In Search of Lake Monsters

Book excerpt: This pioneering classic in the field of cryptozoology covers not only the Loch Ness monster, but lake monsters from all over the world-from the Ogopogo of Canada and the "Patagonian Plesiosaur" of Argentina, to Idaho's "Slimey Slim"' and Sweden's "Storsjo," along with the "Bunyip" of Australia and the strange monsters of South Africa. Peter Costello provides a detailed and fascinating overview of lake monster lore-and gives a convincing explanation of the identity of these elusive denizens. This new edition contains a new Afterword by the author, an Introduction by Loren Coleman, and a Preface by Bernard Heuvelmans, the "father of cryptozoology," who wrote: "Peter Costello authoritatively surveys the whole subject, supporting his arguments with a substantial bibliography, and displaying both the elegance of the born writer and the sense of humor essential to every occasion." "Peter Costello makes a fascinating, sometimes frightening case for the existence of Loch Ness-style 'monsters' in a number of freshwater lakes around the world... There's enough here to unnerve the most hardened skeptic..." - Jerome Clark, "Minneapolis Tribune" "An infectiously enthusiastic reappraisal." - "Sunday Telegraph" "Certainly... the whole work is impressive, and it would seem to be a safe bet that Mr. Costello's book will become a standard reference for anyone interested in its perennially fascinating subject." - "The Canberra Times" "It is the world-wide perspective that makes this book worth reading." - "New Scientist"