Conversations from the Pointed Firs 11/5/21: “Mythical Creatures of Maine: Fantastic Beasts from Legend and Folklore”

Host: Peter Neill
Producer: Trisha Badger

Conversations from the Pointed Firs, talking with Christopher Packard, author of “Mythical Creatures of Maine: Fantastic Beasts from Legend and Folklore”. Chris is a full-time high school science teacher, and prior to taking up teaching and writing he worked as an ecological restoration technician, field biologist, naturalist, and outdoor educator. His new book explores rich Maine folklore—tales of humans confronted by strange beasts, both wonderful and terrifying. Based on meticulous research into legend and folk tale, the resulting book is an encyclopedia, a field guide to the mythical creatures that maybe can be found in Maine and beyond—if you’re looking in the right places.

-Maine History
-Nature
-Spirit of place, community
-Logging and the outdoors
-Myth, Legend, Folklore
-Maine writing

Guest:
Christopher Packard, author of “Mythical Creatures of Maine: Fantastic Beasts from Legend and Folklore” published by Downeast Books (September 1, 2021)

About the host:
Peter Neill is founder and director of the World Ocean Observatory, a web-based place of exchange for information and educational services about the health of the ocean. In 1972, he founded Leete’s Island Books, a small publishing house specializing in literary reprints, the essay, photography, the environment, and profiles of indigenous healers and practitioners of complimentary medicine around the world. He holds a profound interest in Maine, its history, its people, its culture, and its contribution to community and quality of life.