Christopher Lubinski: Independent Reading 1

    For my Research paper I did a lot of digging into the world of cryptozoology and discovering the connections they have in sacred place. One book I came across while doing my research was a book about a collection of fantastic creatures called Fearsome Critters. This "guide book" details many of the strange creatures that come from lumber jack folklore. I've always been intrigued by the world of the unknown and find it fascinating to read of accounts and dossiers of people documenting absurd encounters. Though I never used this source in my research paper, I find it interesting how the lumberjack culture adopted many of these myth and legends and the connection they have with the land they are attributed to.

    Many of the cryptids that are recorded in this book have become very popular due to the fame this book received during an age when attractions of the Barmen and Baily variety were popular. Some of the more recognizable ones, such as the Hidebehind, Hodag, and Wampus Cat have been featured in many instances of pop culture getting special appearances in famous Hollywood movies and TV shows.

    It is also worth noting their influence in America's woodlands as well. Though nearly all of the "fearsome critters" discussed in the book are fantasy, they still play a direct role in influencing and shaping the lives of many Americans even though they are fake. Aside from snakes, steep drops, and the occasional large carnivore there is no reason to fear the woods at night in America, yet many people still get a dreadful vide while walking in the forest at night because of our fear of the mysterious and unknown.