Matt Kaplan (2) (1977–)

Matt Kaplan's book provides an entertaining catalog of monsters with his speculations about their origins and the science behind what made them possible. Although the reader is forced to accept that all of what Kaplan says about monsters is very speculative, Kaplan provides a good description of the science that he feels is key to understanding the monsters. For example, he postulates that a vampire's aversion to garlic and water is related to the behavior of people with rabies. He also postulates that the origin of the three-headed dog Cerebos or the Chimera were based upon fossil remains or multiple animals that had become mixed together before they were fossilized.

Particularly interesting was his identification of some of the earliest references to monsters like vampires and werewolves. Similarly, he provides a fascinating postulate for the gigantic whirlpool that threatened Odysseus on his trip home.

In summary, the book is entertatining and informative even though you may not be able to accept many of his speculations.… (más)

A non-fiction examination of historical stories and myths that have a magical component to them. The author attempts to scientifically explain if there is any truth to these stories or if there is a scientific explanation. Most of the time the examination is very interesting, but sometimes they amount to a dead end. Majority of the stories are greek mythology, but there are some stories from different cultures. The book title suggests it examines Holy Grail, Love Potions, and Superpowers...which it doesn't really.… (más)