This is a cross cultural encyclopedia of vampire mythology. Each entry includes detailed information on a type of vampire or vampire related phenomenon, including physical description, geographic location, time period, hunting methods, and cultural associations. The reference does not include vampires in fiction or film, blood fetishists, or self-styled vampires. Source material is included at the end of each entry and a twenty-seven page bibliography is provided. A preface describes the process used to define the term "vampire" while an introduction supplies a short history of vampire mythology. Intended as a research tool, this reference will appeal to readers interested in cross cultural vampire myths. Bane is a self-described vampirologist and paranormal author. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)