Geo Rutherford Makes a Splash with New Book“ Spooky Rivers” — Read an Excerpt! (Exclusive)

**Exploring the Sinister Allure of Rivers: Geo Rutherford’s New Book, *Spooky Rivers***

Author and illustrator Geo Rutherford is set to launch her latest literary work, *Spooky Rivers*, which delves into the eerie tales and mysteries surrounding rivers across the globe. After the success of her previous book, *Spooky Lakes*, which attained bestseller status, Rutherford aims to capture a similar intrigue with her new publication released by Abrams Books for Young Readers.

Rutherford shot to prominence during the pandemic, primarily through her series on TikTok titled “Spooky Lake Month.” This initiative showcased unnerving aspects of various bodies of water worldwide, capturing the interest of a growing audience seeking both entertainment and education during a challenging time. With a blend of captivating narratives and unique illustrations, *Spooky Lakes* provided a platform for her to explore this fascinating subject matter.

In *Spooky Rivers*, Rutherford shifts focus to the world’s rivers, examining 25 distinct waterways from the majestic Amazon in Brazil to the historically rich Potomac River in the United States. Her intention with this new title is not to merely entertain readers but to impart a deeper understanding of the complexities and peculiarities that surround these flowing bodies of water.

“While researching this book, I was astonished by the myriad bizarre stories connected to various rivers,” Rutherford commented. “Instead of featuring traditional ghost tales, the rivers highlighted here are eerie because of their strange scientific characteristics, unusual creatures, intriguing histories, environmental crises, and their powerful, often deadly, nature. I hope readers leave with a renewed sense of wonder about the watery world around them.”

One of the prominent rivers featured in *Spooky Rivers* is the infamous Niagara River, a site known for both beauty and peril. As it rushes towards the dramatic plunge of Niagara Falls, the river’s reputation as a dangerous force has been long established. Since records began, it is estimated that around 5,000 lives have been lost at this site, with unfortunate individuals being swept away in its turbulent currents or choosing to embrace its depths in moments of despair.

Not only has Niagara been the scene of tragic accidents, but it also has a dark history of amusement exploitation. In 1827, a horrific publicity stunt involved the ill-fated wreck of the lake schooner Michigan, which was fabricated as a “pirate” ship. Crowds flocked to witness the spectacle, which included a mishmash of animals purportedly on board. As the ship was set adrift towards the falls, it met its demise before ever reaching the brink, with only two survivors recorded: a bear and a one-eyed goose.

Further challenging the allure of the river, a catastrophic event occurred in 1912 when the Niagara ice bridge suddenly collapsed, plunging unsuspecting visitors into chaos. Reacting to the ominous cracking sounds beneath them, individuals scrambled towards safety; however, some were caught on drifting ice. The tragedy resonated with local communities, leading to the end of the traditional practice of venturing onto the icy river in winter.

While the historical narratives of rivers can be grim, they serve as reminders of the unpredictable and often treacherous nature of water. Rutherford’s *Spooky Rivers* seeks to highlight not just the hauntings and legends but also the crucial environmental issues that waterways face today.

The book is filled with vivid illustrations and deep research aimed at captivating both young readers and adults alike. In her characteristic style, Rutherford brings these historical tales to life, ensuring that each story not only informs but also entertains.

*Spooky Rivers* is now available for purchase at various retailers, and for those seeking a page-turning exploration of aquatic mysteries, this new addition to Rutherford’s catalogue is a promising pick. As readers dive into the profound depths of her narratives, they are encouraged to reflect on the swirling waters and the untold stories they conceal.

Overall, Geo Rutherford’s fresh perspective on the mysteries of rivers not only celebrates their beauty but also serves as a cautionary tale about the forces of nature and the delicate balance of life surrounding these powerful waterways.