The nations "bible of the library world" reviewed Gary R. Varner's book, Creatures in the Mist in its August 15, 2007 issue.

Varner, Gary R. Creatures in the Mist: Little People, Wild Men and Spirit Beings Around the World; A Study in Comparative Mythology. Algora. Aug. 2007. 208p. illus. bibliog. index. ISBN 978-0-87586-546-1. $29.95; pap. ISBN 978-0-87586-545-4. $21.95. FOLKLORE

Varner (The Mythic Forest, the Green Man & the Spirit of Nature) has published another volume in a series of works comparing legends and beliefs from cultures around the world. This latest covers mythological beings including fairies, giants, mermaids, horned creatures, harpies, werewolves, and vampires as well as the folklore of animals and insects. He provides an overview of creatures from ancient times to the present, incorporating examples from European, Asian, African, and Native American traditions. This global comparison emphasizes shared customs and illustrates a universal belief in these mythic beings. Though not a comprehensive look at folklore themes, this book is unique in its focus on the magical creatures of our collective imagination. It is appropriate not only for popular reading collections but also for academic research collections, as sources are cited throughout and a bibliography of resources is included. -Eloise R. Hitchcock, Western Carolina Univ. Lib., Cullowhee, NC