North America is rife with tales of regional cryptids: the Jersey Devil, the Fresno Nightcrawler, Ogopogo of Okanagan Lake and the Western jackalope, to name a few.
But of all these cryptozoological mysteries, the most quintessential North American cryptid is undoubtedly Bigfoot. A look at the Bigfoot Field Research Organization’s database shows that Bigfoot sighting reports span the breadth of the United States and most of Canada, with Washington reports far surpassing every other region. Continued tales of sightings, along with the famous Patterson-Gimlin film, have helped to ensconce Bigfoot as a North American icon.
In “The Secret History of Bigfoot: Field Notes on a North American Monster,” journalist John O’Connor seeks to elucidate North America’s most elusive and revered cryptid. Instead of attempting to prove or disprove Bigfoot’s existence, O’Connor delves into the history of the creature in the American mythos.
Through O’Connor’s interviews with Bigfoot hunters and believers, the reader gains a glimpse of the fabled Sasquatch as seen through their eyes. Drawing upon the work of scientists, philosophers, psychologists and economists, “The Secret History of Bigfoot” examines the enduring place of Bigfoot within America’s culture and psyche.
Believers in the supernatural are often the butt of jokes in popular media. However, O’Connor’s handling of his subjects is refreshingly respectful and inquisitive. Whereas many approach life’s mysteries with a healthy dose of skepticism, O’Connor spends time helping us understand the drive to believe in something bigger than ourselves; to believe that there could be more to the world than what we have made of it.
This is the allure of cryptozoology. It is the discovery of something new, and something unspoiled — like a return to a bygone era, or hope for a better future.
“The Secret History of Bigfoot” is a fun and engaging look at the American mythos of Bigfoot and should appeal to readers interested in learning about the history of Bigfoot, the world of monster hunters, and why Bigfoot has taken such a firm hold on the
American imagination.
Visit wcls.org to find “The Secret History of Bigfoot” and other similarly themed stories.
“The Secret History of Bigfoot” is the September selection for the Books & Bites book group. Join Books & Bites at 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at the Blaine Library, 610 3rd St., for a time of community and lively conversation. Details: https://bit.ly/4wZZK6P.
Jonathan Jakobitz is an avid reader and the branch manager of the Blaine Library.
