Member Reviews
This is an interesting book from DK. The cover is not as alluring as I would hope for the subject matter. The images inside are also not as engaging as the subject matter.
The facts are great and some students would read this. However, I am not sure it would attract students who were not actively looking for this subject matter. I am hesitant to add it to my library.
Thank you to DK and Net Galley for the DRC! All opinions are my own.
Jam pack of information and broken down nicely. Added it to my wishlist to try and get a physical copy. Found this book very instering. 5 star book and really good basic information on the creatures in this book
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for letting me review this book. This was a fun and interesting read. I’ve heard a many of these creatures but some were new to me. This book is a great addition for someone into myths and mythology. It makes you want to take a deep dive and learn more about the interesting creatures within the book.
This book was a treat to read. DK covered supernatural creatures I know and love and new ones from cultures all over the world. I loved the organization that broke the characters into gods and creatures, spirits and demons, magical beings, flesh eaters, hybrids, shapeshifters, and creatures of the sea and sky. The authentic pictures and examples were captivating. I consider myself a firm fantasy and folktale reader and I was able to discover many new creatures.
If you’ve ever found yourself lying awake at night wondering, “Where can I find a real dragon?” or “What’s the proper etiquette when encountering a banshee?” then this is the book you never knew you needed. It’s packed with more than 100 creatures that will have you questioning every rustle in the bushes and every weird noise outside your window at night.
This book is a glorious parade of the world’s most terrifying and fascinating creatures, complete with eye-popping illustrations that’ll make you think twice about going for a midnight stroll. I mean, do you really know the difference between a kappa and a kraken? One might just drag you into a watery abyss, while the other... well, also drags you into a watery abyss. So maybe just stay away from water in general.
The detail here is astounding. The illustrations are so detailed that you’ll almost feel the dragon’s breath on your neck. And the text? It’s like having a knowledgeable tour guide who’s also slightly unhinged, in the best way possible. And for those of us who just want to impress our friends with obscure mythical knowledge, this book is a goldmine.
But let’s be honest, this isn’t just a book; it’s a survival guide. The next time you find yourself face-to-face with a mountain giant or a winged horse, you’ll be glad you took notes. Plus, the historical and cultural context adds a nice touch, making it feel like you’re learning something important instead of just prepping for the next monster mash.
This book is a must-read for anyone who loves mythology, monsters, or just wants to know what might be lurking under their bed.
These are beautifully illustrated, and fun to peruse - every page has something fun to absorb and ponder!
I also loved the historical context given to each creature.
Supernatural Creatures is another gorgeous book by DK! I loved learning all about the creatures from across cryptozoology! I really appreciated the illustrations and photos accompanying each one, and found the facts fascinating even as an adult.
Thanks to NetGalley and D.K. Publishing for the chance to read and review this great compendium! My thoughts and opinions are my own!
This book is an exciting adventure into the world of mythical creatures! It's perfect for kids who love the supernatural. The detailed images and stories bring monsters, dragons, and spirits to life in a way that’s both thrilling and educational. Whether you're curious about how to create a chimera or want to know why banshees scream, this book has you covered. With its mix of historical accuracy and captivating storytelling, it’s a must-have for young readers who love a good spine-chilling tale.
I collect books about monsters and anything supernatural, this book will definitely be added to my library. It was easy and fun to read and I loved the artwork. I’ve already made sure it was in stock at my store.
This was so interesting and there was a lot I did not know about the mythical creatures and some mythical creatures I had never even heard of. I havent finished this entirely but will be ordering a paper copy that my kids and I can try again when theyre a little older.
Thanks DK Publishing and NetGalley for allowing me to review.
DK makes interesting, educational books that are great for supplemental materials for classroom instruction. The DK book on Supernatural Creatures is very entertaining and informative. It also includes pictures of historical artifacts displaying each creature as well as information on literature that the creature is featured in. The book is grouped by category such as gods, hybrids, magical beings, shapeshifters, etc. I will definitely be adding it to my classroom library when it is released.
Thanks to DK Publishing and Netgalley for this eARC.
Dare to step inside the dark realm of mythical monsters, legendary spirits, and terrifying tricksters? In “Supernatural Creatures,” DK invites readers to explore more than 100 eye-catching, jaw-dropping, otherworldly beings in astonishing depth and detail. This complete compendium of the supernatural takes us on a captivating journey through the folklore and myths of various cultures.
From ferocious monsters to dangerous dragons, mountain giants to winged horses, and strange shapeshifters, this book introduces a diverse array of supernatural beings. Each creature comes to life through rare contemporary and authentic images.
DK’s commitment to historical accuracy shines through. The imagery is culturally authentic, allowing readers to appreciate the creatures within their original contexts. Ever wondered how to create a chimera or distinguish a kappa from a kraken? This book has the answers.
Alongside the captivating visuals, the text breaks down each creature, providing insights into their origins, characteristics, and significance. Why do banshees scream at night? Where do real dragons live? Prepare to be both informed and intrigued.
Aimed at readers aged 12 and above, “Supernatural Creatures” strikes a balance between educational content and spine-chilling excitement. It’s perfect for curious minds who crave both knowledge and a touch of the eerie.
Frankly, as an adult it was great fun and it surpassed my expectations!
“Supernatural Creatures” is an immersive experience. Whether you’re a folklore enthusiast, a fantasy lover, or simply someone who enjoys exploring the unknown, this compendium will leave you spellbound. So grab your lantern, tread carefully, and venture into the mystical world where legends come alive! 🌟
Thank you Netgalley for the advance reader copy of Supernatural Creatures by DK in exchange for an honest review. This book has beautiful illustrations and a comprehensive list of supernatural characters. They are organized logically and described colorfully. I really enjoyed looking at this book.
A fascinating DK reference book about supernatural creatures! Gorgeous layouts and pictures on every page.
Fun to read about the origins/inspiration for several creatures seen in popular fantasy books/movies/pop culture. I enjoyed learning about new creatures for the first time, and also learning about the lore of several popular creatures (dragons, fae, etc) from around the world. I always find it fascinating that different cultures, worlds apart in time and geographically, often feature the same creatures in their lore.
Another hit from DK!
Thank you NetGalley and DK for the eARC!
Disclaimer: ARC via Netgalley.
The style of this book is great, and I am pre-ordering a hard copy, do I need to say anything else?
Supernatural Creatures is a guide to the most famous (or popular) creatures of legend. It doesn’t highlight the popular aspect in the choice of what to include but that had to be a factor. The book is divided into different sections sometimes based on where the creatures is located (sea for instance) and sometimes based on what the creature does (helpful or not). Each creature gets one or, more commonly, two pages with an overview, detailing where the creature comes from and major stories associated with it. It is more of introductory compendium than a straightforward collection of folklore. It is a starting point.
To be fair, the book is not perfect, I would have loved to see more from Africa. Indigenous populations are well represented, however. The bulk of material is from the West (largely Europe but North America is included) and Asia (not just China and Japan, thankfully).
The editors do a good job with detailing the various terms that can swirl when discussing legends. The book opens with a discussion of various story types (legend, urban legend and so on) and notes that some legends are sacred stories. This is especially important when dealing beliefs and stories that come from First Nation and Indigenous groups. Those stories are treated with respect.
The book also makes good use of various differences or branches. There is a discussion dealing with the different ways Asia and the West see dragons. There is inclusion of the Loch Ness Monster and Champ, and Meleke-mbembe. It was nice to see all three of them together.
And the format with the art! It is worth the price for the art work alone. DK always does wonderful page spreads and this is no exception. Shoot, I would be shelling out for it even if there was no text.