Medieval monsters and other creatures by Timothy Ide

Well-known South Australian illustrator Timothy Ide has written and illustrated his first non-fiction book, Medieval Monsters and Other Creatures. This strikingly presented book is full of colour, intricate illustrations showcasing fantastical creatures of the Middle Ages, and easily accessible information explaining each of the creatures mentioned.

The detailed front and back cover folds out to show a castle and village with all sorts of creatures causing a frightening commotion. Included are a fire-breathing dragon, armour-wearing knights in both human and non-human form, snakes, headless or bodyless people, tiny creatures including crabs in various poses and townspeople looking quite perplexed.  The endpapers display a huge gruesome beast in muted purple tones lurking low and staring straight at the reader. This is really setting the scene - what more is in store for those who dare to open the pages?

Even before the trepidatious journey begins, there is a comment about ‘marginalia.’ This is anything written or drawn around the edges of the page in Medieval times. It is decorative and can be humorous and is used for entertaining the reader. Following this is an introduction where readers are prepared for the mystery and potential danger that may be found on the forthcoming pages.

Medieval Monsters and Other Creatures is set out in alphabetical order beginning with the Afanc, a huge water beast from Wales that could cause flash flooding with its violent movements and ending with the Ziphius, a monstrous sea creature that was very territorial and would attack and sink huge ships. In between are many familiar and unfamiliar creatures such as the Pegasus, Hippogriff, Dragon, Tengu, Xintian and Vampire. The information about each creature is highly descriptive and clearly set out among the dramatic illustrations that will provide hours of engagement.

This book would be a popular and fascinating read to add to a non-fiction collection in a home, school or public library.

Themes: Middle Ages - Medieval Times, Monsters, Fantasy, Humour, Tales, Imagination.

Kathryn Beilby