Ever since I wrote that Crypto Country Courier on the Lizard Man, I’ve been itching for more information on him. While most cryptids have their roots firmly planted in the past, what fascinated me was that the Lizard Man doesn’t really make his first appearance until the late 1980s. The fact that a seven foot tall, hairy lizard creature can be discovered in today’s modern world pretty much blew my mind. Which is why I was thrilled to find out about Lyle Blackburn’s Lizard Man: The True Story of the Bishopville Monster.

Blackburn isn’t just a passive investigator here. He goes to the Bishopville to dig deep, and learn the truth about their local legend.

What impressed me the most was the amount of research Blackburn did overall. He conducted in-depth interviews with eyewitnesses and people close to the cases, revisited sighting locations, tested theories, and even went deeper than most. Though the Lizard Man’s time in the spotlight was brief, Blackburn brings it all to light.

Blackburn seems to have a knack for getting ingrained with the locals, and really making readers feel like they are at the heart of the mystery itself. After giving us a description of some of the sightings and witnesses, he dives right in, giving us a feel (and history!) for Scape Ore Swamp, to really set the tone.

Unlike other researchers and cryptozoologists, Blackburn doesn’t lock in on one theory as to the creature’s origins. Instead, he provides background on many different possibilities, ranging from animal misidentification to a Sasquatch to alien reptoids. In the end, the opinion is up to you as to what you want to believe.

The Lizard Man story isn’t just contained in Bishopville, either. Blackburn reaches across the entire country, reporting on similar incidents that may or may not be related, just to give the full berth of the case. Hell, there is even a pop culture guide of sorts, showcasing famous Lizard People, and how they may, or may not, have influenced the case.

Overall, aside from a few typographical errors, the entire book is quite enjoyable. I’m not usually one for books on monster hunts, but Blackburn’s easy-going attitude and conversational style was a refreshing welcome. The fact that he actually got to know the story personally, and the people involved, goes a long way.

Blackburn is a dedicated researched and a credit to the field of cryptozoology. I can’t wait to see what further investigations he writes about next.