04/01/2023
Gr 2–5—The publisher claims this "high-interest, lower-complexity" series "helps" older striving readers. Note the easy, brief, choppy sentences; minimal text per book page (generally five to six sentences); and striking visuals. Able, younger readers will also appreciate the slim, simple, information-packed volumes. Students will know they're in for a treat when they approach these books because each cover asks the tantalizing question, "Do You Believe?" and reminds kids that, though the title creatures aren't real, "they live in our stories." Volumes contain details about creatures' characteristics, personalities, appearances, habits, strengths/weaknesses, powers, and how they're described in other cultures/countries; numerous footnotes contribute additional engaging facts. The series is distinguished by its array of unique, colorful sidebars, which add much to the already fact-filled content. One each appears on a full page per book, though not always in this order: 1) "Explained by Science"—accurate scientific data; 2) "Did You Know?"—a trivia tidbit; 3) "Have You Heard?"—a nonfiction or historical fact extending the topic; 4) "Stay Safe!"—tips on protecting oneself from the creature; 5) "Origins"—how the creature's legend began; 6) "Know the Lingo!"—words about/references to the creature from other cultures; 7) "Real World"—the creature in "real life": the media, a performer, an unusual person, e.g. High-quality full- or half-page color photos, illustrations, paintings, etc., usually captioned, lend strong support. Besides a glossary (with pronunciation guides) and an index, the back matter includes the two-part critical-thinking feature "Consider This!" and "Learn More," a bibliography containing books only. VERDICT Recommended for school and public libraries. This will satisfy older striving readers and younger students who are fans of these always-popular creatures.
