Dear Readers, 

There is a strange, but true story, behind the tale of the Whistlin' Salamander. Some 45 years ago I was invited to the home of a scientist for dinner. It was in Eugene, Oregon in the early 1970's. 

There was nothing about the outside of the house that would prepare me for what I found inside. We rang the bell and were warmly greeted by our host. When I entered the foyer there was a full length painting of what could only be the fabled deep forest creature called BigFoot. I'm certain my jaw dropped. My host, whose name I promised not to divulge to protect his privacy, appeared delighted at my reaction. 

He said that he was involved in scientific research to study the creature. That was mind-blowing enough, but during dinner he divulged another incredible story which became the basis of my novel. He told us about the existence of a hidden community of Indians located somewhere in Mexico, who referred to themselves as the keepers of knowledge. Their God given purpose was to record and preserve everything ever learned by man so nothing was ever lost. 

My thought at the time was, if it wasn't true, it ought to be. I have held the same thought for 45 years. It is now my honor to introduce the Keepers of Knowledge to the world.