This book investigates the mechanisms behind the creation, propagation, and eventual verification or debunking of common American urban legends and rumors. Authors Hal Morgan and Kerry Tucker utilize their backgrounds in media and research to dissect the lifecycle of misinformation, arguing that rumors serve as a reflection of societal anxieties and cultural values. By applying a systematic analytical framework, they categorize various myths to determine their origins and the psychological factors that facilitate their rapid dissemination through public discourse.

Critics and readers often cite this work as a accessible entry point for those interested in the study of urban legends and social psychology. Experts note that while the methodology is straightforward, it provides a clear and organized approach to understanding how misinformation functions within a community.