ALPHABEASTS

A worldwide, alphabetical presentation of cryptids from the files of Monsterlovers Headquarters.

The “professional creature curators,” who are dedicated to researching and safeguarding mythical monsters, provide readers with access to their top-secret files, arranged from A to Z. From the North American Bigfoot to the Chinese Qilin to the Central African Olitiau, a wide range of featured beasts is covered. Each write-up includes height, weight, a description, an interesting fact, and the creature’s “danger level.” Some creatures are labeled with superlatives (“hairiest monster” for the Agogwe and “smelliest” for the Sheepsquatch). Kids will find this a treasure trove of monsters from around the globe. The brightly colored, almost neon illustrations skew cute and approachable rather than spooky, which hits just right for younger elementary school children who aren’t ready for horror and gore. A full-page map at the end of the book shows each monster superimposed on its country of origin. There are few humans depicted here, but those at the Monsterlovers Headquarters are diverse. A blue-haired, tan-skinned child with ponytails is the spokesperson and primary narrator. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

A world of fun for budding cryptozoologists.