In the 21st century, a scientist uncovers their Victorian ancestor's notebook in a box. This ancestor is Dr. McCreebor -- an eminent explorer, philosopher, and collector of the very strange and truly creepy. Dr. McCreebor's book is filled with the dark and disturbing stories he has collected on his travels around the world. And now, after over 125 years in a dusty attic, Dr. McCreebor's writings can be read. by only the bravest.

Discover the fascinating stories behind a series of objects, people, and places in every chapter. McCreebor writes from a Victorian perspective -- and his descendant isn't afraid to write notes in the margins, bringing the science into the 21st century. Uncover Artificalia (man-made objects), Naturalia (natural creatures and beings), Spiritualis (the spirit world), Scelere Supplicium (crime and punishment), Scientifica (scientific tools), Magicae (magical objects), and Morteum (skulls, bodies, and more). Steampunk illustrator Celsius Pictor intricately illustrates McCreebor's sketches, maps, records, and photographs. From shrunken heads to witches' charms , saints' blood to graverobbers' remains, hangman's salve to trepanning tools, this book is a peek into our grisly and macabre past.