The Resurrectionist

The Resurrectionist, 'The Lost Work of Dr. Spencer Black.' by E.B. Hudspeth

Perhaps this book could be classified as 'faction' a hybrid book where fiction is presented as fact, in this case a biography and a scientific journal. 

Part 1 of the book is the biography of Dr. Spencer Black.  The doctor, the son of a grave robber, studied at the Academy of Medicine in Philadelphia during the 1870's.  He was a controversial figure - some people saw him as a genius, but most saw him as a mad man. 

Part 2 of the book is Black's opus, his lifetime's work; 'The Codex Extinct Animalia.'  A collection of anatomical drawings illustrating the anatomy of mythical creatures from throughout history.   Black developed a strange and morbid curiosity of these creatures believing that they were the 'anatomical ancestors of humankind.'  A truly exciting and interesting read followed by a collection of mind-blowing art work. ​