Rumors of Existence: Newly Discovered, Supposedly Extinct & Unconfirmed

Matthew A. Billie has written a wonderful book, for anyone fascinated with the continual search for the rare and unclassified in the Animal Kingdom. There are so many possibilities of the maybe still out there, that there is hope for even the most endangered. And this book brings out so many times, the times we thought we had lost a species, only to rediscover them in some hidden locale. And I like that. Broken into three parts, we first are wowed with the many recent discoveries, even late into the 20th Century. Recent Discoveries. Then we are enlightened about the thought-to-be-extinct, but rediscovered. Presumed Extinct. And lastly, we enter into the world of the unknown. At least to the non-locals, for to many of the natives, they are just another species they are very aware of. The Mystery Animals. Mr. Billie has done his research well, and shows great knowledge of the animal kingdom. Hopefully, more works in this area will follow from this author.

this is the definitive book on cryptozoology, although short in length. it is very informative and the author has shown a rare intellect and avoidance of sensationalism; if you're looking for bigfoot or loch ness monster, look elsewhere. this book belongs in the science section of a bookstore, not new age. very critically reasoned and an important work. i wish it was longer and more lavishly illustrated. must buy

There are more things in heaven and earth... and, remarkably, Matt Bille has tracked a lot of them down. Furred, hooved, beaked and feathered Bille has assembled a parade of lost, found, forgotten and never suspected creatures. Exhaustively researched, well organized and extremely well written this book ends with a fascinating excursion into the what ifs of the animal kingdom. Anyone who has doubts about the importance of doing our utmost to protect the environment and by extension the diversity of the natural world should be offered this book as proof of the value of preserving both.

Bille does the cryptozoological world a favor by this book which updates recent discoveries, losses, and new leads on unknown and undiscovered animals. It could be argued that, with the amazing discoveries coming out of the Viet Nam jungles, a book of this sort is necessary on a yearly basis, just to keep up! The author does not pursue the "spectacular" cryptids, such as sasquatch or lake monsters, but focuses instead on the very real small primates, fishes and reptiles that make up our world. If I have one complaint, it would be that the author owes us a book on the spectacular ones now