Mythopedia: An Encyclopedia of Mythical Beasts and Their Magical Tales

This collection presents a superficial introduction to a wide range of mythical creatures from around the world, including the Quetzalcoatl, the Kraken, the Grootslang, and the Yeti. The book is divided into geographic sections: the Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Each section covers several mythological monsters, beasts, or animal gods, and brief versions of their associated myths. The two-page spreads are beautifully designed. The book's strength is in its bold and eye-catching artwork. Each color-saturated page provides detailed, vivid illustrations that bring these myths to life. The text is straightforward, although condensing the myths into such short versions means that the names and necessary context overwhelm the narratives themselves. The absence of source notes or citations for any of the stories is certainly a weakness, especially considering the history of colonialism and its impact on the way in which folklore has been repackaged for a mass audience. VERDICT While the art is beautiful, this book is not recommended for most library collections due to the lack of references for any of its mythology or cultural information.—Molly Saunders, Manatee County P.L., Bradenton, FL

In this global bestiary of fantastical creatures from a variety of cultures, readers encounter evocative descriptions of a magical world-building hare; a shape-shifting pink were-dolphin that transforms into a handsome man; giant batlike creatures that swoop through central African rainforests (per the eyewitness account of "two European explorers"); and flying jellyfish made of flames. Each beast receives a dedicated, lushly illustrated spread, and some get a second spread that features an iconic tale (for example, "Anansi and the Box of Stories"). Vibrant colors and rich details bring these imagined beasts to life. Though the included stories span six regions, only six creatures from various African mythologies are included, and just three from Oceania. Nevertheless, it's an enticing introduction to the many strange and mysterious beasts populating the human imagination. Ages 7-11. (Sept.)