Loch Ness Uncovered: How Fake News Fueled the Greatest Monster Hoax of All Time

An extensively researched, myth-busting account of the world’s most famous monster hoax-the Loch Ness Monster-and a cautionary tale on the dangers of misinformation.

In 1934, a man was walking by a lake in the Scottish Highlands when he saw a long-necked creature swimming in the water. He grabbed his camera and snapped a photo. When the photo landed on the front page of the Daily Mail, it shattered the belief that paranormal creatures were pure fiction. But amid the monster-hunting craze, complex conspiracies soon emerged. The Loch Ness Monster became more than a mysterious sea creature-it became a phenomenon that caused people to question their assumptions and dig for the truth.

Meticulously researched through primary sources and in-depth interviews with key figures, Loch Ness Uncovered is the fascinating true story of the conspiracy that sparked intrigue worldwide. Complete with archival images, an engaging narrative, and a guide to media literacy, here is a nonfiction book that will transport young readers to the thrilling world of monster mania.

Reviews of Loch Ness Uncovered: How Fake News Fueled the Greatest Monster Hoax of All Time

"Offering a world-class case study in 'fake news,' Siegel analyzes in depth how the legend of a creature hiding in the murky waters of Loch Ness got started….She draws on an array of published resources, including dozens of sensationalistic newspaper stories, to tell her tale, threading in savvy references to the legend?s value for local tourism, the popularity and suggestiveness of monster movies, the discoveries of actual creatures like the colossal squid, the influence of 'confirmation bias' on supposed eyewitnesses, and the media?s preference for highlighting mystery and speculation over facts…It?s hard to imagine a timelier theme." ?Booklist