ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hi, I'm Willa!

I've been chasing cryptid stories since I was a kid with a flashlight and a notebook. I still haven't met Bigfoot, but I always pack extra snacks, just in case.

I write field guides for curious kids aged 6 to 10: real legends from around the world, told the not-so-scary way. No nightmares, no gore. Just clues, giggles and one big question at the end: real or legend?

Why not-so-scary?

Because the best part of a mystery is wondering, not being afraid. Every cryptid in my books comes with its baby, and babies are never scary. Well... almost never.

How I check my clues

Every fact in my books is checked against museums, encyclopedias and the work of real scientists, and every source is listed at the back of the book. When a legend belongs to a people's own folklore, like the Bunyip of Aboriginal Australia or the Kappa of Japan, I tell it with respect.

My promise: I'll bring the clues, you make the call.

Say hello

Grown-ups, you can write to me at hello@willathornwood.com. I read every message, especially the ones about Bigfoot sightings.

Real or Legend? Cryptids for Kids

A Not-So-Scary Field Guide to 30 Creatures to Rate & Color