most feared and dangerous man in all the kingdoms of Ravaryn and her father's sworn enemy. Cayden promises to help Elowen if she will stand with him and all of Vareveth in the pending war against Imirath. Despite their contrasting motives, Elowen can't ignore their undeniable attraction as together they plot to infiltrate her father's impenetrable castle to steal back her dragons and seek revenge on their common enemy. The pull between Elowen and Cayden becomes impossible to resist, even when trusting each other seems both reckless and essential. But with the threat of war looming over them, the imminent heist will be their most dangerous adventure yet.

Read more less

Book SynopsisDragons are returning to Earth now to prepare us for the Golden Age - and to help you ascend to the Light! Dragons are celestial beings from the angel realms who have been sent here by Source to assist and protect us. They have been serving our planet since its inception and work with the angels in service for the highest good. In this book, world-renowned ascension and Atlantis expert Diana Cooper shares incredibly detailed and practical knowledge about the dragons and how they can support us. You'll discover: · the history of dragons on Earth, how they came to be here and their mission for humanity · the air, earth, fire and water dragons, and how they act as personal companions · the higher frequency and galactic dragons and the wisdom they bring · how to meet your personal dragon guide and how it can help you on your ascension path Through the visualizations and exercises in this book, you'll learn how to attune to dragon frequencies and expand your consciousness. All you have to do is ask - and watch how the dragons co-operate with the angels to fulfil your soul's deepest desires!

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe unmissable finale to New York Times bestselling YA fantasy series THE GILDED ONES, set in an ancient West African-inspired world and perfect for fans of CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE and BLACK PANTHER. Deka is a goddess-in-waiting with the potential to save her people from the brutal ancient goddesses who terrorize her kingdom of Otera. But first she must find the source of her divine power - and if the Gilded Ones find it before she does, they will drain her power and tear Otera apart. Alongside her army of friends, Deka faces the hardest battle of her life - not just with the goddesses but with her own doubts. What if becoming a goddess makes her as evil as the Gilded Ones? And is she ready to leave her earthly life and loves behind? THE ETERNAL ONES is the final thrilling instalment of the epic fantasy series in which a young heroine fights against a world that would dare tame her. Praise for THE GILDED ONES:Namina Forna could be the Toni Morrison of YA Fantasy. - Refinery 29

Read more less

Book SynopsisPresents a fascinating and in-depth look at dragons as well as their clans

Read more less

Book SynopsisA Million Little Monsters is a colouring book designed for monster-lovers of all ages. Inside, there are over 30 spreads packed with all kinds of cute and quirky monsters. Discover werewolves, ghosts, furry monsters and a whole host of spook-tacular critters in this magical kingdom. Lulu Mayo’s instantly recognizable style brings gentle fun and humour to each scene, which kids and adults alike will love bringing to life with colour. The latest title in Lulu Mayo’s bestselling ‘A Million’ series, with a fully foiled cover.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIf men no longer know what they are looking at, there may well be unicorns in the world yet, unknown and glad of it. Living in peace in her lilac wood, the Unicorn didn''t know the world had changed, or that anything had happened to the rest of her kind. Overhearing a chance conversation, she resolves to venture out and discover the truth. The road is dangerous, and the risks are great. If she fails, then unicorns will be lost. Forever.A modern fairy tale, The Last Unicorn is a beloved classic, voted by TIME as one of the 100 greatest fantasy novels of all time. It is fantastical, poignant, wistful and wonderous, showing us the humanity of magic, and the magic of humanity. Available in the UK for the first time in decades, this edition features an introduction by Patrick Rothfuss.

Read more less

Book SynopsisNo one in Imirath had ever seen a dragon, until five eggs long thought fossils hatched in the presence of their young princess, Elowen Atarah. Fearing the power his daughter would wield through her soul-bond with the creatures, King Garrick imprisoned her for many years, desperately trying to break the bond that united them, until a daring rescue saved Elowen from his clutches - but left her five precious dragons at his mercy.Years later, Elowen is now a woman determined to free her dragons. Having established a queendom of her own, she is ready to do whatever is necessary to save her people from starvation and seek vengeance against her father. Even if that means leaving the home she built for herself. Or having to align herself with the Commander of Vareveth, Cayden Veles, the most feared and dangerous man in all the kingdoms of Ravaryn and her father's sworn enemy.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWith their weird combination of animal limbs, or distorted visions of human perception, beasts and creatures can be found in all myths and legends of the world, often used to demonstrate moral or fabulistic stories, and explain extreme natural phenomena. An ideal companion to Gods & Monsters Myths & Tales, this new collection includes more of the most famous and recognizable beasts, with some insight too into the rare and the little known: the Simurgh – the gigantic mythical bird of Persian mythology and literature – mingles with the monstrous Great Head of Iroquois folklore; the Kraken of originally Scandinvavian legend can be found alongside North America's Bigfoot, or Sasquatch if you prefer. Of course, from the Greek and Celtic mythologies come the Phoenix, Scylla and Charybdis, the Unicorn, Satyrs and Fauns, Centaurs and Minotaurs, the Basilisk and the Griffin. And let's not forget the goblins of the Norse, the ogreish monsters of Japanese mythology, the Oni, and the nymphs, fairies and sprites that appear in many different mythological traditions. This truly is a wonderful collection of tales. The Flame Tree Gothic Fantasy, Classic Stories and Epic Tales collections bring together the entire range of myth, folklore and modern short fiction. Highlighting the roots of suspense, supernatural, science fiction and mystery stories the books in Flame Tree Collections series are beautifully presented, perfect as a gift and offer a lifetime of reading pleasure.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn the explosive sequel to Fear the Flames, two fated lovers must unite against warring kingdoms to defend their home and crowns from those who wish to destroy them. Perfect for fans of Rebecca Yarros and Victoria Aveyard.'The kind of book that steals a part of your soul. Intricate, wild, intoxicating, and the perfect balance of fantasy and romance - I couldn't put it down' Imani Erriu, author of Heavenly BodiesShe will claim her throne. He will ignite the realms.Cayden Veles, renowned Demon Commander turned King of Vareveth, overthrew the throne to save Elowen Atarah, the woman he searched for since childhood. Now he's determined to fulfil his quest for revenge against her father, even if it means forcing the only person he's ever wanted into a marriage of political convenience.Elowen Atarah has everything she thought she'd ever want. Finally reunited with her dragons, she now has an army to enact vengeance, but as events transpire, she begins contemplating if she wants more. As her father's only living heir, the Imirath throne is her right and destiny. But fighting and winning a war will require trusting Cayden Veles, her partner in crime and now king to her queen; the man she both longs for and doubts, especially after opening her heart only to become a pawn in his game.Navigating the shifting allegiances among all the kingdoms of Ravaryn will require all their strategy and strength, with devastating and bloody attacks on one side and cut-throat diplomacy for alliances on the other. But Elowen and Cayden must find a way to stand strong within the power they've gained, or risk losing everything.PRAISE FOR FEAR THE FLAMES:'Exactly the kind of story that makes my romantasy-loving heart flutter' NISHA J. TULI'If you're seeking a fantasy book with dragon-bonds, revenge quests, a Daenerys Targaryen-esque heroine and reluctant allies-to-lovers romance, then Olivia Rose Darling's debut will give you all that and more' CULTUREFLY

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhat is the difference between a ghost and a ghoul? How do you tell a good Jinn from a bad one? Where would you find a chimera or a manticore? What did Herodotus have to say about werewolves? In this enchanting little book, television producer and mythozoologist Tam OMalley explores the rich world of mythological animals, from banshees to harpies, griffins to vampires. These ancient beasties still intrigue us today, filling popular novels, screens and imaginations. "Fascinating" FINANCIAL TIMES. "Beautiful" LONDON REVIEW OF BOOKS. "Rich and Artful" THE LANCET. "Genuinely mind-expanding" FORTEAN TIMES. "Excellent" NEW SCIENTIST. "Stunning" NEW YORK TIMES. Small books, big ideas.Table of ContentsIntroduction 1 The Banshee 2 Basilisk and Cockatrice 4 Blemmyae and Sciapods 6 Centaurs and Satyrs 8 Chimera 10 Cyclopes 12 Dragons and Wormes 14 Fairies, Elves, Goblins, Pixies and Gnomes 16 Ghouls 18 The Gorgons 20 The Griffin 22 Harpies and Sirens 24 Hydra and Cerberus 26 Jinn 28 Lamassu and Manticore 30 Leviathan, and Kraken 32 Mandrakes and Dryads 34 Mermaids and Fishmen 36 The Minotaur 38 Nagas and Naiads 40 The Phoenix 42 The Sphinx 44 Trolls 46 Typhon 48 Unicorns 50 Vampires 52 Werewolves and Anubis 54 Living Myths 56 Modern Myths 58

Read more less

Book SynopsisGripping, spirited and sometimes grisly, Spurling's fresh interpretations of these timeless tales bring both their heroes and their context vividly to life, reanimating Apollo, Herakles, Theseus, Perseus and Agamemnon.Trade Review'Arcadian Nights is a brilliant, riveting book that leaves its competitors behind, blinking into the distance, as surely as Theseus left Ariadne' TLS'This book shines... seamlessly interweaving personal and historical perspectives... Arcadian Nights is good fun' Historical Novels Review'Classicists and non-classicists alike will love Arcadian Nights... a great book' Oxford Today'The Greek myths are dusted off from old college readers like Edith Hamilton's Mythology and given new life in this fantastic collection... Well-written, Arcadian Nights will be difficult to put down' New York Journal of Books'An excellent read that examines the intricacies of storytelling and the complexities of human nature' Helena Gumley-Mason, The Lady'Spurling is a first-rate storyteller and this collection should delight everyone from the scholar of Greek myths to one reading them for the first time' We Love This Book

Read more less

Book SynopsisTaking inspiration from the incomparably beautiful and intense poetry of Homer, Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides, Spurling - a lifelong classicist and historical novelist - spins five more myths for contemporary readers.

Read more less

Book SynopsisLast Days: Zombie Apocalypse is a skirmish-scale miniatures game of survival horror. It pits players against each other in a nightmarish near-future where the dead have returned to life and are feasting on the living.Players build their own factions, representing desperate civilians, military personnel, or hardened survivors, and must explore, scavenge, and fight in order to survive another day. Rival gangs are only one of the dangers they face--mindless zombies wander the streets, driven by insatiable hunger and drawn by the sound of combat!A gang''s ability to scavenge is as vital as their combat ability, and players must ensure that they have the resources to survive in this hostile world. Scenarios and campaigns allow you to develop your gang, gain experience, and recruit new henchmen to build up your strength or replace the inevitable casualties of the zombie apocalypse.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Sunday Times bestseller, from the bestselling author of The Bone Season and The Priory of the Orange TreePaige Mahoney has eluded death again. Consigned to a safe house in the Scion Citadel of Paris, she struggles to overcome the trauma of her ordeals.The mysterious Domino Programme has plans for Paige, but she has ambitions of her own. They will lead her from the catacombs of Paris to the glittering hallways of Versailles, with Arcturus Mesarthim at her side. But as her bond with him deepens, their enemies strive to tear them apart. If the rebellion began with them, it could end with them, tooTrade ReviewFiercely intelligent and articulate, Samantha Shannon has been blazing a trail for a new generation of feminist fantasy authors * Grazia *Samantha Shannon’s fantasy series has attracted a large readership and much-deserved praise ... Uniquely different and complex ... The narrative exerts the same vice-like grip as before, with danger, deception, hair’s-breadth escapes and new revelations coming thick and fast * Guardian *This is an ebullient, gloriously complicated fantasy [...] the characters feel grippingly real. Shannon unravels her tangled tale in galloping prose, which will carry even the reluctant readers to the very satisfying end * Telegraph *The fourth book in Shannon’s phenomenal The Bone Season series, The Mask Falling inhabits both gloomy Parisian catacombs and the opulent hallways of Versailles in an unputdownable continuation of the saga * Waterstones.com *For lighter reading I am setting aside … the fourth volume of Samantha Shannon’s series, The Mask Falling. If the BBC are cautious about embarking on the new Pullman trilogy once we get to the end of the (brilliantly realised) original, then Shannon’s books – plucky heroine Paige, a repressive orthodoxy, a supernatural being, clairvoyants, low-life criminal gangs, exotic settings – would be a smart choice * Scotsman *Dark, embattled, highly wrought fantasy * Observer *Fantasy writer Samantha Shannon delivers another large, complex supernatural thriller * SFX *Shannon has continued to build on this imagined world with intricacy, and Paige’s voice comes through to deliver a suspenseful story * Washington Post *Language as rich as a figgy pudding, the best terminology in the genre and gripping, edge-of-the-seat plotting to boot * Daily Mail *A rapid-fire wonder of a book * Marie Claire *Had me gripped as if in a vice, keeping me hostage among the 452 pages until the end, when I was left eager for the next book * Stylist *Dynamic and direct ... There is an exciting breadth to Shannon's world * Evening Standard *A dystopian thriller that delivers * Salon *A massive, intricate story ... in [a] blisteringly paced plot * New York Magazine *Truly extraordinary and thrilling -- Andy SerkisSlick and vivid ... Gives the fantasy genre a refreshing lease of life. The Bone Season is enough to transport even hardened sceptics of the fantasy genre into its imaginative realm * Metro *The world is so carefully constructed [...] weaved with lies and deceit and impossible to predict * Guardian *Once again, Samantha Shannon has proven that she is one of the iconic, groundbreaking authors of her generation. -- Katherine Webber, bestselling author of Twin Crowns

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe final book in the epic and bestselling children's fantasy series that will make you believe in magic Perfect for fans of Cressida Cowell''s How to Train Your Dragon, Michelle Harrison''s A Pinch of Magic, as well as classic children''s fantasy adventures, Narnia and Jumanji.Rose and Arthur are back in Roar, on a voyage that takes them further than they've ever been before: beyond The End.It's an amazing adventure full of secrets, surprises and fairies with fangs but then a mysterious storm changes everything.Shipwrecked on a strange island, they make a shocking discovery Could this be the end of Roar?Jenny McLachlan is the author of several acclaimed teen novels including Flirty Dancing, Stargazing for Beginners and Truly, Wildly, Deeply. Before Jenny became a writer, she was Head of English in a secondary school; she now loves visiting schools as an author and delivering funny and inspiring talks and workshops. The Land of Roar series is Jenny's debut for readers of 8-12.Ben MTrade ReviewThis funny, captivating story is filled with the painful pangs of growing up and the transporting qualities of imagination', Imogen Russell-Williams, Guardian 'A vividly imagined adventure, […] full of heart, humour and a terrifying villain', Fiona Noble, Bookseller 'This is proof, not that it’s needed, that Jenny McLachlan is a writer of enormous heart and versatility. I’m a really big fan', award-winning author, Phil Earle 'Roar is an exhilarating, hilarious, vividly drawn tribute to the power of the childhood imagination, the love of family and the magic we risk losing as we grow up. If you plan to visit one new place in 2019, make it Roar', Sarah Driver, author of The Huntress trilogy

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe third in the fantastically exciting trilogy set in a land ofmagic from the award-winning Philip Reeve. The heroes of GOBLINSand GOBLINS VS DWARVES (9781407134802) continue their adventuresoutside the walls of Clovenstone castle.

Read more less

Book SynopsisSTUNNING DETAIL - Adam Simpson''s strong line makes for a jigsaw experience that is both challenging and richly rewarding, with visual interest on every single piecePERENNIAL APPEAL - Frankenstein''s monster is a character who has transcended the novel to become part of the cultural consciousness. Even if you''ve never read the book you will still enjoy the puzzlePERFECT FOR GIFTING - Appeals to core bookshop and gift-shop audience as well as to a general puzzle audienceGOOD SIZE - Completed puzzle measures 48.5 x 68 cm (19 x 27 in.)Packed with characters from the story, the illustration covers all the key scenes in incredible detail so that every piece has something to capture the imagination. This richly rewarding puzzle is accompanied by an illustrated poster and explanatory text detailing who''s who in the grisly world of Victor Frankenstein and his monster.

Read more less

Book SynopsisColor the hair-raising and frightening monsters and other things that go bump in the night in Zombies, Werewolves, Monsters & Horror. This coloring book will delight hardcore horror fans and those fascinated by all creatures of the night. Whether your affinity for horror began with Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and Bram Stoker’s Dracula, the stories of H. P. Lovecraft and Stephen King, classic films like Nosferatu and Night of the Living Dead, slasher flicks like Halloween and Scream, or modern thrillers like Get Out and M3GAN—there is something for you to color in Zombies, Werewolves, Monsters & Horror. Inside, you’ll find more than 120 pages to color. Each design features detailed illustrations of monsters from disturbing legends, grim stories, an

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA chilling, thrilling collection of 13 haunting tales. From supernaturalthrillers, to contemporary horror; creepy ancient legends,to murders gone wrong - this insatiable anthology is impossibleto put down, and even more difficult to forget. This must-have collectionwill keep you awake and inhabit your darkest dreams.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe #1 New York Times bestselling sequel to A Discovery of Witches, book two of the All Souls series.Look for the hit series ?A Discovery of Witches,? now streaming on AMC+, Sundance Now, and Shudder!Picking up from A Discovery of Witches? cliffhanger ending, Shadow of Night takes reluctant witch Diana Bishop and vampire geneticist Matthew Clairmont on a trip through time to Elizabethan London, where they are plunged into a world of spies, magic, and a coterie of Matthew''s old friends, the School of Night. As the search for Ashmole 782?the lost and enchanted manuscript whose mystery first pulled Diana and Matthew into one another''s orbit?deepens and Diana seeks out a witch to tutor her in magic, the net of Matthew''s past tightens around them. Together they find they must embark on a very different?and vastly more dangerous?journey. ?A captivating and romantic ripping yarn,?* Shadow of Night confirms Deborah Harkness as a master storyteller, able to cast an ?addictive tale of magic, mayhem and two lovers.?**Chicago Tribune

Read more less

Book SynopsisA brand new book in the bestselling NAUGHTIEST UNICORN series the funniest unicorn books EVER! The perfect gift for Bonfire Night and Diwali and for readers of 7+ and fans of The Worst Witch, Bad Nana and Pamela Butchart.Trade ReviewHilarious black-and-white illustrations complement this humorous fantasy adventure. Featuring unicorns of many colours, as well as tons of glitter, lots of rainbows and plenty of farting and poo, there are also underlying themes of diversity, inclusion and positivity. Booktrust

Read more less

Book SynopsisMonsters. Real or imagined, literal or metaphorical, they have exerted a dread fascination on the human mind for many centuries. They attract and repel us, intrigue and terrify us, and in the process reveal something deeply important about the darker recesses of our collective psyche. Stephen Asma''s On Monsters is a wide-ranging cultural and conceptual history of monsters--how they have evolved over time, what functions they have served for us, and what shapes they are likely to take in the future. Asma begins with a letter from Alexander the Great in 326 B.C. detailing an encounter in India with an enormous beast--larger than an elephantthree ominous horns on its forehead. From there the monsters come fast and furious--Behemoth and Leviathan, Gog and Magog, the leopard-bear-lion beast of Revelation, Satan and his demons, Grendel and Frankenstein, circus freaks and headless children, right up to the serial killers and terrorists of today and the post-human cyborgs of tomorrow. Monsters embody our deepest anxieties and vulnerabilities, Asma argues, but they also symbolize the mysterious and incoherent territory just beyond the safe enclosures of rational thought. Exploring philosophical treatises, theological tracts, newspapers, pamphlets, films, scientific notebooks, and novels, Asma unpacks traditional monster stories for the clues they offer about the inner logic of an era''s fears and fascinations. In doing so, he illuminates the many ways monsters have become repositories for those human qualities that must be repudiated, externalized, and defeated. Asma suggests that how we handle monsters reflects how we handle uncertainty, ambiguity, insecurity. And in a world that is daily becoming less secure and more ambiguous, he shows how we might learn to better live with monsters--and thereby avoid becoming one.Trade ReviewAsma's wide-ranging study is accessible and the monsters are fascinating. * Alexander Blasdel, Times Literary Supplement *Hugely entertaining book. * Philip Jacobson, Daily Mail *Absorbing, entertaining survey...an enjoyable and thought-provoking read. * Michael Kerrigan, The Scotsman *Eloquently produced, wideranging study. * Christopher Hawtree, The Independent *A terrific read: cogent and witty and thought-provoking fom start to finish. * Daily Telegraph, Toby Clements *His book is irresistable. * John Carey, Sunday Times *A very readable and surprising history of every sort of monster, from the Biblical to the biotechnical. * Audrey Niffenegger, The Guardian *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction: Extraordinary Beings Part 1 - Ancient Monsters 1 Alexander Fights Monsters in India 2 Monsters Are Nature's Playthings 3 Hermaphrodites and Man-headed Oxen 4 Monstrous Desire Part 2 - Medieval Monsters: Messages from God 5 Biblical Monsters 6 Do Monsters Have Souls? 7 The Monster Killer 8 Possessing Demons and Witches Part 3 - Scientific Monsters: The Book of Nature is Riddled with Typos 9 Natural History, Freaks, and Nondescripts 10 The Medicalization of Monsters 11 Darwin's Mutants Part 4 - Inner Monsters: The Psychological Aspects 12 The Art of Human Vulnerability: Angst and Horror 13 Criminal Monsters: Psychopathology, Aggression, and the Malignant Heart Part 5 - Monsters Today and Tomorrow 14 Torturers, Terrorists, and Zombies: The Products of Monstrous Societies 15 Future Monsters: Robots, Mutants, and Posthuman Cyborgs Epilogue Notes Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisBeginning with nineteenth-century accounts of wildmen roaming the forests of America, the author treks to the Himalayas to reckon with the Abominable Snowman, then takes us to northern California in 1958, when reports of a hairy hominid loping through remote woodlands marked Bigfoot's emergence as a modern marvel.Trade Review"Devotees of Sasquatchiana won't be disappointed." - New York Times Book Review "Buhs is at his amused best when following the exploits of Bigfoot's human handlers - the colorful band of true believers, hoaxers and pseudo-documentarists who constructed this greatest of all shaggy-hominid stories." - Publishers Weekly "The value of Buhs's book is in its synthesizing of the many historical Bigfoot/Sasquatch stories into one readable narrative... summing-up of the state of Bigfoot research and belief today." - Globe and Mail "Proceeding era by era and place by place, Buhs evaluates the stories of encounters with the giant creatures, deconstructs hoaxes, and evaluates genuine studies in service of tracking down the truth." - Booklist "Buhs traces the journey between these perceptions of elusive wild men and discovers a story of twentieth-century shifts in American culture and class. Bigfoot was both a product of the postwar ascendance of mass culture and a reaction to it, capturing the imagination of those who longed to 'touch the really real behind the false front of consumer goods and scientific arrogance.'" - New Yorker"

Read more less

Book SynopsisReinhold Messner is known as one of history's greatest Himalayan mountaineers. He was the first person to climb all 14 of the world's 8,000-meter peaks, many of them solo. Climber, writer, photographer and filmmaker, Messner has published more than 30 books. He is currently an MEP, based in Brussels. He lives in Austria.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA captivatingly illustrated general-interest book confronting the persistent myths of cryptozoology.Trade ReviewLoxton and Prothero have written what may well be the most important work to date on cryptozoology, taking its rightful place in the annals of skeptical literature in particular and scientific literature in general. Abominable Science! is the defining work on cryptozoology of our generation. -- from the foreword by Michael Shermer, author of The Believing Brain: From Ghosts and Gods to Politics and Conspiracies Here, at last, is a scholarly, fully referenced work that presents a thoroughly reasonable, well-argued, skeptical perspective on some of the most iconic 'cryptids,' and it is fun to read and well illustrated to boot. Combining excellent and thorough research, ample references to the cryptozoological literature, and, most important, an appropriately level-headed, critical approach, Abominable Science! offers a novel, refreshing exploration of the world of cryptozoology. -- Darren Naish, National Oceanography Centre, University of Southampton Nearly everyone-scientist and layman alike-would love the Loch Ness monster and other 'cryptids' to be real. Daniel Loxton and Donald R. Prothero, in their riveting exploration of cryptozoology, readily admit that some species (such as the living coelacanth and even the mountain gorilla) remained hidden to human experience until relatively recently. Yet they insist on hard evidence, thus running counter to the preferences of those who prefer to believe. Abominable Science! is a well-told, engaging story of skepticism. Loxton and Prothero present a lucid and compelling case to counter the false claims of cryptozoology. -- Niles Eldredge, American Museum of Natural History, author of Darwin: Discovering the Tree of Life [Abominable Science!] is as valuable for its analysis of the hunted as it is for the light it shines on the still-hopeful hunters. Publishers Weekly Highly recommended for readers looking for scientific but accessible evaluations of the existence of five notable cryptids that have captured our imaginations. Likely to be popular. Library Journal (starred review) Groundbreaking... A must-have. There is nothing else like it. -- Sharon Hill Doubtful News [Loxton and Prothero] offer us a sharp analysis of the quest for unreal critters-cryptids, as they are called-and the people who pursue them, shining an arc light onto the hoaxes and faked photos, the made-up films, faux corpses, delusions, lies and plain bad science that plague the field... [An] entertaining and thoroughly documented book. -- Margaret Wertheim Wall Street Journal The authors, eminent and intrepid sceptics, seek evidence of fabulous big beasts and find nothing but fakes, folklore, pseudo-science and anecdote. -- Iain Finlayson The Times (London) [Abominable Science!] is a never less than rigorous examination of the evidence, and a cultural history of cryptozoology. -- Daniel Cressey Nature A good hard look at cryptozoology... Loxton and Prothero lay bare the psychological roots of why such mythical creatures exist in our own minds. The Scientist Skipping cryptozoology's usual sensationalism, [Abominable Science!] separates history and folklore from hoaxes and fakelore. -- Elisa Neckar Discover [Abominable Science!] successfully reveals the influence of popular culture on what we think we see. -- Henry Gee BBC Focus They offer us a sharp analysis of the quest for unreal critters-cryptids, as they are called-and the people who pursue them, shining an arc light onto the hoaxes and faked photos, the made-up films, faux corpses, delusions, lies and plain bad science that plague the field. -- Margaret Wertheim Barron's [Abominable Science!] goes back to the foundations of the Bigfoot legend and picks off the fur piece by piece. -- Christopher Farnsworth New York Post Fantastically thorough. -- Kyle Hill But Not Simpler blog, Scientific American An exhaustively-researched, color-illustrated volume that details the cultural forces (and often individual people) responsible for shaping these beasts in the public's imagination. -- Justin Hickey Open Letters Monthly Any science and nature collection should consider this a lively and loving acquisition. The Midwest Book Review Abominable Science! is science writing at its best. -- Glenn Dallas San Francisco Book Review The best and most useful book yet on the phenomenon of illusory 'cryptids' like Bigfoot and the Loch Ness monster... Essential. CHOICE Many good laughs... Loxton and Prothero have done a fine job of describing monsters that have an entertainment value for everyone... The Skeptic Abominable Science! takes its place upon the must-have list for cryptid researchers... A definitive volume... Abominable Science! is a sharp sword that cuts through the bogusness of popular monsterology. The Skeptical Inquirer We still have a lot to learn from Bigfoot, and Loxton and Prothero are excellent teachers. -- Harriet Hall Skeptic Abominable Science! has to be regarded as one of the most important books ever written on cryptozoology, as well as one of the most meticulously researched. -- Darren Naish Scientific American's Tetrapod Zoology Blog [Abominable Science!] is fun and interesting, as well as thought-provoking and just a little bit strange. -- Axie Barclay Manhattan Book Review An immaculately produced book rivaling... Abominable Science! is entertaining, informative, and readable. -- Robert Bishop Books & Culture Exceptionally well written, organized and presented... an inherently fascinating read. Informed and informative, thoughtful and thought-provoking, "Abominable Science!" will prove to be an enduringly popular addition to community and academic library collections. The Midwest Book ReviewTable of ContentsForeword, by Michael Shermer Preface Acknowledgments 1. Cryptozoology: Real Science or Pseudoscience? 2. Bigfoot: The Sasquatch 3. The Yeti: The Abominable Snowman 4. Nessie: The Loch Ness Monster 5. The Evolution of the Sea Serpent: From Hippocamp to Cadborosaurus 6. Mokele Mbembe: The Congo Dinosaur 7. Why Do People Believe in Monsters? The Complexity of Cryptozoology Notes Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisA captivatingly illustrated general-interest book confronting the persistent myths of cryptozoology.Trade ReviewLoxton and Prothero have written what may well be the most important work to date on cryptozoology, taking its rightful place in the annals of skeptical literature in particular and scientific literature in general. Abominable Science! is the defining work on cryptozoology of our generation. -- from the foreword by Michael Shermer, author of The Believing Brain: From Ghosts and Gods to Politics and Conspiracies Here, at last, is a scholarly, fully referenced work that presents a thoroughly reasonable, well-argued, skeptical perspective on some of the most iconic 'cryptids,' and it is fun to read and well illustrated to boot. Combining excellent and thorough research, ample references to the cryptozoological literature, and, most important, an appropriately level-headed, critical approach, Abominable Science! offers a novel, refreshing exploration of the world of cryptozoology. -- Darren Naish, National Oceanography Centre, University of Southampton Nearly everyone-scientist and layman alike-would love the Loch Ness monster and other 'cryptids' to be real. Daniel Loxton and Donald R. Prothero, in their riveting exploration of cryptozoology, readily admit that some species (such as the living coelacanth and even the mountain gorilla) remained hidden to human experience until relatively recently. Yet they insist on hard evidence, thus running counter to the preferences of those who prefer to believe. Abominable Science! is a well-told, engaging story of skepticism. Loxton and Prothero present a lucid and compelling case to counter the false claims of cryptozoology. -- Niles Eldredge, American Museum of Natural History, author of Darwin: Discovering the Tree of Life [Abominable Science!] is as valuable for its analysis of the hunted as it is for the light it shines on the still-hopeful hunters. Publishers Weekly Highly recommended for readers looking for scientific but accessible evaluations of the existence of five notable cryptids that have captured our imaginations. Likely to be popular. Library Journal (starred review) Groundbreaking... A must-have. There is nothing else like it. -- Sharon Hill Doubtful News [Loxton and Prothero] offer us a sharp analysis of the quest for unreal critters-cryptids, as they are called-and the people who pursue them, shining an arc light onto the hoaxes and faked photos, the made-up films, faux corpses, delusions, lies and plain bad science that plague the field... [An] entertaining and thoroughly documented book. -- Margaret Wertheim Wall Street Journal The authors, eminent and intrepid sceptics, seek evidence of fabulous big beasts and find nothing but fakes, folklore, pseudo-science and anecdote. -- Iain Finlayson The Times (London) [Abominable Science!] is a never less than rigorous examination of the evidence, and a cultural history of cryptozoology. -- Daniel Cressey Nature A good hard look at cryptozoology... Loxton and Prothero lay bare the psychological roots of why such mythical creatures exist in our own minds. The Scientist Skipping cryptozoology's usual sensationalism, [Abominable Science!] separates history and folklore from hoaxes and fakelore. -- Elisa Neckar Discover [Abominable Science!] successfully reveals the influence of popular culture on what we think we see. -- Henry Gee BBC Focus They offer us a sharp analysis of the quest for unreal critters-cryptids, as they are called-and the people who pursue them, shining an arc light onto the hoaxes and faked photos, the made-up films, faux corpses, delusions, lies and plain bad science that plague the field. -- Margaret Wertheim Barron's [Abominable Science!] goes back to the foundations of the Bigfoot legend and picks off the fur piece by piece. -- Christopher Farnsworth New York Post Fantastically thorough. -- Kyle Hill But Not Simpler blog, Scientific American An exhaustively-researched, color-illustrated volume that details the cultural forces (and often individual people) responsible for shaping these beasts in the public's imagination. -- Justin Hickey Open Letters Monthly Any science and nature collection should consider this a lively and loving acquisition. The Midwest Book Review Abominable Science! is science writing at its best. -- Glenn Dallas San Francisco Book Review The best and most useful book yet on the phenomenon of illusory 'cryptids' like Bigfoot and the Loch Ness monster... Essential. CHOICE Many good laughs... Loxton and Prothero have done a fine job of describing monsters that have an entertainment value for everyone... The Skeptic Abominable Science! takes its place upon the must-have list for cryptid researchers... A definitive volume... Abominable Science! is a sharp sword that cuts through the bogusness of popular monsterology. The Skeptical Inquirer We still have a lot to learn from Bigfoot, and Loxton and Prothero are excellent teachers. -- Harriet Hall Skeptic Abominable Science! has to be regarded as one of the most important books ever written on cryptozoology, as well as one of the most meticulously researched. -- Darren Naish Scientific American's Tetrapod Zoology Blog [Abominable Science!] is fun and interesting, as well as thought-provoking and just a little bit strange. -- Axie Barclay Manhattan Book Review An immaculately produced book rivaling... Abominable Science! is entertaining, informative, and readable. -- Robert Bishop Books & Culture Exceptionally well written, organized and presented... an inherently fascinating read. Informed and informative, thoughtful and thought-provoking, "Abominable Science!" will prove to be an enduringly popular addition to community and academic library collections. The Midwest Book ReviewTable of ContentsForeword, by Michael Shermer Preface Acknowledgments 1. Cryptozoology: Real Science or Pseudoscience? 2. Bigfoot: The Sasquatch 3. The Yeti: The Abominable Snowman 4. Nessie: The Loch Ness Monster 5. The Evolution of the Sea Serpent: From Hippocamp to Cadborosaurus 6. Mokele Mbembe: The Congo Dinosaur 7. Why Do People Believe in Monsters? The Complexity of Cryptozoology Notes Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisA thrilling and heart-pounding journey through a high-stakes video game world. Now in paperback! Now safely back at home, Ian and Lilli are free to return to normal life. Except there's a major problem: Ian keeps seeing the big bad boss dragon Atreus everywhere, and he can't tell whether it's real or in his imagination. So the internet is no longer an option. That's right. Ian, king of online gaming, is out on the soccer court instead. When Atreus shows up . . . everywhere, he knows he needs his sister. But he's legally obligated to never say Dra-er, the name of the game, so how is he supposed to ask for help?When Ian and Lilli finally sign back online, it's clear that Atreus has truly been released on the open web—and even worse, Ikumi has been kidnapped and imprisoned in a video game. It's back into virtual reality, but this time it's to Mech Ops, a futuristic world of zombies and evil robots—and the game's not

Read more less

Book SynopsisDragonboy and his stuffed-animal friends are stuck at home, feeling as gloomy as the weather. If only they could go outside and discover something. Inside everything is the same as always. Or is it....With patience, kindness, and old treasures made new, best friends Dragonboy, Yellow Kitty, Darwin, Drako, and Simon realize that an adventure can happen anywhere if they listen to each other and follow their hearts.Every time someone shows kindness in this story, hearts appear! Can you find 100 hearts?Don''t miss the other books about Dragonboy:DragonboyDragonboy and the Wonderful Night

Read more less

Book SynopsisWAR DRAGONS. FEARSOME RAIDERS. A DAEMONIC WARLORD ON THE RISE.''5/5 stars'' SFX Magazine When the citizens of Black Keep see ships on the horizon, terror takes them because they know who is coming: for generations, the keep has been raided by the fearsome clanspeople of Tjakorsha. Saddling their war dragons, Black Keep''s warriors rush to defend their home only to discover that the clanspeople have not come to pillage at all. Driven from their own land by a daemonic despot who prophesises the end of the world, the raiders come in search of a new home . . . Meanwhile the wider continent of Narida is lurching toward war. Black Keep is about to be caught in the crossfire - if only its new mismatched society can survive. THE START OF AN UNMISSABLE FANTASY SERIES.''Vibrant and intricate worldbuilding'' Matthew Ward''Epic . . . powerful . . . I really, reaTrade ReviewVibrant and intricate worldbuilding -- Matthew Ward, author of LEGACY OF ASHExcellent characters and wonderful worldbuilding, with a wealth of interesting cultural collisions . . . I'm already excited for the next one! -- Django WexlerEpic . . . powerful . . . I really, really can't recommend this one enough -- Fantasy Inn

Read more less

Book Synopsis''A magical tale of power and sacrifice, manipulation and betrayal'' Melissa Caruso Two siblings. Two nations. One war for it all. Sonya is training to be a Ranger of Marzanna, an ancient sect of warriors who have protected the land for generations. But the old ways are dying, and the rangers have all been forced into hiding or killed off by the invading Empire.When her father is murdered by imperial soldiers, she decides to finally take action. Using her skills as a ranger she will travel across the bitter cold tundra and gain the allegiance of the only other force strong enough to take down the invaders.But nothing about her quest will be easy. Her brother, Sebastian, is the most powerful sorcerer the world has ever seen.And he''s fighting for the empire.The Ranger of Marzanna begins an epic tale of warring siblings, powerful magic and daring adventures. ''This iTrade ReviewSkovron launches his Slavic-influenced Goddess War series with this intricate, well-told fantasy . . . This is epic fantasy done right. * Publishers Weekly on THE RANGER OF MARZANNA *The world-building is solid, the action is nonstop, and Skovron's overall character development is exceptional . . . An undeniable page-turner that will have readers salivating for the next volume of this projected trilogy * Kirkus on THE RANGER OF MARZANNA *The Ranger of Marzanna pits brother against sister in a bewitching, snow-swept world, where political schemes collide with the machinations of a death goddess. A magical tale of power and sacrifice, manipulation and betrayal * Melissa Caruso *

Read more less

Book SynopsisSonya has brought a foreign army to free her country from imperial rule, but her allies may have other goals in the second book of this thrilling epic fantasy trilogy from Jon Skovron. The first battle is over, but war yet looms on the horizon. Sonya and her allies - the foreign Uaine and their armies of the undead - have beaten back the imperial soldiers from the capital city. Now they have the rest of the country to free. Meanwhile, her brother, the famed wizard Sebastian, has retreated with the imperial forces to regroup and lick his wounds. Betrayed by his sister and his wife, the beautiful noblewoman Galina, he will regain control of his life and his country at any cost.Praise for the series''A magical tale of power and sacrifice, manipulation and betrayal'' Melissa Caruso''This is epic fantasy done right'' Publishers Weekly''An undeniable page-turner that will have readers salivating for the

Read more less

Book Synopsis''A stunning tale ripe with political scheming, fascinating magic, and deliciously complicated characters you can''t help but root for. A decadent story that won''t let you go'' Sara Hashem, author of The Jasad HeirFATE IS A CRUEL MISTRESSThe daughter of a powerful but disgraced Blood Worker, Shan LeClaire has spent her entire life perfecting her blood magic, building her network of spies, and gathering every scrap of power she could. Now, to protect her brother, she assassinates their father and takes her place at the head of the family. And that is only the start of her revenge.Samuel Hutchinson is a bastard with a terrible gift. When he stumbles upon the first victim of a magical serial killer, he''s drawn into the world of magic and intrigue he''s worked so hard to avoid - and is pulled deeply into the ravenous and bloodthirsty court of the vampire king.Tasked by the Eternal King to discover the identity of the killer cutting

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom pre-Columbian legends to modern-day eyewitness accounts, this comprehensive guide covers the history, sightings and lore surrounding the most mysterious monsters in America - including Bigfoot, the Jersey Devil and more.Bigfoot, the chupacabra and thunderbirds aren''t just figments of our overactive imaginations - according to thousands of eyewitnesses, they exist, in every corner of the United States. Throughout America''s history, shocked onlookers have seen unbelievable creatures of every stripe - from sea serpents to apelike beings, giant bats to monkeymen - in every region.Author, investigator and creature expert, Linda S. Godfrey, brings the same fearless reporting she lent to Real Wolfmen to this essential guide, using historical record, present-day news reports and eyewitness interviews to examine this hidden menagerie of America''s homegrown beasts.

Read more less

Book SynopsisPart history, part road trip, and part biography, this work tells the story of a group of men whose obsession with Bigfoot turned the giant hominid into an American icon. It also tells of Bigfoot's rise to tabloid stardom in an account that begins with the author's journey to investigate a famous 1967 film clip of a Bigfoot in a California forest.Trade Review"McLeod approaches Bigfoot culture the way Susan Orlean approached orchids ... artfully traces our culture's obsession to walking man-beasts." -- Justin Berton San Francisco Chronicle "A funny, well-written memoir about chasing down the believers." -- Scott Bradfield Bookforum "With prose that's both sensitive and probing, McLeod explores this very human aspect, the tendency to see pictures in the clouds, UFOs in the sky, and fragments of evolution in the woods." -- Andi Diehn Foreword "McLeod writes evocatively of a rich, wondrous ecological area known as 'The Klamath Knot.'" -- Nick Owchar Los Angeles Times Book Review "An entertaining and thoroughly researched travelogue, as much about America's need for mystery as the elusive denizens of the Klamath forests." -- Ben Waterhouse Willamette Week "Compelling." -- Jason Zasky Failure "McLeod approaches Bigfoot culture the way Susan Orlean approached orchids ... artfully traces our culture's obsession to walking man-beasts." -- Justin Berton Kansas City Star "Insightful and amusing." -- Robert Nott Santa Fe New MexicanTable of ContentsIntroduction Part I. The Essential Bigfoot 1. Harrison 2. The Missing Link 3. Bluff Creek 4. The Backup Man 5. The Klamath Knot Part II. Obsession 6. Mountain Devils 7. Show Time 8. Bigfoot Daze 9. Cryptid Wars Part III. Reason and Truth 10. The Goblin Universe 11. Reason and Truth 12. Bigfoot's Kitchen Notes Select Bibliography Index Illustrations

Read more less

Book SynopsisKate Daniels is about to enter a world of gritty magic and dangerous mystery! Vampires, necromancers and mages abound on the city streets, with one kickass heroine in the middleFuture Atlanta is an interesting place to live: one moment magic dominates, and cars stall and guns fail. The next, technology takes over and the defensive spells no longer protect your house from monsters.Here skyscrapers topple under the onslaught of magic; the Pack, a paramilitary clan of shapechangers, prowl through the ruined streets; and the Masters of the Dead, necromancers driven by their thirst for knowledge and wealth, pilot blood-crazed vampires with their minds. Kate Daniels likes her sword a little too much, and she has a hard time controlling her mouth. The magic in her blood makes her a target, and she''s spent most of her life hiding in plain sight. But when Kate''s guardian is murdered, she must choose to do nothing, and remain safe, or to risk her life by pursuing his preternatural killer. Hiding is easy, but the right choice is rarely easy ...Readers are hooked on Magic Bites:''Everything in this story has an edge to it . . . there is humour, but it''s of the drier, more wry, and grimmer variety . . . The stakes are particularly high in this novel, in ways that you need to read to find out'' Goodreads reviewer, ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐''[Kate] is tough, smart, mouthy and a little arrogant. She is my favourite kind of heroine. She doesn''t give in to lengthy emotional blabbering or emotional breakdowns so I love her!'' Goodreads reviewer, ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐''I want to add a gazillion more starts to my rating . . . I love the concept of the shifting magic and technology'' Goodreads reviewer, ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐''Kate is a kickass heroine. She knows how to use her sword better than she knows how to walk in high heels. She is fierce, strong, reliable, faithful to her friends'' Goodreads reviewer, ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ''I love this book. I love this world. I love Kate. It''s still my favourite series. It''s fantastic, it''s a great start, and if you haven''t read it yet, DO IT. And then remember that the books just get better from here, exponentially better'' Goodreads reviewer, ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

Read more less