Strange Animals by Jarod Anderson

 4.5 Stars- There was so much to love about this novel. From the odd creatures, the quirky characters, the mystery surrounding Green, and the setting in the Catskills Mountains, I did not want this novel to end.  I really hope that there is a follow up novel because I want more to the story. 

Green has a near death experience and finds himself drawn to nature.  He leaves everything behind to go to the Catskill Mountains.  Once there he rents a campground plot but really has no idea how to camp. While sleeping in his car the first night he encounters two strange creatures.  He ends up finding out that he has an unusual ability to see cryptids.  He becomes an apprentice to his neighbor who is a cyrptonaturalist and his world is turned upside down.  

There was mystery, action, strange animals, and quirky but lovable characters. I enjoyed the fantasy elements and all of the different animals.  There were some interesting twists as well.  I loved the uniqueness of this novel and highly recommend it. If you are looking for a great story and something a little different you will want to read this novel.