Mythopedia: An Encyclopedia of Mythical Beasts and Their Magical Tales

In this global bestiary of fantastical creatures from a variety of cultures, readers encounter evocative descriptions of a magical world-building hare; a shape-shifting pink were-dolphin that transforms into a handsome man; giant batlike creatures that swoop through central African rainforests (per the eyewitness account of “two European explorers”); and flying jellyfish made of flames. Each beast receives a dedicated, lushly illustrated spread, and some get a second spread that features an iconic tale (for example, “Anansi and the Box of Stories”). Vibrant colors and rich details bring these imagined beasts to life. Though the included stories span six regions, only six creatures from various African mythologies are included, and just three from Oceania. Nevertheless, it’s an enticing introduction to the many strange and mysterious beasts populating the human imagination. Ages 7–11. (Sept.)