Mysterious Creatures
The Truth Behind the Legends
Published on 14. May 2026
Book
Hardback
232 pages
978-1-5381-9386-0 (ISBN)
Description
A captivating exploration of the world's mysterious creatures
Legendary creatures capture our imagination in a way quite unlike those known with certainty to exist. In Mysterious Creatures, David Alderton and Akara Heart bring readers into a shadowy, uncertain realm where myth and reality collide. Their enthralling investigation unveils the tantalizing truths behind the world's most enigmatic creatures, and how they have become etched in our minds and imaginations. With meticulous research and gripping storytelling, Alderton and Heart unravel the legends of unicorns, dragons, werewolves, and more. Each chapter weaves together historical accounts, eyewitness testimonies, and cultural lore, inviting readers to question what lurks just beyond the veil of the known.
Dive beneath the waves to uncover the seductive secrets of mermaids. Trek through misty, isolated forests in search of Bigfoot or Sasquatch. Soar with the thunderbird, whose wings are said to summon storms. A perfect blend of science and wonder, skepticism and belief, Mysterious Creatures breathes life into the myths that have captivated our thoughts for generations.
Legendary creatures capture our imagination in a way quite unlike those known with certainty to exist. In Mysterious Creatures, David Alderton and Akara Heart bring readers into a shadowy, uncertain realm where myth and reality collide. Their enthralling investigation unveils the tantalizing truths behind the world's most enigmatic creatures, and how they have become etched in our minds and imaginations. With meticulous research and gripping storytelling, Alderton and Heart unravel the legends of unicorns, dragons, werewolves, and more. Each chapter weaves together historical accounts, eyewitness testimonies, and cultural lore, inviting readers to question what lurks just beyond the veil of the known.
Dive beneath the waves to uncover the seductive secrets of mermaids. Trek through misty, isolated forests in search of Bigfoot or Sasquatch. Soar with the thunderbird, whose wings are said to summon storms. A perfect blend of science and wonder, skepticism and belief, Mysterious Creatures breathes life into the myths that have captivated our thoughts for generations.
Reviews / Votes
Wondrous. Alderton and Heart show us that the natural world is just as magical and mysterious as the mythical creatures that have delighted us for centuries. -- Caroline Young, author An enjoyable and fascinating exploration of cryptozoology, vampirism, and lycanthropy, which eruditely reveals the surprising truth behind many of the world's legendary creatures. -- Dr. Keith Souter, medical journalist and novelist An enjoyable delve into the significance and symbolism of our favorite mythical creatures. This fascinating book uncovers the evolution of these legends and the truths that created them. -- Bethany Straker, illustrator and author If you've always wanted to catch a unicorn or a mermaid, this book is essential reading. -- Ged Adamson, children's author and illustratorMore details
Language
English
Place of publication
United States
Publishing group
Bloomsbury Publishing Plc
Target group
Young adult
Interest Age: From 12 to 18 years
Illustrations
20 BW Photos
Dimensions
Height: 159 mm
Width: 237 mm
Thickness: 20 mm
Weight
436 gr
ISBN-13
978-1-5381-9386-0 (9781538193860)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions
E-Book
05/2026
1st Edition
Bloomsbury Academic
€24.49
Available for download
E-Book
05/2026
1st Edition
Bloomsbury Academic USA
€24.49
Available for download
Persons
David Alderton is well known for his books on animals, which have sold some seven million copies worldwide in more than 30 languages. His titles for younger readers include Quest for New Animals and Breakfast with a Bigfoot. David has also been involved in many radio and television programs about animals. He lives in Sussex.
Akara Heart is a writer, artist, and dancer whose work has long been inspired by animals, particularly mythical ones. She has previously worked with David on a variety of film and print projects involving animals. She lives in Glastonbury.
Akara Heart is a writer, artist, and dancer whose work has long been inspired by animals, particularly mythical ones. She has previously worked with David on a variety of film and print projects involving animals. She lives in Glastonbury.
Content
Introduction
1. The Quest for the Unicorn
2. Mermaids and Mermen
3. The World of Dragons
4. The Rise of the Phoenix
5. Vanquishing Vampires
6. The Curse of Werewolves and Dogmen
7. Searching for Bigfoot (Sasquatch)
8. Thunderbirds and Similar Stories
Bibliography
Acknowledgements
Index
About the Authors
1. The Quest for the Unicorn
2. Mermaids and Mermen
3. The World of Dragons
4. The Rise of the Phoenix
5. Vanquishing Vampires
6. The Curse of Werewolves and Dogmen
7. Searching for Bigfoot (Sasquatch)
8. Thunderbirds and Similar Stories
Bibliography
Acknowledgements
Index
About the Authors