Sam isn't all that thrilled with her new hamster. She would much rather have an exotic, exciting pet like the animals gracing the pages of her copy of Mythological Creatures. She imagines what it would be like to have a unicorn, hippogriff, chupacabra, and jackalope, among many others. While the wow factor of owning such beasts is undeniable, Sam also considers their less desirable traits. Jewel-toned illustrations (created with Photoshop as well as "fairy dust and phoenix ash") show her sitting, fire extinguisher in hand, by a sleeping dragon, and flying through a rainstorm as she exercises her gryphon. Suddenly, a hamster doesn't seem like such a terrible pet after all. Rosy-cheeked, chestnut-skinned, and bespectacled, Sam makes an adorable guide to these unusual creatures, all of which appear in rather friendly incarnations. Though the roster of books about unconventional pets is lengthy, few pack in as many candidates as this one. Kids are sure to get a kick out of this practical glimpse at magical creatures.