The Olin Library Unofficial Guide to Paranormal Research

Bigfoot in Florida: Mysterious Encounters by Frank Hendersen

The Cryptid Creatures of Florida by Scott Marlowe; Charlie Carlson (Foreword by)

Florida's Unexpected Wildlife by Michael Newton Throughout the world, sightings of animals unrecognized by modern science are reported on a daily basis. Since the 1950s, the study of these "hidden animals" has been known as cryptozoology and though many of the reports have been exposed as hoaxes, some have resisted explanation.   In Florida's Unexpected Wildlife award-winning author Michael Newton describes exotic species recognized by state wildlife authorities; "extinct" species whose passing is disputed or disproved; various aquatic "monsters" said to occupy Florida's rivers, lakes, and offshore waters; alien big cats; and the search for the elusive, enigmatic Skunk Ape--a local relative of Bigfoot. Newton's tales are riveting, and include a six-foot tall emu encountered by a jogger in a subdivision and a "sea serpent" carcass discovered at the mouth of the St. Johns River in the mid-nineteenth century by passengers aboard a schooner. The stories are illustrated with photographs and the incomparable paintings of artist William Rebsamen, hailed as the "John James Audubon of cryptozoology."   While "monster hunters" can use Florida's Unexpected Wildlife as a field guide, casual readers can simply enjoy the many fascinating tales and the wealth of evidence collected in this book. Grab your binoculars and enjoy the quest!

Sun, Sand, and Sea Serpents by David Goudsward Sea Serpent Territory Ever since Columbus spotted mermaids, sea monsters, and mystery lizards in the New World, sightings of a diverse array of marine cryptids have continued unabated in the waters of Florida, the Southeastern coast, and the Caribbean. Dinosaurs, mermaids, and sea serpents in a range of colors and lengths, along with monster sharks, mystery seals, and giant penguins, all seem to have made the tourist-friendly waters of the region their home. In Florida, it became a running joke that the tourist season officially started when the first sea serpent report appeared in the newspapers. What's behind all the reports? Hoaxes? Some certainly are. Yellow journalism? Yes, sometimes. Misidentifications? It's pretty common. A way to drum up business? Shocking, but true. But in that mix, there are probably some unidentified animals as well. David Goudsward digs up the original sources and interviews to sort fact from fiction, and tells some fascinating stories along the way.

The Unquiet Others by R. Chris Yates Florida is known for alligators, pythons, and venomous snakes. In this book, you will meet the other dangers that go bump in the night. R. Chris Yates will introduce you to seventy of the lesser known dangers that lurk in the swamps and wander the beaches of the sunshine state.