The United States of Cryptids: A Tour of American Myths and Monsters by J. W. Ocker

The United States of Cryptids: A Tour of American Myths and Monsters Reviews

• 
  William Holmes

  This is a light hearted and enjoyable survey of “cryptids” like the legendary Bigfoot and Champ, the monster that supposedly dwells in Lake Champlain. The author’s focus is on regional folklore than on accepting or rejecting the existence of strange beasts. The book features individual entries for the usual cryptid suspects (Bigfoot, assorted regional man beasts, Chupacabra, and lake monsters) as well as for sculptures of imaginary monsters and wholly made up creatures like the Hodag, Wampahoofus and Snollygaster. (Some of the names are worth the price of admission.)
  
  Ocker always includes an assessment of how well the town or state that plays host to the monster has capitalized on its notoriety—some places do it well, and some miss what looks like a golden opportunity. The author seems to be fairly well versed in skeptical views of the cryptids he describes (he’s not credulous), but he doesn’t go out of his way to pick a fight—this is all in good fun and a fine addition to my collection of folklore books.
• 
  Girlsnightin2020

  Everything you need to know about cryptids and where to find them.
  The perfect tour guide for what they are and where you can find them.
• 
  Greenberet

  Nice Fireplace Reading Book!
• 
  Leroy Johnson

  A good introduction for people who are getting into cryptids.
• 
  Will

  I found this guide to be lacking in sense of place.