The Most Underrated Cryptid, with Rhys Darby
Yeah, that Rhys Darby (!!!!) O.O O.O O.O
From the Writing Desk:
You are going to hear this a million times today and this month, but…
I am SOOOOO glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.
The ‘ber months are quite simply the best part of the year, and I’m really excited to finally be in them.
So, this last month I learned the trick for getting more contract projects and that trick is to not have time for more contract projects hehe. But really though, I’m very grateful.
Basically here’s what’s going on: I’ve got two places where I’ve been fortunate to do some really enjoyable contract work. The first is HarperCollinsUK BigCat series for classrooms, where I’ve had the chance to write a couple chapter books featuring a character with Turner syndrome. The second is LittleFox, an absolutely wonderful Korean company that creates animated English language stories for young ELA learners. (One project I got to work on with them was an adaptation of The Velveteen Rabbit).
It’s been quite a while since I’ve had projects from either of these places, but suddenly I have big projects from both, so I feel incredibly lucky and grateful!
To my patiently waiting adult novel…I promise I haven’t forgotten you. Stick with me a little longer and I promise your turn is just about coming.
I personally prefer to keep things light and upbeat in public places like this, but here’s the other thing that’s been going on—this year, especially this summer, I’ve been feeling held back by a few weird health things. Nothing terribly serious, really just a beaten down immune system and insomnia leading to some hefty and consistent fatigue that’s finally to the point it’s impacting my writing time/brain. But I’m starting to feel on the up and have some doctors visits in the works and am confident this can all be addressed and helped! I say this in case anyone else is also feeling like their brain isn’t up to normal snuff, and to ask for prayers and good vibes as I try and use the brain I do have to tackle these fun and awesome projects. Here we go!
Time always goes by much too fast, but I’m going to really try and relish this best of all months.
(And hey, if you have a minute to leave a brief 1 liner review for The Nightmare House or Monster Tree on Amazon, definitely so so helpful and appreciated.)
Onward!
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The Most Underrated Cryptid, with Rhys Darby (!!!!!)
Holy potatoes. Wow. Let this be a lesson in being presumptious obnoxious foolhardy and making the ask because sometimes the universe (and people) are extraordinarily wonderful and awesome, and sometimes your favorite comedian who recently joined substack responds to your message about cryptids. WOW.
Rhys is also an avid cryptozoologist and the creator and co-host of The Cryptid Factor, which is what made me think he’d be an excellent guest for an October-y post about monsters and cryptids. And make sure to check out his new, hilarious, and excellent substack!
I can’t believe I get to say this, but welcome Rhys!
1. What is something you wish people knew more about cryptozoologists, and studing cryptids? Like, when people talk/write about cryptozoology, what is it that they often get wrong?
Cryptozoologists are actually scientifically minded folk. Zoology is first and foremost in the mind of those who track and follow mystery animals because if proven to exist, they need to be scientifically classified. Quite often people think cryptozoologists are just quirky weirdos! Believe me though, it does help to be quirky because it let's you think outside the box. The 'what if' is something general zoologists don't usually consider.
2. What is your favorite underrated cryptid that you wish more people knew about?
The Flatwoods Monster is a personal fave. 1952 Flatwoods, West Virginia 10ft tall creature with red body, glowing green face and clawed hands. The thing was reported to be partially organic, partially robotic! Definitely came from outer space.
3. Were there certain books or shows that first sparked your interest in cryptids?
X Files of course, but it all kicked off for me with The World of the Unknown- Monsters book by Carey Miller. Then after that, Fortean Times magazines from the UK.
Thank you so, so much Rhys! It was truly an honor, and thank you for your extraordinary talent, time, and generosity! Make sure you check out The Cryptid Factor podcast and check out some of Rhys’ awesome standup too!!
What I’m Reading: This month I’m sending you to a bookshop.org collection full of wonderful spooky middle grade books! And if you’re a teacher, our collection of spooky middle grade authors does virtual classroom visits too!
What I’m Watching: I’m just gonna say it—Scooby Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed is a great movie. Perfect for family spooky season. Truly, Mathew Lillard’s Shaggy is shockingly superb. Well worth it if you haven’t seen this one in a while. (It’s better than the first movie, IMO.)
A DAY IN THE LIFE: I’m picky about my vloggers, tbh, but Craig Benzine (and John and Hank) are my favorites. I found this absolutely delightful and lovely and inspiring and fun. Enjoy!
What I’m Drawing: We’re getting by, y’all.
"I must go in, the fog is rising."
—Emily Dickinson on her death bed.
Writing Opportunity: If you write forest fae stories, you’re in luck! An anthology by Three Ravens publishing is accepting submissions until Nov. 1. Check it out!
Teacher or Librarian? I would love to do a free virtual Q&A with your class or book group! If you’re interested in scheduling a visit you can reach out to me via my website. Let me know how I can support you! I’ve also got free classroom resources to accompany each book. You guys are rock stars!
Thanks for coming along everyone! 1) Subscribe, 2) get a copy of the book bebes, and 3) keep glowing, you shining star you.
-Sarah
Well I’m so glad to live in a world with Octobers, tooooooo! I hope your brain feels better. It’s hard to live let alone write with a tired, fatigued brain 🧠 💖 your contracts sound great and fun, and thanks for the interview! And also the Emily quote at the end…death and fog rising, I love it :)
Yay Octobers and contracts and Emily 😁 Brain is bound to be better in October!