Genre Four - Nonfiction

BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Simon, Seymour. 1997. STRANGE MYSTERIES FROM AROUND THE WORLD. New York: A Beech Tree Paperback Book. ISBN 0688146376.

PLOT SUMMARY:
In STRANGE MYSTERIES FROM AROUND THE WORLD, Seymour Simon examines nine different unexplained phenomena that continue to have people perplexed and searching for answers. A background of each mystery is provided as well as evidence from the event. Some of the mysteries examined are a Native American crystal skull that people think is possessed and a suspected atomic explosion in Siberia in 1908. Mr. Simon offers explanations that have been considered by experts but ultimately allows the reader to draw their own conclusions about the unexplained events.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
There are nine strange phenomena explained in STRANGE MYSTERIES FROM AROUND THE WORLD. Mr. Simon does a good job explaining the background information on each event and provides primary source evidence from the time. He offers the explanations given by experts and leaves the mystery open to further analysis. Each of the nine chapters is short which allows readers to “complete” a mystery in one sitting. This book can be read straight through or readers can pick and choose stories they read. This aspect is wonderful for readers who will feel successful by reading an entire story in only one chapter without having to complete an entire book. The title of the book has an intrigue that may lure readers to exploring and eventually enjoying this book of non practice.

REVIEW EXCERPTS:
School Library Journal
"Sure to whet the appetites of mystery fans."

Booklist
"Will help in attracting reluctant readers."

CONNECTIONS:
Use this book to encourage reluctant readers to enjoy books.
Have students do a creative writing assignment by “solving” a mystery from the book.
Use the stories and their sources to teach the difference between primary and secondary sources.