ESP, Hauntings, and Poltergeists: A Parapsychologist's Handb

Skillian · Post by **Skillian** » 21 Nov 2014, 02:32

The following review is of the non-fiction work: ESP, Hauntings, and Poltergeists: A Parapsychologist's Handbook , by Lord Auerbach.

The title is what sucked me into giving this book a try. Initially I assumed it was a work of fiction, but as it turns out it is exactly what it states. Auerbach is a parapsychological consultant, and one of the first things he addresses in the book is how the controversy surrounding psychic (or the like) events often demeans the science behind his work and thrusts him into some witchdoctor occult category.

Right away he addresses my initial curiosities, such as: How do you know it's real? Who do you call? (Ghostbusters!) And why should I take any of this seriously? Very simply he discusses how these sorts of phenomena occur all around the world; whether or not people believe in them. He dives into distinguishing the difference between normal bumps in the night (creaky floors, etc), and things that are in fact supernatural. Another thing he addresses is how hyped up a lot of this has been made by Hollywood, and how it has been detrimental to the overall understanding of parapsychology.

Now there are a lot of books on this subject. Most of these are a brief intro into parapsychology, maybe a look into some independent studies and observations, and some are merely an analysis of various folklore/legends. The defining difference with this book is that it touches on all elements in a way to convey it for better understanding to us normal folks who think of 'Ghostbusters,' 'Poltergeist,' and expect a priest to come in speaking Latin while the walls shake. It busts ghosts as well as hoaxes, and shows how they approach everything with skepticism (regardless of the stereotype of them being crazy and imagination driven). Lastly, and most importantly to me, they give detailed instruction in conducting your own investigation and expulsion.

Overall, the book is working to address the lack of knowledge surrounding parapsychology, which results in people responding in terror and confusion when they end up in such situations. There is a subsequent section of appendixes to aid people in common questions, and who in fact to call.

I found the book to be quite comprehensive and fascinating. While I hope I don't run into anything described in the book, I now feel better prepared to handle the situation. However, I will still freak out accordingly. The book was well written and well laid out. I found myself reading the book straight through, but this might be due to my severe interest in the topic. I could definitely see how without a prior foundation of curiosity the book might lag a big. I give the book a 3 out of 4, and strongly recommend it to anyone interested in finding their own personal Boogeyman.

tracyanncook80 · Post by **tracyanncook80** » 03 Dec 2014, 11:08

Thank you for the review. This subject has always been of interest to me! I am always looking for a good read on the subject. There are some far too technical. Others I find too far fetched!

Skillian · Post by **Skillian** » 03 Dec 2014, 12:52

You're welcome! I'm also fascinated by all things that go bump in the night... and yes there is a lack of balanced books on the subject. Most of them are from one extreme to the other.

tracyanncook80 · Post by **tracyanncook80** » 03 Dec 2014, 13:02

Are you a believer in psychics?

Skillian · Post by **Skillian** » 03 Dec 2014, 13:03

I actually believe in all kinds of things... I've had some pretty crazy experiences in my life. Granted I wouldn't seek a psychic out haha I do think there are things in this world I will never understand and wont be able to be explained. You?

tracyanncook80 · Post by **tracyanncook80** » 03 Dec 2014, 13:16

I agree that there are things that can never be explained. I believe in after life, karma and yes psychic ability. I do go to a psychic now and then.

Skillian · Post by **Skillian** » 15 Dec 2014, 01:02

Woa. I would be scared to go to one. I surely wouldn't want to end up on their bad side. haha

gali · Post by **gali** » 15 Dec 2014, 02:01

A great review!

I don't belief in those kind of things, but I keep an open mind about it.

Skillian · Post by **Skillian** » 15 Dec 2014, 02:08

haha thanks! I go back and forth. Generally my mind is more susceptible after a scary movie.... I think that is the same for most people. Especially curious teenagers. lol Some people (like me) have to sleep with nightlights and can't completely convince ourselves that strange sounds and glimpses in our peripheral are branches and wind. lol I really wish I could though!!

gali · Post by **gali** » 15 Dec 2014, 02:13

Skillian wrote:haha thanks! I go back and forth. Generally my mind is more susceptible after a scary movie.... I think that is the same for most people. Especially curious teenagers. lol Some people (like me) have to sleep with nightlights and can't completely convince ourselves that strange sounds and glimpses in our peripheral are branches and wind. lol I really wish I could though!!

This is why I love having my dog around...

Skillian · Post by **Skillian** » 15 Dec 2014, 02:16

haha I sleep with my dog too, and my husband (who isn't at all paranoid....) sleeps with an ax next to the bed. But they are both useless. They don't wake as easily as me... and! I have the bedside closest to the door. Which should arguably be the man's side of the bed IMO. lol But I guess if there is a window intruder he can defend me best where he is. lol And my dog... I have no idea what she would do. She is small and lazy.... though I guess she is very protective. Luckily we haven't had to be in a situation to find out how she would react. haha

gali · Post by **gali** » 15 Dec 2014, 02:39

Skillian wrote:haha I sleep with my dog too, and my husband (who isn't at all paranoid....) sleeps with an ax next to the bed. But they are both useless. They don't wake as easily as me... and! I have the bedside closest to the door. Which should arguably be the man's side of the bed IMO. lol But I guess if there is a window intruder he can defend me best where he is. lol And my dog... I have no idea what she would do. She is small and lazy.... though I guess she is very protective. Luckily we haven't had to be in a situation to find out how she would react. haha

He really sleeps with an ax near him?? I thought you were joking.

I sleep with my hub as well of course and also have the bedside closest to the door.

Skillian · Post by **Skillian** » 15 Dec 2014, 04:26

*nervous laugh* truth is what makes it funny right?

dawnzdreams1 · Post by **dawnzdreams1** » 16 Jan 2015, 17:44

What a great book review! My father was into performing exorcisms while I was growing up, so, needless to say, I also had a number of interesting experiences. This book sounds like a great resource for the curious and experienced alike. I just may have to add it to my collection.