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Monstrous: The Lore, Gore, and Science Behind Your Favorite Monsters
Could Dr. Frankenstein's machine ever animate a body? Why should vampires drink from veins and not arteries? What body parts are best for zombies to eat? (It's not brains.) This fascinating encyclopedia of monsters delves into the history and science behind eight legendary creatures, from Bigfoot and the kraken to zombies and more. Find out each monster's origin story and the real-world history that informed it, and then explore the science of each creature in fun and surprising ways. Tips and infographics--including monster anatomy, how to survive a vampire attack, and real-life giant creatures of the deep sea--make this a highly visual and fun-to-browse book.
-- "Journal"
-- "Journal"
148 pages, ebook
First published September 3, 2019
42 people are currently reading
336 people want to read
About the author
Carlyn Beccia
19 books31 followersCarlyn Beccia (pronounced Betcha) is an author, illustrator, graphic designer, and historian. Beccia's children’s books, including Who Put the B In the Ballyhoo?, Raucous Royals, I Feel Better with a Frog In My Throat, Fashion Rebels, and They Lost Their Heads, have won numerous awards including; The Golden Kite Honor, the International Reading Association's Children's and Young Adult Book Award, and the Cybil Award.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
October 30, 2021
Iso suositus tälle! Vaikka keskiössä ovatkin fiktiiviset otukset, on teoksessa todella paljon kiinnostavaa faktaa mm. loisista, syvän meren olennoista ja dinosauruksista. Jos minulla olisi vielä kohderyhmään kuuluvia siskonlapsia, hankkisin tämän joululahjaksi.
August 13, 2019
This book was so fantastic that I want a copy for myself. Love the numerous creatures covered and all the info on both myth and fact. To top it off the artwork is fun and humorous! This would be great from middle grade readers up to adults and should be in all school and public libraries :)
February 24, 2020
If an in-depth look at a multitude of different types of monsters is what your looking for, this is that book. This book goes into so much depth with the various monsters in this informational library formed into pages of a book. Though last time I checked it didn't say anything about the Loch Ness Monster, maybe it did.
July 24, 2020
Loved it!!! I loved how it was just the right amount of monsters and facts! Awesome! I definitely recommend this to any science lover!!!
August 6, 2019
When it comes to "creepy non-fiction" no one does it better than Carlyn Beccia. Her books are SO full of fascinating facts, that readers *of all ages* can't help but be riveted. Throw in some GORGEOUS artwork and you've got books that are really special. As a teacher-type, I love her work because kids are drawn to it for a bit of shock value but her creepy content is SO ANCHORED in fact- in SCIENCE and HISTORY - that kids end up learning so much - and they don't even realize it because they are enjoying themselves. GENIUS.
This book is no different in this regard. I have had the pleasure of an early peek at this one! Readers are going to LOVE it! It delves into so much cool stuff. For lovers of monsters, vampires and zombies but will also appeal to old movie buffs, too. A MUST for your non-fiction section!
Synopsis:
Could Dr. Frankenstein's machine ever animate a body? Why should vampires drink from veins and not arteries? What body parts are best for zombies to eat? (It's not brains.) This fascinating encyclopedia of monsters delves into the history and science behind eight legendary creatures, from Bigfoot and the kraken to zombies and more. Find out each monster's origin story and the real-world history that informed it, and then explore the science of each creature in fun and surprising ways. Tips and infographics―including monster anatomy, how to survive a vampire attack, and real-life giant creatures of the deep sea―make this a highly visual and fun-to-browse book.
September 19, 2020
Monster und andere schaurige Kreaturen hat mich so richtig positiv überrascht. Ich habe ein Buch über Monster erwartet, ein bisschen über die Entstehung und so und was ich bekommen habe sind total viele interessante Informationen und Fakten.
Zunächst zu der wunderschönen Gestaltung. Das Buch ist durchgängig farbig illustriert und bietet durch sein Format jede Menge Platz für die vielen Zeichnungen, aber auch für den dazugehörigen Text. Die Illustrationen haben mir sehr gefallen, sie passend immer zum Text und untermalen das geschriebene. Außerdem stehen sie öfters für sich bzw. sind Schaubilder. Das Design des Buches ist absolut gelungen und wird nicht nur Kinder ab 10 Jahren begeistern.
Es werden verschiedene Monster behandelt, nämlich: Frankenstein, Dracula, King Kong, Godzilla, Werwölfe, Zombies, Monsterkraken oder Bigfoot. Anhand dieser Monster werden unterschiedliche Informationen an den Leser getragen, was ich genial fand. Wer kennt ihn nicht, den trockenen Unterricht, eigentlich könnte das Thema spannend sein, aber es wird lieblos vermittelt. Da ist dieses Buch eine tolle Ergänzung um Wissen zu vermitteln.
Denn man lernt zum Beispiel etwas über Blut beim Thema Dracula, über Atomkraft bei Godzilla und bei Frankenstein etwas über Elektrizität. Bei all diesen Monstern wird Allgemeinbildung vermittelt, aber auch kleine interessante Informationen, die mir selbst noch neu waren. Oder wusstest du etwa, dass ein italienischer Chirurg schon bald einen Kopf (bei einem lebendigen Menschen) transplantieren möchte, Stichwort Frankenstein. Oder das es Parasiten gibt, die ganz Zombie ähnlich die Kontrolle über andere Tiere übernehmen.
So ist das Buch mit vielen interessanten Dingen gespickt, die immer einen Bezug zum jeweiligen Monster haben. Aber natürlich wird auch der Ursprung des jeweiligen Monsters erklärt und ob dies überhaupt so möglich wäre. Deswegen vielleicht auch etwas für Kinder, die Angst vor Monstern haben, da sie so erfahren, dass diese überhaupt nicht möglich sind bzw. es gar nicht so schlimm wäre, wie uns die Literatur weiß macht.
Fazit:
Von mir eine ganz große Empfehlung für dieses wahnsinnig toll gestaltete Buch, in dem es nicht nur um Monster geht.
Sondern auch noch ganz viel Wissen, interessante Fakten und Informationen vermittelt werden.
Ich wünschte, so was gäbe es in der Schule bzw. würde diese Herangehensweise den jeweiligen Unterricht bestimmt viel spannender gestalten.
Zunächst zu der wunderschönen Gestaltung. Das Buch ist durchgängig farbig illustriert und bietet durch sein Format jede Menge Platz für die vielen Zeichnungen, aber auch für den dazugehörigen Text. Die Illustrationen haben mir sehr gefallen, sie passend immer zum Text und untermalen das geschriebene. Außerdem stehen sie öfters für sich bzw. sind Schaubilder. Das Design des Buches ist absolut gelungen und wird nicht nur Kinder ab 10 Jahren begeistern.
Es werden verschiedene Monster behandelt, nämlich: Frankenstein, Dracula, King Kong, Godzilla, Werwölfe, Zombies, Monsterkraken oder Bigfoot. Anhand dieser Monster werden unterschiedliche Informationen an den Leser getragen, was ich genial fand. Wer kennt ihn nicht, den trockenen Unterricht, eigentlich könnte das Thema spannend sein, aber es wird lieblos vermittelt. Da ist dieses Buch eine tolle Ergänzung um Wissen zu vermitteln.
Denn man lernt zum Beispiel etwas über Blut beim Thema Dracula, über Atomkraft bei Godzilla und bei Frankenstein etwas über Elektrizität. Bei all diesen Monstern wird Allgemeinbildung vermittelt, aber auch kleine interessante Informationen, die mir selbst noch neu waren. Oder wusstest du etwa, dass ein italienischer Chirurg schon bald einen Kopf (bei einem lebendigen Menschen) transplantieren möchte, Stichwort Frankenstein. Oder das es Parasiten gibt, die ganz Zombie ähnlich die Kontrolle über andere Tiere übernehmen.
So ist das Buch mit vielen interessanten Dingen gespickt, die immer einen Bezug zum jeweiligen Monster haben. Aber natürlich wird auch der Ursprung des jeweiligen Monsters erklärt und ob dies überhaupt so möglich wäre. Deswegen vielleicht auch etwas für Kinder, die Angst vor Monstern haben, da sie so erfahren, dass diese überhaupt nicht möglich sind bzw. es gar nicht so schlimm wäre, wie uns die Literatur weiß macht.
Fazit:
Von mir eine ganz große Empfehlung für dieses wahnsinnig toll gestaltete Buch, in dem es nicht nur um Monster geht.
Sondern auch noch ganz viel Wissen, interessante Fakten und Informationen vermittelt werden.
Ich wünschte, so was gäbe es in der Schule bzw. würde diese Herangehensweise den jeweiligen Unterricht bestimmt viel spannender gestalten.
August 15, 2020
People have imagined and created some pretty scary monsters: zombies, vampires, Godzilla, etc. But how realistic are they from a scientific POV, really? I loved finding out, for instance, that blood is too high in iron to be a regular part of your diet, or that brains don't have enough calories. I loved the fact that the author lists several theories as to how monster sightings might be true: is the Kraken a giant squid? A giant octopus? A Humboldt squid? How would you survive an attack of any of these monsters? Helpfully, such knowledge can help you in other situations like a nuclear attack (Godzilla) or bear attack (Sasquatch) as well. Each chapter ends with a list of real life creatures that exhibit the characteristics of the scary monster: eg, instead of Godzilla, you really do have radioactive wild boar growing out of control in Scandinavia as a result of the Chernobyl explosion. Or you really do have vampire bats. Cool and spooky!
May 31, 2020
Quite a fun read, and I learned a lot too! It's a campy and serious look at the science, history, and folklore behind some of the world's most famous monsters. In doing so, Beccia playfully (and reverently) addresses one of humankind's biggest preoccupation: the need for knowledge to feel in control of a world in which we are powerless. The chapters are supernatural, but the horrors are steeped in real life phenomena.
A great book for readers who enjoy both the myth and the "monster" behind the curtain. It has a fair bit of science and text, so maybe 4th(ish) grade and up, but still enjoyable for adults. Those with a penchant for hypochondria and doomsdayism should avoid this like the plague, especially the chapters about zombies and Godzilla.
A great book for readers who enjoy both the myth and the "monster" behind the curtain. It has a fair bit of science and text, so maybe 4th(ish) grade and up, but still enjoyable for adults. Those with a penchant for hypochondria and doomsdayism should avoid this like the plague, especially the chapters about zombies and Godzilla.
January 18, 2020
It has been a hot minute since I've read a children's/middle grade book that I enjoyed this much. Run, don't walk, to your nearest book vendor and get this book for all of the monster lovers in your life. There is a lot of text, so this is most definitely a 5-8 book, but I guarantee the boys in your life will adore it. I devoured every word on every page and could see this being a must have for STEM lessons in middle school libraries!
January 24, 2021
This is really a wonderfully informative and entertaining book about the lore, gore, and science behind favorite monsters, just exactly as the subtitle says. You will learn history and science. The author makes connections and comparisons between the legends and likely explanations, between the monsters and real animals or scientific facts. Loved it! Can recommend it to anyone curious about the topic from middle school readers to adults.
January 5, 2020
I'm 23 and I learned a lot! So fun! Artwork is gorgeous!
September 5, 2025
A scientific examination of our most famous monsters. I loved the illustrations. Delightful book. Yet, the part about radiation was an odd one out, and struck me as much scarier than the other parts.
February 28, 2020
This is my new favorite monster book. A must-have for the school library.
December 2, 2024
This book is such a great blend of history, science, and speculation. It does a great job balancing seriousness with humor, creating this weird practicality. I would have read and reread this book as a kiddo!
June 5, 2021
My 11 year old son and I loved sharing this book.
October 22, 2020
UN TERRIFICANTE LIBRO PER RAGAZZI CHE SPIEGA I PRINCIPALI CONCETTI DELLA SCIENZA, DELLA BIOLOGIA, DELLA FISICA E DELLE NEUROSCIENZE, ATTRAVERSO L’IDENTIKIT DI MOSTRI E CREATURE FANTASTICHE.
Halloween si avvicina, in forno cuociono i biscotti e la zucca aspetta di essere intagliata... manca solo un bel libro sui mostri! E se vi dicessi che questa volta non parliamo di un horror, ma di un titolo incredibilmente istruttivo e interessante, che mi ha letteralmente lasciata a bocca aperta? Ebbene sì, I mostri e le avventure della scienza è stata una scoperta a dir poco illuminante, giusto il tempo di spacchettarlo ed è subito stato preso in ostaggio da mio marito e mio figlio, che se lo sono divorato prima di me. Per giorni interi le nostre conversazioni sono state quasi esclusivamente a tema mostri, scienza e curiosità incredibili, ogni volta che ci sembrava di aver fatto delle scoperte pazzesche ecco che ne saltavano fuori altre ancora più folli e interessanti. Come avrete capito questo titolo è piaciuto tantissimo a tutti, ma scendiamo un po' nel dettaglio. Questa splendida opera di Carlyn Beccia si presenta come una bizzarra enciclopedia che, attraverso illustrazioni originali, schemi e nozioni scientifiche, ha lo scopo di presentare ai lettori - giovani e non - quello che si nasconde realmente dietro ai mostri più famosi, amati e temuti della storia. E riesce a farlo in maniera divertente, ironica e appassionante, niente schede noiose o paroloni incomprensibili, anzi, si tratta di una lettura estremamente divertente! Grazie a questo volume potrete farvi un'idea precisa di come funziona il cervello umano, ma anche scoprire cosa mettere nel vostro kit di sopravvivenza nel caso vi trovaste in mezzo a un'apocalisse zombie. Scienza e leggenda si mescolano in queste pagine in maniera scoppiettante e intelligente, senza escludersi a vicenda ma anzi, completandosi. Quanto di reale c'è nelle macabre storie di mostri, vampiri e morti che tornano in vita? Dov'è che finisce la leggenda e inizia la scienza? Non mi vergogno ad ammettere che, fatta eccezione per qualche curiosità legata alle origini di alcuni mostri famosi che già conoscevo, la maggior parte delle informazioni contenute in questo libro mi ha lasciata senza parole. È sicuramente un volume interessante per i più piccoli, ma credetemi, anche per un adulto alcuni passaggi sono a dir poco spaventosi. Approfondire la creazioni di queste figure è stata un'esperienza surreale, ma anche terribilmente istruttiva, che offre moltissimi spunti di riflessione e la consapevolezza che, più che dei mostri sotto al letto, è dell'uomo che dovremmo avere paura.
Consigliarvelo sarebbe riduttivo, ma fidatevi: avete bisogno di questo libro. Non importa se avete 7 anni o 70, se i mostri non vi interessano o se pensate che la scienza sia noiosa: quest'enciclopedia vi conquisterà e vi farà aprire gli occhi, mostrandovi le creature più iconiche sotto una luce mai vista. I più curiosi e appassionati divoreranno un capitolo dopo l'altro, facendo incetta di mostri e curiosità, ma è un volume che si può anche gustare una pagina alla volta, alcune informazioni non sono poi così facili da digerire, credetemi. I mostri e le avventure della scienza non si limita ad essere un bel titolo illustrato adatto ai bimbi, è davvero una piccola perla, ricco di materiale interessante e istruttivo, raccontato con un linguaggio intelligente e brillante. Le tavole dell'autrice sono davvero splendide, creepy ma pulite, e accompagnate da testi sempre chiari e comprensibili.
Insomma, non so più con che parole dirlo: è un piccolo capolavoro, non può assolutamente mancare nella vostra libreria! Perfetto anche da regalare, non solo ad Halloween, ma in qualsiasi periodo dell'anno, penso sia davvero impossibile non apprezzare un lavoro del genere. Non avete più scuse, che sia per la notte del 31 ottobre, per un compleanno o per Natale, questa full immersion nel mondo dei mostri e della scienza vi aspetta, preparatevi ad un viaggio alla scoperta di storie da brividi. E mi raccomando, non scordate di portare il kit di sopravvivenza. Non si può mai sapere...
Il bello della scienza è che dà tante risposte, ma sa anche stimolare il lettore con nuovi interrogativi. I ragazzi riscoprono il gusto dell’indagine e della scoperta, le potenzialità della scienza per il pianeta, come pure la sua distruttività.
Halloween si avvicina, in forno cuociono i biscotti e la zucca aspetta di essere intagliata... manca solo un bel libro sui mostri! E se vi dicessi che questa volta non parliamo di un horror, ma di un titolo incredibilmente istruttivo e interessante, che mi ha letteralmente lasciata a bocca aperta? Ebbene sì, I mostri e le avventure della scienza è stata una scoperta a dir poco illuminante, giusto il tempo di spacchettarlo ed è subito stato preso in ostaggio da mio marito e mio figlio, che se lo sono divorato prima di me. Per giorni interi le nostre conversazioni sono state quasi esclusivamente a tema mostri, scienza e curiosità incredibili, ogni volta che ci sembrava di aver fatto delle scoperte pazzesche ecco che ne saltavano fuori altre ancora più folli e interessanti. Come avrete capito questo titolo è piaciuto tantissimo a tutti, ma scendiamo un po' nel dettaglio. Questa splendida opera di Carlyn Beccia si presenta come una bizzarra enciclopedia che, attraverso illustrazioni originali, schemi e nozioni scientifiche, ha lo scopo di presentare ai lettori - giovani e non - quello che si nasconde realmente dietro ai mostri più famosi, amati e temuti della storia. E riesce a farlo in maniera divertente, ironica e appassionante, niente schede noiose o paroloni incomprensibili, anzi, si tratta di una lettura estremamente divertente! Grazie a questo volume potrete farvi un'idea precisa di come funziona il cervello umano, ma anche scoprire cosa mettere nel vostro kit di sopravvivenza nel caso vi trovaste in mezzo a un'apocalisse zombie. Scienza e leggenda si mescolano in queste pagine in maniera scoppiettante e intelligente, senza escludersi a vicenda ma anzi, completandosi. Quanto di reale c'è nelle macabre storie di mostri, vampiri e morti che tornano in vita? Dov'è che finisce la leggenda e inizia la scienza? Non mi vergogno ad ammettere che, fatta eccezione per qualche curiosità legata alle origini di alcuni mostri famosi che già conoscevo, la maggior parte delle informazioni contenute in questo libro mi ha lasciata senza parole. È sicuramente un volume interessante per i più piccoli, ma credetemi, anche per un adulto alcuni passaggi sono a dir poco spaventosi. Approfondire la creazioni di queste figure è stata un'esperienza surreale, ma anche terribilmente istruttiva, che offre moltissimi spunti di riflessione e la consapevolezza che, più che dei mostri sotto al letto, è dell'uomo che dovremmo avere paura.
Consigliarvelo sarebbe riduttivo, ma fidatevi: avete bisogno di questo libro. Non importa se avete 7 anni o 70, se i mostri non vi interessano o se pensate che la scienza sia noiosa: quest'enciclopedia vi conquisterà e vi farà aprire gli occhi, mostrandovi le creature più iconiche sotto una luce mai vista. I più curiosi e appassionati divoreranno un capitolo dopo l'altro, facendo incetta di mostri e curiosità, ma è un volume che si può anche gustare una pagina alla volta, alcune informazioni non sono poi così facili da digerire, credetemi. I mostri e le avventure della scienza non si limita ad essere un bel titolo illustrato adatto ai bimbi, è davvero una piccola perla, ricco di materiale interessante e istruttivo, raccontato con un linguaggio intelligente e brillante. Le tavole dell'autrice sono davvero splendide, creepy ma pulite, e accompagnate da testi sempre chiari e comprensibili.
Insomma, non so più con che parole dirlo: è un piccolo capolavoro, non può assolutamente mancare nella vostra libreria! Perfetto anche da regalare, non solo ad Halloween, ma in qualsiasi periodo dell'anno, penso sia davvero impossibile non apprezzare un lavoro del genere. Non avete più scuse, che sia per la notte del 31 ottobre, per un compleanno o per Natale, questa full immersion nel mondo dei mostri e della scienza vi aspetta, preparatevi ad un viaggio alla scoperta di storie da brividi. E mi raccomando, non scordate di portare il kit di sopravvivenza. Non si può mai sapere...
Il bello della scienza è che dà tante risposte, ma sa anche stimolare il lettore con nuovi interrogativi. I ragazzi riscoprono il gusto dell’indagine e della scoperta, le potenzialità della scienza per il pianeta, come pure la sua distruttività.
September 5, 2019
Monstrous: The Lore, Gore, and Science behind Your Favorite Monsters by Carlyn Beccia is a children's non fiction book. Could Dr. Frankenstein's machine ever animate a body? Why should vampires drink from veins and not arteries? What body parts are best for zombies to eat? (It's not brains.) This fascinating encyclopedia of monsters delves into the history and science behind eight legendary creatures, from Bigfoot and the kraken to zombies and more. Find out each monster's origin story and the real-world history that informed it, and then explore the science of each creature in fun and surprising ways. Tips and infographics—including monster anatomy, how to survive a vampire attack, and real-life giant creatures of the deep sea—make this a highly visual and fun-to-browse book.
Monstrous is well organized and written. The book offers a historic and scientific background to some of the legends of monsters, magic, and more. The text is well written. It is very informative, with bits of humor throughout. Even when the subject gets a little dense or shares what I would consider fairly well known information, the text never feels unaccessible or condescending. I enjoyed that even while I knew a great deal of the information- as I am a fan or folklore and mythology- there were some new things to learn as well as some deep enjoyment in seeing some of my more esoteric knowledge confirmed or expanded on. I also greatly enjoyed the artwork in the illustrations and the the styles for the backgrounds and infographics. It was on point and helped reinforce the information, keep the reader's interest, and entertain. The combination of fact and fun was pretty much perfect. The author even took the time to mention when science has been wrong, I think this is important to remind all readers because it shows that there is always more to learn and more research that can be done. I was very happy to see a bibliography, glossary, and index in the endpages. Too often I see these things neglected or poorly done in children's non fiction- expecting them to ignore it or not notice. In this book the list of sources and citations was very well done and could result in interested readers doing further reading, investigating, and research on their own. This encouragement always makes me happy.
Monstrous is a well written book that offers the tools of science, history, and a little humor to explain the truth about creatures like vampire, zombie, and more. Good for monster fans, and for giving fact based information that could ease the fears of some that are non so fond of monsters. I just pre ordered this to share with my kids.
Monstrous is well organized and written. The book offers a historic and scientific background to some of the legends of monsters, magic, and more. The text is well written. It is very informative, with bits of humor throughout. Even when the subject gets a little dense or shares what I would consider fairly well known information, the text never feels unaccessible or condescending. I enjoyed that even while I knew a great deal of the information- as I am a fan or folklore and mythology- there were some new things to learn as well as some deep enjoyment in seeing some of my more esoteric knowledge confirmed or expanded on. I also greatly enjoyed the artwork in the illustrations and the the styles for the backgrounds and infographics. It was on point and helped reinforce the information, keep the reader's interest, and entertain. The combination of fact and fun was pretty much perfect. The author even took the time to mention when science has been wrong, I think this is important to remind all readers because it shows that there is always more to learn and more research that can be done. I was very happy to see a bibliography, glossary, and index in the endpages. Too often I see these things neglected or poorly done in children's non fiction- expecting them to ignore it or not notice. In this book the list of sources and citations was very well done and could result in interested readers doing further reading, investigating, and research on their own. This encouragement always makes me happy.
Monstrous is a well written book that offers the tools of science, history, and a little humor to explain the truth about creatures like vampire, zombie, and more. Good for monster fans, and for giving fact based information that could ease the fears of some that are non so fond of monsters. I just pre ordered this to share with my kids.
September 22, 2019
Summary:
This book is about mythical monsters such as vampires, zombies, kraken, and Bigfoot. The author explains ways that the monsters could or could not be real based upon science. Each monster is given its own section of the book, so readers can either read the book straight through or browse the pages that are most interesting.
Evaluation:
I thought this book was very engaging, and it captured my interest from the first page to the last page. The author has a conversational and punchy writing style that makes the informations she presents come alive. I learned so many interesting facts (did you know the U.S. Center for Disease Control actually has a zombie preparedness kit?) and got some inspiration for my next Halloween costume. I like how the author debunks why certain monsters could not be real (e.g., bringing dead people back to life as with Frankenstein) and explores why other monster could potentially be real animals (I learned these are called "cryptids," and Bigfoot is an example). However, the author allows readers to make their own decisions about the existence of these monsters based on the evidence she includes. The bibliography is extensive and there are source notes; the author clearly did her homework.
Teaching ideas:
This book could be used in many ways. There are numerous text features that teachers could either introduce or review with this book. For example, the discussion of Godzilla includes a timeline of different eras and epochs in the history of Earth, and it includes animals like dinosaurs and humans. Teachers could also use the book to teach about the structure of informational books. The pages of the book often include main text along with ancillary information presented in boxes, sidebars, and graphics. Because this format is becoming increasingly common, teachers could model ways of navigating this kind of book.
This book is about mythical monsters such as vampires, zombies, kraken, and Bigfoot. The author explains ways that the monsters could or could not be real based upon science. Each monster is given its own section of the book, so readers can either read the book straight through or browse the pages that are most interesting.
Evaluation:
I thought this book was very engaging, and it captured my interest from the first page to the last page. The author has a conversational and punchy writing style that makes the informations she presents come alive. I learned so many interesting facts (did you know the U.S. Center for Disease Control actually has a zombie preparedness kit?) and got some inspiration for my next Halloween costume. I like how the author debunks why certain monsters could not be real (e.g., bringing dead people back to life as with Frankenstein) and explores why other monster could potentially be real animals (I learned these are called "cryptids," and Bigfoot is an example). However, the author allows readers to make their own decisions about the existence of these monsters based on the evidence she includes. The bibliography is extensive and there are source notes; the author clearly did her homework.
Teaching ideas:
This book could be used in many ways. There are numerous text features that teachers could either introduce or review with this book. For example, the discussion of Godzilla includes a timeline of different eras and epochs in the history of Earth, and it includes animals like dinosaurs and humans. Teachers could also use the book to teach about the structure of informational books. The pages of the book often include main text along with ancillary information presented in boxes, sidebars, and graphics. Because this format is becoming increasingly common, teachers could model ways of navigating this kind of book.
May 29, 2021
Monstrous is monstrously amazing!
The positive impressions of the book starts the moment you feel it in your hands. This is not your normal children's book in any shape or form. Carlyn Beccia goes the extra mile with everything, even the quality of materials used to ensure its durability when in the hands of children. I know this should have nothing to do with rating a book 5 stars (and trust me, its doesn't), she could have easily published this piece on toilet paper and I would still give it 5/5 stars. But it does go to show that her pride in this piece goes as far as the pride I have in now owning a copy of it myself. Mrs. Beccia guides you through the mysteries of Zombies, Bigfoot, the Kraken, Werewolves and a handful of other mythical creatures in a way that is tickles your curiosity in the science of the unknown that you didn't even know you needed in your life. I can guarantee that the moment you open the book yourself you will want to read it just as much as your children. Brilliantly illustrated by none other than Carlyn herself, Monstrous provides the reader with brightly colored pictures that perfectly depict the tons of educational content in this fascinating book. Her genius really shines though when you discover how she makes connections between science and her mysterious subjects to deliver knowledge in categories such as anatomy, physics, survival, and mathematics in ways that will make sure that not only prevent you from being able to put the book down, but also walking away with a greater knowledge of some very important bits of information about yourself and the world you live in. I highly recommend this book not only for children but also for you.
-Jeremy
Host, Infinite Rabbit Hole Podcast
The positive impressions of the book starts the moment you feel it in your hands. This is not your normal children's book in any shape or form. Carlyn Beccia goes the extra mile with everything, even the quality of materials used to ensure its durability when in the hands of children. I know this should have nothing to do with rating a book 5 stars (and trust me, its doesn't), she could have easily published this piece on toilet paper and I would still give it 5/5 stars. But it does go to show that her pride in this piece goes as far as the pride I have in now owning a copy of it myself. Mrs. Beccia guides you through the mysteries of Zombies, Bigfoot, the Kraken, Werewolves and a handful of other mythical creatures in a way that is tickles your curiosity in the science of the unknown that you didn't even know you needed in your life. I can guarantee that the moment you open the book yourself you will want to read it just as much as your children. Brilliantly illustrated by none other than Carlyn herself, Monstrous provides the reader with brightly colored pictures that perfectly depict the tons of educational content in this fascinating book. Her genius really shines though when you discover how she makes connections between science and her mysterious subjects to deliver knowledge in categories such as anatomy, physics, survival, and mathematics in ways that will make sure that not only prevent you from being able to put the book down, but also walking away with a greater knowledge of some very important bits of information about yourself and the world you live in. I highly recommend this book not only for children but also for you.
-Jeremy
Host, Infinite Rabbit Hole Podcast
August 6, 2019
When it comes to "creepy non-fiction" no one does it better than Carlyn Beccia. Her books are SO full of fascinating facts, that readers *of all ages* can't help but be riveted. Throw in some GORGEOUS artwork and you've got books that are really special. As a teacher-type, I love her work because kids are drawn to it for a bit of shock value but her creepy content is SO ANCHORED in fact- in SCIENCE and HISTORY - that kids end up learning so much - and they don't even realize it because they are enjoying themselves. GENIUS.
This book is no different in this regard. I have had the pleasure of an early peek at this one! Readers are going to LOVE it! It delves into so much cool stuff. For lovers of monsters, vampires and zombies but will also appeal to old movie buffs, too. A MUST for your non-fiction section!
Synopsis:
Could Dr. Frankenstein's machine ever animate a body? Why should vampires drink from veins and not arteries? What body parts are best for zombies to eat? (It's not brains.) This fascinating encyclopedia of monsters delves into the history and science behind eight legendary creatures, from Bigfoot and the kraken to zombies and more. Find out each monster's origin story and the real-world history that informed it, and then explore the science of each creature in fun and surprising ways. Tips and infographics―including monster anatomy, how to survive a vampire attack, and real-life giant creatures of the deep sea―make this a highly visual and fun-to-browse book.
This book is no different in this regard. I have had the pleasure of an early peek at this one! Readers are going to LOVE it! It delves into so much cool stuff. For lovers of monsters, vampires and zombies but will also appeal to old movie buffs, too. A MUST for your non-fiction section!
Synopsis:
Could Dr. Frankenstein's machine ever animate a body? Why should vampires drink from veins and not arteries? What body parts are best for zombies to eat? (It's not brains.) This fascinating encyclopedia of monsters delves into the history and science behind eight legendary creatures, from Bigfoot and the kraken to zombies and more. Find out each monster's origin story and the real-world history that informed it, and then explore the science of each creature in fun and surprising ways. Tips and infographics―including monster anatomy, how to survive a vampire attack, and real-life giant creatures of the deep sea―make this a highly visual and fun-to-browse book.
October 11, 2020
I was not sure what I was expecting with this book, but I'm not sure it was a science textbook on mythical monsters. The text is very dense, and deals more often than not with science and history. Despite the title, very little lore is discussed.
Some of the monsters covered include Frankenstein's monster, the kraken, vampires and Bigfoot, amongst many others. The writing could be contradictory, in my view. This book takes a hard stance that none of these creatures, apart from the Kraken, could have existed. Yet, for example when the book discusses werewolves it describes their mannerisms and actions. It doesn't say wolves behave this way, but that werewolves do.
The chapter on the Kraken was, for me, the most enjoyable. It has always been one of my favorite monsters. The science and history behind the Kraken, and its eventual discovery, were interspersed with information about such things as James Cameron's trip to Challenger Deep.
The illustrations are all drawn, no photos. They also have a slightly childlike, cartoonish quality about them. This also extends to the occasional speech bubble that is included.
The book concluded with a lengthy bibliography categorized by each monster.
Some of the monsters covered include Frankenstein's monster, the kraken, vampires and Bigfoot, amongst many others. The writing could be contradictory, in my view. This book takes a hard stance that none of these creatures, apart from the Kraken, could have existed. Yet, for example when the book discusses werewolves it describes their mannerisms and actions. It doesn't say wolves behave this way, but that werewolves do.
The chapter on the Kraken was, for me, the most enjoyable. It has always been one of my favorite monsters. The science and history behind the Kraken, and its eventual discovery, were interspersed with information about such things as James Cameron's trip to Challenger Deep.
The illustrations are all drawn, no photos. They also have a slightly childlike, cartoonish quality about them. This also extends to the occasional speech bubble that is included.
The book concluded with a lengthy bibliography categorized by each monster.
September 15, 2019
I absolutely adored this book. The art was amazing, at times creepy and other times cute, and often blending the two in a most excellent way. The information the book provided was on point. It let you have that supernatural element you’re looking for, but ground you in reality with it too. I especially liked reading the Godzilla part because I’d just listened to a podcast that talked about similar things, about how Godzilla would basically be too big for his body and wouldn’t be able to move. Plus Beccia mentioned The Lost Boys in the vampire section. Automatic favorite book for that.
I know this is being marketed as a children’s book, but the amount of information in here makes me think it’s not for very young kids. Unless they’re super into this stuff and it’ll hold their attention. Otherwise it’s a bit dense for really young kids. Maybe 8 and up would be a good place to start. But hey, if you can start them younger on the creepy and the kooky, I full support that. And MONSTROUS would be a good place to start them.
5
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I know this is being marketed as a children’s book, but the amount of information in here makes me think it’s not for very young kids. Unless they’re super into this stuff and it’ll hold their attention. Otherwise it’s a bit dense for really young kids. Maybe 8 and up would be a good place to start. But hey, if you can start them younger on the creepy and the kooky, I full support that. And MONSTROUS would be a good place to start them.
5
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 7, 2020
So much fun. As mentioned before, all the cryptid books in non fiction make me grumpy with the total skipping of any kind of discussion about critical thinking that most of them have. Tween me would have adored this, and the science aspects it might have nipped some of those weird embarrassing in retrospect middle school interests in the bud. (hey, it was a different world then, X-files was on, fact checking was restricted to what was in the school library...) Adult me still loved this!
The skipping around the sciences, physics through anthropology, a geologic timeline-throwing a lot and seeing what sticks seems like a great way to make a lot of it memorable for later, and having a vague outline of ideas even if you can't remember details can be a huge help for learning science. And there was a solid dash of history too, yay!
(I know the dates make it look like it's not a fast read it totally was. I just had to put it down for a few days when it got to detailed decomposition at the same time I was trying to figure out what to do with my dead pet rabbit.)
The skipping around the sciences, physics through anthropology, a geologic timeline-throwing a lot and seeing what sticks seems like a great way to make a lot of it memorable for later, and having a vague outline of ideas even if you can't remember details can be a huge help for learning science. And there was a solid dash of history too, yay!
(I know the dates make it look like it's not a fast read it totally was. I just had to put it down for a few days when it got to detailed decomposition at the same time I was trying to figure out what to do with my dead pet rabbit.)
April 23, 2020
Fabulous! This is a perfect STEM book and one that you will have to have a wait list for because kids are going to love it. Beccia looks at 8 legendary monsters and their origins in history, and then uses science and mathematics to examine each creature's anatomy and likelihood of existing. Plenty of humor, oddball and often laugh-out loud related topics and terrific illustrations make this one a browser's gem. After all what kid wouldn't want to build a kraken lure or understand how to make a zombie preparedness kit?
The science and math is wonderful here. It is clear and understandable and fascinating as it is woven into this story of one of kids' favorite topics - monsters! Beccia does a great job with the back matter too providing source notes, an extensive bibliography, index and glossary. And don't miss the verso which lists places to avoid going on vacation if you don't want to be eaten by a monster.
I have found the perfect birthday gift for my grandson!
The science and math is wonderful here. It is clear and understandable and fascinating as it is woven into this story of one of kids' favorite topics - monsters! Beccia does a great job with the back matter too providing source notes, an extensive bibliography, index and glossary. And don't miss the verso which lists places to avoid going on vacation if you don't want to be eaten by a monster.
I have found the perfect birthday gift for my grandson!
November 27, 2019
This book was stupendously interesting! It covers 8 famous monster-ish creatures- Frankenstein's monster, vampires, werewolves, Bigfoot, zombies, kraken, King Kong, and Godzilla. We get not only the history of each creature, but the science behind it- what is possible about each, and what isn't, with in depth information to back it up. There is so much information, but it never feels overwhelming or dull, and never talks down to its reader. The artwork is wonderful, dark and colorful, with lots of diagrams, timelines, and charts to help convey the information. The back of the book includes a good glossary, index, and bibliography. This book is so much fun to look at, to flip through, to sit and read from cover to cover! I had a hard time putting it down, and I'm pretty sure my nephews will get a copy of this for Christmas!
#Monstrous #NetGalley
#Monstrous #NetGalley
January 12, 2025
I am a big fan of cryptids and monsters. I picked up this book after reading a preview because I was impressed by the writing. It struck me as being in the same spirit as Bill Nye the Science Guy. Using humor to educate and not talking down to its audience. Despite the book being written for an age range of 9-13, the writing was engaging, informative, and funny. Reading as an adult, I didn't feel like I was being spoken down to or that the writing was so dumbed down that it was boring. In fact, I found the writing to be the exact right level to keep me interested and I even learned a thing or two. The artwork in the book balances the right tone of humor and scientific knowledge to be both fun and informative. I would recommend this book to parents with middle school readers but I also encourage them to read it themselves. It could make for a fun family discussion.
November 9, 2020
This book used a mixture of humor and science to help the reader understand the science behind different creatures and phenomenons that have been speculated about throughout history. This book explains everything from vampires to the kraken and provides this information with a touch of humor. Not only this, but this book invites background information and tone from the author as well. All in all, I liked this book and all of the components in it. If you are looking for a book to explain everything you need to know about monstrous creatures, this book should be your go-to.
December 3, 2020
4.5 Stars I LOVE THIS BOOK! IT was gross, and weird, and interesting and fun! I have recommended it to 5 adults, because the premise is GREAT!
I have to admit the chapters on Vampires I was saying out loud "cool, gross" with a weird look on my face. Then you would hear 5 seconds latter, "Cool, gross!" with another grimace!
It was such fun!
I could have done without the sea monsters, seem like it didn't fit in with Zombies and Werewolves and Bigfoot, but all in all, fun, witty, informational, well illustrated FUN!!!
(This makes my short list...so far)
I have to admit the chapters on Vampires I was saying out loud "cool, gross" with a weird look on my face. Then you would hear 5 seconds latter, "Cool, gross!" with another grimace!
It was such fun!
I could have done without the sea monsters, seem like it didn't fit in with Zombies and Werewolves and Bigfoot, but all in all, fun, witty, informational, well illustrated FUN!!!
(This makes my short list...so far)
December 7, 2020
Monstrous is a lot of fun to read. It’s packed with hilarious illustrations and lots of facts.
There’s a glossary to increase the reader’s vocabulary and plenty of references and resources.
The ‘When Science is Wrong’ page is worth reading all on its own.
Monstrous reminds me of those old books about the Loch Ness Monster and Bigfoot. This book brings some wonder back to the world but doesn’t forget to slip in some solid information too.
Every library needs this book and it’s a must for future cryptozoologists.
There’s a glossary to increase the reader’s vocabulary and plenty of references and resources.
The ‘When Science is Wrong’ page is worth reading all on its own.
Monstrous reminds me of those old books about the Loch Ness Monster and Bigfoot. This book brings some wonder back to the world but doesn’t forget to slip in some solid information too.
Every library needs this book and it’s a must for future cryptozoologists.
January 11, 2021
This book has something for everyone: history, science, storytelling and MATH. From the expected (vampires) to the unexpected (the kraken) there's detailed facts and explanations of so many creatures. I loved the math part where they explain how King Kong would explode but a mouse would be fine after a big fall. The real life monsters also add a lot to the book- Chernobyl wolves for example. I don't know if kids will read this book page-by-page, but they'll surely enjoy flipping through and stopping at pages they're interested in.
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