Loch Ness Uncovered

February 1, 2024
Grades 5-8 Offering a world-class case study in "fake news," Siegel analyzes in depth how the legend of a creature hiding in the murky waters of Loch Ness got started in the spring of 1933, quickly became public "knowledge," and has remained alive despite overwhelming evidence that it's (sorry) entirely made up. She draws on an array of published resources, including dozens of sensationalistic newspaper stories, to tell her tale, threading in savvy references to the legend's value for local tourism, the popularity and suggestiveness of monster movies, the discoveries of actual creatures like the colossal squid, the influence of "confirmation bias" on supposed eyewitnesses, and the media's preference for highlighting mystery and speculation over facts. Headlines, movie stills, contemporary photos of those involved in perpetuating the hoax, and select snapshots of "sightings" illustrate this dramatic, authoritative, well-argued expos�, which closes with general guidelines for identifying fake news. Her book isn't, Siegel writes, "about what's under the water. It's about the people above the surface and the stories they tell." It's hard to imagine a timelier theme.

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March 25, 2024
Utilizing a myth-busting framework, Siegel (Mayflower) depicts how “the Loch Ness Monster has transformed into an icon of hope, mystery, and possibility” in this illuminating examination of the “unchecked media... elevated by a disgruntled actor’s hoax” that birthed the tale of this legendary cryptid. Delving deep into the beginnings of the beloved monster of Scottish lore, the author traces Nessie’s fascinating history, starting with its first reported sighting in 1933 and the many supposed pieces of indisputable proof of its existence that followed. Tongue-in-cheek prose renders the publication of a 1934 photo that would seal the deal for millions of believers; it was purportedly taken by Robert Kenneth Wilson (1899–1969), a “great prankster with a wicked sense of humor” and part of a group of practical jokers five-strong. Included statistics relating to rapidly escalating scientific innovation and exploration suggests that the 1930s were a time “in which scientific discoveries came so hot and fast that it was impossible to stay on top of them.” Additional information provided via extensive source notes and interviews with key figures provide an engaging foundation upon which Siegel sets this amusing examination of mythical lore and fact that expands on media’s history of misinformation and its consequences. Concludes with tips for how to identify misinformation. Ages 10–up.

April 1, 2024

Gr 5 Up-The belief in the Loch Ness Monster is often linked to other cryptid encounters and supernatural beliefs that date back many years. However, according to this book, the appearance of the Loch Ness Monster is a relatively new phenomenon. In 1934, a man snapped a grainy photograph of a water creature. The subsequent media frenzy was a meticulously constructed news story that has been sustained by a collection of tricks and pranks perpetrated by popular experts, and published by newspapers more interested in sensational stories than factual news. The perspective of this title differs from others in that it does not focus on the validity of the monster's existence. Rather, it explores in great detail the methods and reasons this hoax was created and perpetuated. As Siegel pulls at each string of the mythology surrounding the Loch Ness Monster, she provides clear analysis of why this myth became a world fascination and still draws countless spectators to the region. Typical readers of the unexplained may be disappointed at this book's perspective, but those who want to be challenged to think critically about misinformation, fake news, and biases will find this a thoughtful and appealing read. VERDICT Tweens will enjoy the fresh approach to the Loch Ness Monster phenomenon; instructors seeking engaging, unconventional books on the topic of fake news will find this an excellent fit.-Patricia Feriano

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