Dr. Ernest Drake's Monsterology: The Complete Book of Monstrous Beasts (by Dugald A. Steer)

This latest in the Ologies series of pseudo-nonfiction books covers mythological creatures other than dragons. These are divided into monsters of the land, water, and air, as well as semi-human creatures such as the centaur and harpy. While most of them are from Greek mythology, there are some from other traditions as well. Appendices cover spells and charms, and historical monsterologists. The book includes removable letters, samples of the skin of various creatures, a few tiny booklets, and other interactive items.

For some children, who love to read anything they can get their hands on about mythological creatures, this will be fun -- mainly because of the design and all the interactive doohickeys it comes with, not because of the content. There are many books out there on this topic with a lot more information, but for beginners, this could be an attractive way to start. The letter you can take out and read; the miniature booklets; the samples of fake monster skin, hair, and feathers; and an ending cabinet full of samples all make this a very appealing object. For kids who are not myth-crazed, though, the appeal will wear off rapidly, and they will find the content somewhat dull.

The publisher recommends this for children ages 6 and up, but kids at the lower end of this age range may find it confusing -- it mixes together fantasy and fact, and presents it all as nonfiction. Even older kids may have difficulty knowing what is real and what isn't. The whole thing, of course, is intended as a joke, but many kids don't read it that way, and some adult assistance may be required.