"Quantum Parapsychology: How Science is Proving the Paranormal by David Jacobs and Sarah Soderlund

"Great dialogs can foster phenomenal ideas..." is the opening of the book description on the back of this thought provoking read. If you have an interest in Parapsychology and Quantum Mechanics this book is for you! The authors use many scientific standpoints to help make logical connections to paranormal phenomenon and documented cases. Patrick Burns gives a glowing recommendation in the foreward.

"Poltergeists" by A. Gauld and A. Cornell

When you read any text regarding Poltergeist phenomenon these days you will find in many cases this particular book cited as an excellent example of groundbreaking research into the genre. This book illustrates cases from all over the world from the sixteenth century to the late twentieth. It includes various types of cases which include assaults, destructive, alleged demonic/ witch caused, and even spirits of the dead. This covers all the bases of the phenomenon called Poltergeist.

Books, Articles, Blogs, Vlogs, and more! See the categories below!

*How-To and Case Study

*Science and the Paranormal

*Paranormal Technology

*Psychology, Parapsychology, and Psychical Research

"Popular Home Remedies and Superstitions of the Pennsylvania Germans" by A. Monroe Aurand, Jr

I know what you are thinking...home remedies? Superstition? What has that to do with the paranormal? Well a lot actually! Sometimes to get into the mind of the spirit or ghost, you have to understand where they come from. You need a view into their psychological view and how it may have formed their soul or personality. The Pennsylvania German's had quite a few superstitions and German immigrants were very prevalent in our area. This small book could open an entire line of questions or even understanding.

"The Poltergeist" by Dr. William G. Roll

For many years William Roll researched and investigated potential claims of poltergeist phenomenon. Eventually he coined the term Recurrent Spontaneous Psychokinesis as the cause of this noisy and physical paranormal activity. His theory supports the idea that certain criteria of knocks, raps, objects moving, and even bodily injuries are caused by a living human agent who has psychokinetic abilities. The case studies in this book were investigated by him and a few of his peers. This volume includes convincing documentation of his theory.

"Reincarnation in the Twentieth Century" Edited by Martin Ebon

Contains a collection of 15 thoughtful essays on the subject of reincarnation from a modern perspective. Various authors discuss examples, Edgar Cayce, Bridey Murphy, and various other documented cases.

hauntings and ghost stories

"Shamanism as a Spiritual Practice for Daily Life" by Tom Cowan

This inspirational book blends elements of shamanism with inherited traditions and contemporary religious commitments. Drawing on shamanic practices from the world over, SHAMANISM AS A SPIRITUAL PRACTICE FOR DAILY LIFE addresses the needs of contemporary people who yearn to deepen their own innate mystical sensibilities. This inspirational book shows how to develop a personal spiritual practice by blending elements of shamanism with inherited traditions and current religious commitments.

"The Exorcist" by William Peter Blatty

Inspired by a true story of a child’s demonic possession in the 1940s, William Peter Blatty created an iconic novel that focuses on Regan, the eleven-year-old daughter of a movie actress residing in Washington, D.C. A small group of overwhelmed yet determined individuals must rescue Regan from her unspeakable fate, and the drama that ensues is gripping and unfailingly terrifying.

"The Beginner's Guide to Crystals" by Lisa Butterworth

The Beginner's Guide to Crystals provides everything you need to experience the wide range of benefits these stones offer. Whether used to treat physical ailments like hypertension, high blood pressure, and circulatory issues, or to soothe emotional issues such as anxiety, fear, and stress, this guide will introduce you to the perfect crystal for bringing wellness and balance to your life.

Paranormal Technology

"Love Crystals" by Judy Hall

Whether is be creating the right energies for a passionate evening with your dream lover or opening your own heart to the power of love, Love Crystals provides all the information you will need. Packed with rituals and detailing the unique powers of over 100 love crystals, this book will enhance every aspect of your life.

HOW TO AND CASE STUDY

"The Ghost Hunter's Field Guide: Gettysburg & Beyond" by Mark Nesbitt

If you don't have a Mark Nesbitt book, you should. This author is by far one of the best documentors of paranormal phenomena in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. This book may cite examples of Gettysburg but don't let its small size or localized content fool you. This is an excellent field guide for the budding investigator to have on hand getting started. As most people in our area have cut their teeth on the phenomena in Gettysburg, this book will prove invaluable.

"Ghosts Among Us: Uncovering The Truth About The Other Side" by James Van Praagh

Van Praagh has created a text that shares case studies and theory as a means to validate his theories on spirits. He shares a bit of his history to lay the groundwork on how he began studying paranormal phenomena, then delves into real cases to validate theories he has developed. I personally enjoyed his lighthearted and dedicated passion to answering the questions of life after death. This particular book is an excellent resource for compassionate approaches to paranormal investigation and research.

"Demons, the Devil, and Fallen Angels" by Marie D. Jones and Larry Flaxman

Jones and Flaxman do it again! In this book they bring a comprehensive, clear, and objective look at a subject that fills most people with fear and dread. It spans everything from demon worship to modern Satanism, the bloody era of the Inquisitions and later witch burnings to the Satanic panic of the late twentieth century and secret occult societies. It also includes the link between demons, fallen angels, aliens, criptids, apparitions, and poltergeists. This pretty much has all the darker demonic side of the paranormal under one cover.

"Famous Ghosts, Phantoms, and Poltergeists: For the Millions" by Andrew Tackaberry"

A classic text of ghost stories from across the globe. If you are looking for the most famous and most believable ghost stories this book is for you. Every paranormal enthusiast should have one of these books just to know what has come before...

"ESP in Life and Lab" by Louisa E. Rhine

This clear and readable account of all aspects of extrasensory perception and related abilities gives a vivid picture of the research that established them in terms of both life experiences and laboratory experiments. For more than thirty years, Louisa E. Rhine and her husband, J. B. Rhine, have been the world's leading authorities on extrasensory perception, and the Parapsychology Laboratory at Duke University has been the center of research and the headquarters for co-workers from all over the world. This text is an excellent overview of their studies.

"Science Confronts the Paranormal" Edited by Kendrick Frazier

This text is a collection of critical essays and investigative reports that examines virtually every area of fringe-science and the paranormal from a refreshingly scientific and clear-minded point of view. The contributors are noted scientists, philosophers, psychologists, and writers who are determined to separate sense from nonsense and fact from fiction. This book has some really great information that could help every paranormal investigator.

"Earth Magic" by Marie D. Jones

Earth Magic: Your Complete Guide to Natural Spells, Potions, Plants, Herbs, Witchcraft, and More, will guide you through the rites, practices, and traditions people use to connect themselves to the planet, spirits, and energies. Learn how the laws of the universe and the forces of science can allow you to achieve your desires and intentions by aligning unseen energy. Find the wisdom in the stars and planets above and the Earth below.

paranormal Resources

"The Enigma of the Poltergeist" by Raymond Bayless

Imagine if you will a book that gives you potential case studies that push the boundaries of what you thought classified certain hauntings. Bayless provides his own case studies and research to support his theories and includes ways to detect and protect yourself.

"Develop your Psychic Skills" by Enid Hoffman

This book gives you a broad overview of the whole field of psychic experiences. The exercises and practices given in this book are enjoyable and easy to do. Use them to strengthen and focus your own natural abilities and turn them into precise, coordinated skills. You'll be amazed at the changed that begin to happen in your life as you activate the right hemisphere of your brain; the intuitive, creative, psychic half which has been so seldom used for so long.

"Haunted Houses of Harpers Ferry" by Stephen D. Brown

Like the Ghosts and Legends of Frederick County, this book shares some of the ghost stories and legends of the region. It isn't limited to Harpers Ferry, but rather the region surrounding it as well. I collect all books about local hauntings and legends.

"The Giant Book of Ghost Stories" Edited by Richard Dalby

What better on a dark and stormy night than to read ghost stories of old? This book has a collection of stories of the supernatural from Henry James, Charles Dickens, Mary Braddon, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Bram Stoker, and more. I have always been a fan of the historical tidbits that seem to be attached to each of the ghost stories. Not only are they well laid out but there are details about the story tellers. A great book to add to your collection.

"Ghosts and Haunted Houses of Maryland" by Trish Gallagher

This is another wonderful collection of ghost stories and legends from all corners of Maryland. From the Eastern Shore to Western Maryland, Gallagher give a chilling accounts of stories that have passed down from generation to generation.

"Poltergeist: A Classic Study in Destructive Haunting" by Colin Wilson

Wilson challenges the theory that Poltergeists are caused by a living human agent. This book offers case studies and documented cases that have been done through many years. He challenges the questions of what are poltergeists? Where do they come from? And why do they appear in our world? This book has been recommended to me many times and really does challenge what you think you known about all things not just poltergeists.

"The Complete Idiots Guide to Ghosts and Hauntings" by Tom Ogden

Like the "Everything" book, this Guide has it all; History, case files, types of hauntings, and more. While the original book is a bit dry and has a few too many celebrity cases; it is still worth a read. It does not have as many "How-to" helpers for the beginner but it does cite a lot of valuable terminology and discusses potential pitfalls of investigating. The end of the book has a lot of resources for the investigator that includes haunted locations, books, films, and terminology.

"The Poltergeist Phenomenon" by Michael Clarkson

This in-depth, well researched book shares a look at various viewpoints and opinions of poltergeist phenomenon. Case studies, documented cases, witness reports, paranormal researchers, law enforcement officers, psychologists, and even skeptics are part of Clarkson's informative view. One viewpoint citing young people who are from repressed homes, going through puberty, and even possibly epileptic can produce a RSPK in which they are able to suspend gravity. This book is well laid out and easy to read.

"Cassell Dictionary of Superstitions" by David Pickering

When doing research into a spirit, ghost, or a case of paranormal phenomena; you must understand where the spirit may come from. The past is mired in superstition and lives guided by faulty causation or the idea that one action may spur a specific result. Knowing and understanding the reasons for why these superstitions could impact the psychological response when communicating with spirits, could go a long way into forming a conclusion or link to history. This text is extensive and comprehensive.

"Ghosts and Legends of Frederick County" by Timothy L. Cannon and Nancy F. Whitmore

There is nothing better than reading ghost stories and legends from your area. Located in and around Frederick County, Maryland these are the tales that we all grew up knowing, telling, and enjoying. The collection includes local haunted houses, South Mountain legends, Civil War ghosts, the Snallygaster, Dwayyo, and so much more. I usually buy every copy of this I find.

"Discover Your Psychic Powers" by Tara Ward

A practical guide to psychic development and spiritual growth. This book takes you into the realms of greater awareness; it shows you step by step how to uncover your own true potential, using both meditative and physical exercises. It has been written in a simple, factual style, making this complex subject both easily accessible and fascinating.

"The Haunting of America" by William J. Birnes and Joel Martin

From the Salem Witch Trials to Harry Houdini, this book offers a detailed and informative view of all things occult. If you have an interest in history especially the history of the paranormal in America this book is just for you! The back cover states "The Haunting of America is a thrilling exploration of the influence of the paranormal on science, medicine, law, government, the military, psychology, theology, death and dying, and pop culture.

"The Paranormal" by Arthur Ellison

Ellison creates this fascinating book with a lifetime of studying classic cases and follows the criterion that facts come first and scientific theory second. Much of this text is delving into the experimentation of psychical abilities (psi) and testing ESP. There are a few tests within the text that can help you determine if you have psychic abilities and how to approach your own investigation into the phenomena.

"The Amityville Horror" by Jay Anson

In December 1975, the Lutz family moved into their new home on suburban Long Island. George and Kathleen Lutz knew that, one year earlier, Ronald DeFeo had murdered his parents, brothers, and sisters in the house, but the property—complete with boathouse and swimming pool—and the price had been too good to pass up. Twenty-eight days later, the entire Lutz family fled in terror. This is the spellbinding, shocking true story that gripped the nation about an American dream that turned into a nightmare beyond imagining— (Or so the description says...) Every self respecting investigator reads this one...

"The Dream Interpretation Dictionary" by J.M. DeBord

The Dream Interpretation Dictionary: Symbols, Signs and Meanings brings a deep and rich understanding to a variety of images, signs, and symbols. It considers the context to help anyone complete their own personal jigsaw puzzle. It provides the tools to allow anyone to sort through possible connections and to make sense of their dreams.

"The Black Monk of Pontefract" by Richard Estep and Bil Bungay

“When an object materialises out of thin air before your very eyes - you write a book.” In the late sixties, 30 East Drive, Pontefract, became home to one of the most infamous poltergeist casesthe world has ever seen. When co-author and former sceptic Bil Bungay bought the house in order to promote a movie, he had no idea that a powerful, terrifying, entity – one capable of defying the laws of physics – was still very much in residence. This book provides first-hand eyewitness testimonies and reams of recent evidence to make the case that the house is indeed home to extraordinary paranormal phenomena, and then asks the question: Just what the heck is a poltergeist, anyway?

"The Brave Mortal's Guide to Ghost Hunting" by Alex Matsuo

Alex Matsuo gives a comprehensive and detailed view on how to approach every paranormal investigation case. She begins the book with a little history of paranormal research and then delves into aspects of a case file, investigation techniques, dos and don'ts and includes some spiritual aspects for protection. Matsuo also includes ethical and moral standards for investigations that are for me a must in every how-to. This is a very well rounded and to the point book about how to approach ghost hunting.

"Phantom Army of the Civil War" Edited by Frank Spaeth

This book compiles thirty-five tales of first-hand encounters with specters and phantoms, ghost-ridden swamps, and the eerie mansions that populate the haunted South. The stories span of more than forty years; and the rich, emotional, often violent history of the American South certainly adds something unique to this collection. Many of the spirits fought and died during the Civil War, our bloodiest and most costly conflict. Others lived long before then, helping in America's fight for independence from the British. Not every story deals with wars or battles, there are tales of lost and betrayed love, and of ancestors trying to protect the living from beyond the grave. Authors of these real-life ghost stories range from the average person to the professional paranormal investigator.

"11:11 The Time Prompt Phenomenon" by Marie D. Jones and Larry Flaxman

Have you ever noticed the same repeating numbers appearing to you on clocks, receipts, and more? This book brings the science behind synchronicities, coincidences, and the mathematical nature of reality. This book brings the metaphysical together with science and archetypal symbolism of numbers.

"The Astrology Dictionary" by Donna Woodwell

There’s more to understanding the stars than you might think! Whether you’re just learning the basics of the zodiac or are looking to delve deeper into some new concepts, The Astrology Dictionary has easy-to-understand explanations for over 100 of the most common (and important!) astrological terms.

"A Dictionary of Angels: including fallen angels" by Gustav Davidson

Gustav Davidson’s classic text, A dictionary of Angels: Including the Fallen Angels, is the result of sixteen years of research in Talmudic, gnostic, cabalistic, apocalyptic, patristic, and legendary texts. The classic reference work on angels is beautifully illustrated and its reissue coincides with the resurgence of belief in angels in America. This well researched and exquisitely illustrated dictionary is a wonderful collectable for all those who believe in angels, miracles, lore, and faith.

"Your Spirit Animal Helpers" by Author Unknown

A detailed and well illustrated book that outlines the different spirit animals, their varied powers, and rituals to find them. If you are interested in finding your spirit animal or wish to learn more about them this is an excellent addition to your bookshelf.

"Ghosts Among Us: True Stories of Spirit Encounters" by Leslie Rule

Do you believe in ghosts? Whether you are a believer or a skeptic, the stories of the supernatural in Ghosts Among Us: True Stories of Spirit Encounters will keep you riveted. Macabre and fascinating, Ghosts Among Us offers true-life, haunting accounts of eerie visitations and paranormal experiences along with artistically shot black-and-white photographs of haunted sites. The personal, firsthand reports and chilling, full-length stories are bolstered by sidebars of actual accounts of "Ghosts in the News." Each chapter explores mysterious events-events that the reader will find hard to pass off as mere coincidence.

*Belief, Superstition, Folklore, and the Occult

*True Hauntings and Ghost Stories

*Local Hauntings and Urban Legends

*Metaphysical, Crystal, Healing, and More

"The Resonance Key: Exploring the Links Between Vibration, Consciousness, and the Zero Point Grid" by Marie D. Jones and Larry Flaxman

By far the best book I have read that links science to the paranormal. Have you ever read something that just seemed right and made so much sense? This book illuminates resonance as the theory that could bridge the gap between science and the supernatural. Jones and Flaxman hit it out of the park with this one!

Psychology, Parapsychology, and Psychical Research

"The Complete Idiot's Guide to Shamanism" by Gini Graham Scott, Ph.D.

Shamans are also known as medicine men and women who use the power of the mind and call on spiritual helpers to heal the afflicted. In this guide you will get a Shamanic history from its origins in Paleolithic times to its spreading influence today. Power animals, where to locate them, and how they communicate with you. How to take a shamanic journey, traveling through the lower, upper, and middle worlds while exploring your past or future. Shamanic healing techniques to use with modern medicine.

"The Vampire Book: The Encyclopedia of the Undead" by J. Gordon Melton, PhD

A macabre and comprehensive encyclopedia that explores the historical, literary, mythological, biographical, and popular aspects of one of the world's most mesmerizing paranormal subjects. While it may seem fantastical that I include this one on a paranormal resource, I have to mention that this book includes cryptids, paranormal investigators, and some really fascinating history. If all else it's entertaining and a great book for trivia.

"Harper's Encyclopedia of Mystical and Paranormal Experience" by Rosemary Ellen Guiley

If you ever wanted a full and total disclosure of all things mystical and paranormal, here you go! This book has everything but the kitchen sink (but it may be mentioned at some point...). This book features: Major figures in the field, in depth explanations of different mystical and divinatory techniques, mystical traditions, places, and types of paranormal phenomena. It seriously has it all.

"Ghost Hunting: True Stories of Unexplained Phenomena from The Atlantic Paranormal Society" by Jason Hawes and Grant Wilson

Another great book by Jason and Grant. They may be on TV but these guys did their legwork and have tons of excellent case studies. I am partial to rereading these books because they do offer a lot of great insight into cases that could correlate to similar cases we have investigated. I recommend both of their books.

"The Crystal Healing Book" by Dael Walker

An excellent introduction to the psychic and healing properties of natural quartz crystals. This book focuses on stress reduction meditative techniques for healing crystal energy grids neutralization of environmental hazards and more.

"Spirits of Frederick" by Alyce T. Weinberg

My copy of this book is a second updated edition and I have to say the preface by Alyce's son Al is absolutely wonderful. Alyce said that she often felt like the old lady in the shoe because she had so many stories she didn't know what to do. If you are a lover of local legend and haunts this book is for you. Frederick, Maryland and surrounding areas are rich with history and ghosts. Weinberg did very well with all her stories!

"Scientific Paranormal Investigation: How to Solve Unexplained Mysteries" by Benjamin Radford

If you are a skeptic or a believer, it is imperative that you read this book. While it may make you angry or argue with the author, it also makes you think. It makes your investigation technique and documentation style more efficient and ready for peer review. Radford does an excellent job of creating the most scientific view of how to approach paranormal phenomena in an investigation setting. This book deserves a spot on every paranormal investigators bookshelf.

"The Déjà vu Enigma: A Journey Through the Anomalies of Mind, Memory, and Time" by Marie D. Jones and Larry Flaxman

Have you ever had that sensation where you remember an experience or situation that never occurred? Jones and Flaxman visit the scientific research into Deja vu revealing intriguing theories, ranging from short-term memory misfires to neurophysiological disorders. Other theories suggest more paranormal causes like a glimpse into a parallel reality.

"Haunted Gettysburg: Self Guided Ghost Walk: Devils Den Area by Bob Wasel, Bonnie Wasel, and Rob Wasel

Gettysburg is FULL of these awesome little self guided ghost books. I am not including the links to these because you just need to go to Gettysburg to find one and do your own little tour. C'mon you owe it to yourself and your love of the paranormal to experience one of the most famous haunted cities. Gettysburg has so much to offer with ghosts, history, food, and fun!

"Explaining the Unexplained" by Hans J Eysenck and Carl Sargent

This book is a revolutionary text by two highly respected scientists. They challenge the idea that dissmissive attitudes are fundamentally NOT scientific. In their field of study they have marshalled the evidence for and against the existence of paranormal human abilities such as telepathy, clairvoyance, precognition, and psychokinesis. They convincingly demonstrate the evidence is strongly for parapsychologists to begin to frame new theories as to how and why psi abilities work. This book has a lot of data and analysis that caters to the scientist in any paranormal researcher.

"The Crystal Directory" by Sarah Bartlett

This comprehensive directory of 100 essential crystals specifically addresses the manifestation power of crystals while also detailing their attributes, powers, and divination strengths.
The Crystal Directory is both a practical handbook packed with advice and a fascinating source book that includes the attributes of each stone and its spiritual qualities.

"Spirited" by Rebecca Rosen

This book empowers readers to heighten their intuition, connect with deceased loved ones, and surpass the psychological roadblocks holding them back. You will find direct, down-to-earth advice on how to draw on the power of their intuitive gifts to connect with spirit energy - loved ones who have passed on - to provide the clarity necessary to master real-life issues, including relationships, job fulfillment, finances and body image.

"Bizarre Cases: From the Files of the Skeptical Inquirer" by Various Authors

This quick and short book was published by the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal (CSICOP), the dedicated individuals responsible for the Skeptical Inquirer magazine. There are 21 short articles of various myths, from pseudoscience such as magnetic therapy & aromatherapy to alien/ufo hoaxes to explanations for aura/ghost photographs to debunked claims of mental powers to urban legends.

"Irish Druids and Old Irish Religions" by James Bonwick

This scholarly, but very readable book, covers what was known about Druids and Irish Paganism at the end of the nineteenth century. It discusses many of the concepts which later would be utilized by the Wiccan movement to construct Celtic Neo-Paganism.

"Sexual Hauntings: Through the Ages" by Colin Waters

Sometimes when you wander through a used bookstore you come upon a book like no other, and well, this is it! Waters includes over 40 real cases from around the world ranging from naked figures to horrifying and bizarre entities who have brought death and destruction to those who have come into contact with them. Rectories, airports, homes, estates, and more. (I am guessing you want to know more about the "sexual" part? Well you'll just have to try to find a copy and read it. Good luck.

"Essential Guide to Herbs" by Lesley Bremness

At once informative, engaging, and inspirational, this concise guide covers more than 100 of today's most important herbs. They're grouped according to their therapeutic qualities, with each entry featuring the herb's Latin name, traditional uses, optimal growing conditions, and ways it can benefit body, mind, and spirit. Readers get expert guidance on harvesting their own herbs, and easy ideas for integrating herbs into daily life, from healing sachets to herbal infusions.

"The Apparitionists" by Peter Manseau

I got this book as a white elephant gift during the holidays. I was pleasantly surprised at all the wonderful historical tidbits that this book offered. This book jumps around a bit but it is still very enjoyable. I think the dedication page says it all, "Nothing can be so deceiving as a photograph." -Franz Kafka. I recommend this book as an excellent recording of photographs coming into the field of psychical research.

"Haunted Maryland: Ghost and Strange Phenomena of the Old Line State" by Ed Okonowicz

Maryland has so many ghost stories and urban legends that we could write a hundred books detailing the stories that are passed down through the ages. This particular book really helps to link the history of Maryland with the folklore. Strange creatures, ghosts, and strange events; this has it all from many regions across the Old Line state.

"The Essential Guide to the Tarot" by David Fontana

The Tarot is, a powerful tool for exploring our hidden desires, tensions, and potential. This accessible and stunningly illustrated guide offers a practical overview for the modern seeker pursuing a path of personal development. It includes illuminating and instructive workshops, sample readings, interpretations of the Major and Minor Arcana, and advice on using different decks.

"Blood & Ghosts: Paranormal Forensics Investigators" by Mark Nesbitt and Katherine Ramsland

Forensics is an applied science and many of its sub-disciplines have a kinship with ghost hunting: its tools and technology were devised to record and analyze evidence or behavior. Given this shared approach to solving mysteries, it makes sense to see how these disciplines could brought together.

"The Haunted: One Family's Nightmare" by Robert Curran with Ed & Lorraine Warren

I soaked this book up very quickly which made me interested in reading more from the Warren's case files. Ed and Lorraine Warren were arguably the most famous demonologists of their time. While I can't speak for my beliefs this particular book was very in depth and interesting; however the names and some situations have been adapted or liberties were taken with the real story. I personally don't agree with the conclusions made in this case but the experiences and interviews are excellent.

"A Handbook of Chakra Healing" by Kalashatra Govinda

"The Complete Idiot's Guide to Past Life Regression" by Michael R Hathaway, D.C.H.

A guide to the mysteries of your past... In this fascinating book, a board-certified past life regression therapist goes beyond reincarnation and karma to reveal everything people want to know about the ins and outs of this phenomena. It includes Reincarnation beliefs among the Egyptians, Greeks, and the early Christian Church. The life and work of "psychic diagnostician" Edgar Cayce. What to expect when visiting a past life regression specialist, and tips on tapping into your past experiences--and using them in the present.

Local Hauntings and Urban Legends

Science and the paranormal

"Seeking Spirits: The Lost Cases of The Atlantic Paranormal Society by Jason Hawes and Grant Wilson

Jason and Grant give an excellent review of some fascinating case files of their paranormal team TAPS. While they were well known for their TV show Ghost Hunters, I admire the determination and knowledge they put forth in this book. They lay it out just like a summary of their case with notes and conclusions. There are a few that I have used as reference for our own cases.

"Civil War Ghosts of Sharpsburg" by Mark P. Brugh and Julia Stinson Brugh

As a person who has not only read this book and met these fantastic authors in person, I have to say they are AMAZING storytellers. Their book is an excellent collection of Civil War ghosts that haunt the adorable and historic Sharpsburg, Maryland. Sharpsburg if you don't know the name is the town upon which Antietam Battlefield sits. This town is full of mystery, history, and spine tingling stories of ghosts!

"The Gift of Healing" by Ambrose A. Worrall with Olga N. Worrall

The Gift of Healing is the autobiographical story of Ambrose and Olga Worrall, who became famous world wide for their healing abilities. Ambrose, a top executive in the aircraft industry, healed thousands of people in individual sessions. His wife Olga pursued her healing ministry through the Methodist Church, setting up the world-renown New Life Clinic in Baltimore. The Gift of Healing is not only one of the most personal statements of healing in print, but also delivers a message of great hope--the hope found in the healing power of love.

"Haunted Houses" by Camille Flammarion

This book is less of a How-to and more of a way to understand how paranormal investigators should approach their investigations. Flammarion was an French Astronomer that had a very good understanding of how to use empirical science to understand and document paranormal phenomena. His detailed depictions of the events he and others experienced in the late 19th century showed a keen and advanced view on what should always be done in paranormal (or psychical) research. This book was written in 1924 and was definitely ahead of its time.

"Secrets of the Supernatural: Investigating the World's Occult Mysteries" by Joe Nickell with John F. Fischer

Mysterious happenings. Famous apparitions. Things that go bump in the night. Since earliest times, public fascination and popular imagination have focused on phenomena known as "supernatural." But extraordinary claims require extraordinary proof. When mysteries and coincidences seem too remarkable to be true, reason demands careful investigation and analysis of the facts rather than the invocation of "unknown forces."Utilizing their experience as professional crime-solvers, authors Joe Nickell and John F. Fischer delve into the labyrinth of the unknown armed with open minds and the remarkable array of information sources and scientific methods available to the modern investigator.

"Ghost Hunters: True Stories from the World's Most Famous Demonologists" by Ed & Lorraine Warren with Robert David Chase

I have to give a fair review and state that this book is excellent if you are interested in the case studies from the Warren's vault. I am not sure if it was the writers words or how he portrayed the Warren's but the conversations between them and the clients they worked with were very stilted and unprofessional. I cannot imagine the Warren's were like this knowing how famous and well liked they were. I was not fond of this book but it did include quite a few interesting cases.

"The Psychology of Consciousness" by Robert E. Ornstein

This text explores the human conscious and psychology. While it isn't directly linked to the paranormal, it does add value to understand how our conscious mind can impact our intuitive and psychological processes. Actions such as meditation, yoga, and mindfulness can create a completely altered psychological standpoint for humans. This author really delves into the how's and why's of it all, which can in turn be applied to the study of the paranormal in relation to the living.

"Dangerous Obsessions: Teenagers and the Occult" by Andrew Boyd

This book outlines the teenage obsession in the occult and its darker results. While there is some serious writing privilege given to the author regarding opinion based viewpoints...there are some interesting documented cases. Whether it's on the extreme side of the darker aspect of teenage obsessions, it is still an interesting case study in the psychological ramifications of dabbling with paranormal phenomena.

"Handbook of Psi Discoveries" by Sheila Ostrander and Lynn Schroeder

Psychical Research meets new age investigation. While this text does review a lot of psi abilities and discoveries thought to be linked to the paranormal, it reads as a new age paranormal investigation handbook. It was published in 1974 and is definitely a fantastic link to where we started and how far we all have come as paranormal investigators. As a seasoned investigator I find it never hurts to learn where we came from...

"Crystal Enlightenment" by Katrina Raphaell

This book is a comprehensive, yet easy to understand guide to the use of crystals and gems for internal growth, healing and balance in your daily life. Discover new resources, learn how to extend your personal awareness and center by attuning to crystal energies. The magnitude and potential of crystals and gems to impact positively our personal lives and the evolving planet we live on is significant.

"A Paranormal Casebook" by Loyd Auerbach

Auerbach creates exactly what the title portrays, a case book. Detailed accounts of case files with reported phenomena, experiences, documentation, theory, and conclusion. If you like to learn by reading experiences and understanding views on paranormal research, this is the text for you. Auerbach has so many rich experiences and cases that it will not disappoint. The "How-to" is not so much a detailed checklist of how to investigate, but rather a detailed view on how he approached each case and informative views on the do's and don'ts.

"Anatomy of a Ghost: A Guide to Analyzing the Dead" by Robin M. Strom-Mackey

Strom-Mackey includes a lot of great content in "Anatomy of a Ghost" that begins with a little history of the paranormal and outlines some of the pioneers of the field. She includes comprehensive and extensive amounts of terminology and theory within the paranormal field. It can be said that this book includes a vast amount of information that would help the budding and advanced investigator in a very short read. I recommend this book as a jumping off point on all aspects of information the layman needs to advance as a paranormal investigator.

"Demons, Demons, Demons: A Christian Guide Through the Murky Maze of the Occult" by John P. Newport

This book is extreme and not for the faint of heart, it quite literally demonizes all things paranormal. I personally feel that in order to battle for your view or perspective you need to know and attempt to understand the opposing views. While much of it has a dark view of any dabbling into the occult, it does have some interesting information that could illuminate reasons for paranormal activity in a home that has very rigid religious views and help you deal with families that may oppose the idea of the paranormal in their home.

"Ghost Hunter's Guidebook: The Essential Guide to Investigating Ghosts & Hauntings" by Troy Taylor

Troy Taylor has long been a valuable asset to paranormal investigation. This book is no different than its author. This text is comprehensive, detailed, and could be your essential guide on all paranormal investigation cases. The only complaint I have on this particular book is the pitfalls of the author in his rhetoric on things he has passionate opinions. I personally enjoy texts that do not involve emotional outbursts that could potentially stifle progress or individual capacity for research. Everyone should do their own research, even if it has already been done. With that said this is another recommended read especially for the valuable document recommendations he makes towards the end of the book.

"How to be a Ghost Hunter" by Richard Southall

This was one of the first books that I purchased when I became a paranormal investigator. My book however was written at the beginning of the paranormal investigation boom so it's got a bit of outdated information, I recommend you find the second version. There is so much valuable information in this book that you won't really need another. It outlines terminology, how to create a team, do's and don'ts, and so much more. There is a whole section devoted to documents you should create for your investigation case files as well. I highly recommend this book!

"PSIence: How New Discoveries in Quantum Physics and New Science May Explain the Existence of Paranormal Phenomena" by Marie D. Jones

No matter what the content, if the book says it's authored by Marie D. Jones, I buy it. PSIence introduces readers to the latest discoveries in quantum physics and new science that may explain the existence of paranormal phenomena such as UFOs, ghosts, poltergeists, time anomalies, and even psychic abilities such as ESP, telekinesis, and past lives. Do yourself a favor and just put this on your wishlist!

"Psychic Living" by Andrei Ridgeway

Using the same methods the author uses in his workshops, a renowned psychic helps one unleash innate psychic talents to perform psychic readings for oneself and others, and tune into amazing truths about one's career, love life, and deepest passions. Original.

"Paranormal Phenomena: An Opposing Viewpoint Series Book" by Various Authors/ Greenhaven Press

This is a very well organized collection of skeptical opinions regarding various types of paranormal phenomenon. This text is another thought provoking analysis that makes a paranormal investigator sharpen their skills and create a standard within their research.

"Psychic" Edited by James Grayson Bolen

This book explores "the core part of human nature and the mysteries of the universe" in a way that the sophisticated layman could understand. This book contains a series of interviews with leading psychics. Edited by James Grayson Bolen.

"Can We Explain the Poltergeist?" by A.R.G. Owen

This text has extensive case studies and conclusions from all over the world. Many poltergeists texts written since Owen published cite his studies in their own books. All cases are well documented and have extensive information to give insight to the reader. If you are into case studies and the study of poltergeist phenomenon this is an excellent book to add to your bookshelf. I will note that you can only find them used. This book is no longer in print.

"Ghost Science" by Vince Wilson

Another text regarding the technology involved in paranormal investigation and ghost hunting. This text is a bit out of date but most of the technology can still be seen today within the paranormal community and as such is still considered a resource. I definitely feel that no matter the age of a book, the first edition show where we have been so that we know where we came from and the steps and stages it took to get where we are at any given time.

"Parapsychology: A Century of Inquiry" by D. Scott Rogo

Described as "One of the best and most comprehensive books on the subject", Rogo begs that this field of study parapsychology; has proven psychical phenomenon- scientifically. While this particular book was published in 1975, it creates a complete book detailing the fascinating world of parapsychology; its research, literature, methodology, advances, and still to be solved mysteries. This text may just answer the question, "Can we survive after death?"

"The Everything Wicca & Witchcraft Book" by Marian Singer

This book uncovers the fascinating history of witchcraft and shows you why the Wiccan religion has grown in popularity. It cuts through common misconceptions, myths, and stereotypes, and guides you to a greater understanding of the real-life rituals, practices, and symbols that define these ancient practices. The author presents all the material in a fun and educational way.

"The Everything Ghost Hunting Book" by Melissa Martin Ellis

A thorough text of all things regarding ghost hunting/ paranormal investigation. This book includes the history of the paranormal, belief, and documentation. Coverage of psychic abilities and education. A comprehensive chapter on types of hauntings and spirits. A How-to for investigators and protection rituals. This book is really a beginners dream of all things to get you started in the paranormal field. When certain information updates the author releases a newer version which, you can seek out as they publish them.

"The Paranormal and the Normal: A Historical, Philosophical, and Theoretical Perspective by Morton Leeds and Gardner Murphy

When I say that this book is rudimentary, believe me! While the layout of the text is a bit rough it allows it to read just like someone's journal being typed up for the everyday reader. The text reviews psi research, philosophy, theory of psi, the psi matrix (clairvoyance, telepathy, and PK), the three paired psi phenomena (crisis apparitions, ghosts, psychometry, and healing), and more. If you are interested in a scientifically worded and well researched book about psi, this one is for you!

"Digital SLR Cameras & Photography for Dummies" by David D. Busch

Every paranormal investigator or ghost hunter that is using a camera, analyzing a photo, or even teaching anyone about the paranormal should know basic photography. While there are excellent and detailed videos on You Tube, this book is a comprehensive and detailed guide. Knowing basic photography and how a camera works can go a long way into explaining any anomalies in your photos. I definitely recommend picking up any book about basic digital photography.

"Science and the Paranormal: Probing the Existence of the Supernatural" by George O. Abell and Barry Singer

This book offers a study of the most intriguing mysteries of the supernatural from a scientists' point of view. The Bermuda Triangle, Bigfoot, biorhythms, life after death, psychic healing, the theory of colliding worlds, ESP, PK, Kirlian auras, UFOs, intelligent life in the universe, astrology, moon madness, and feelings in plants. This text separates the facts from the fiction surrounding the worlds most discussed and misunderstood phenomena.

"Real Ghosts, Restless Spirits, and Haunted Places" by Brad Steiger

If you are looking for the most well rounded and extensive book you can find on famous and not so famous haunts; look no further. I have read this book many times and I feel like I learn a few tidbits I hadn't noticed the time before. This text has so much information that a simple review just doesn't do it justice. This book should be on every paranormal enthusiasts shelf.

"The Case For Ghosts: An Objective Look at the Paranormal" by J. Allan Danelek

By far my favorite book on the paranormal! This author creates a lively view and theoretical discussion on all things paranormal. There are so many questions Mr. Danelek asks that bring us to the heart of why we are paranormal researchers. He includes some very basic tips on investigating the paranormal and a lot of information on the Who, What, Where, When, and Why of types of entities. I recommend this book!

Belief, superstition, Folklore and the occult

"Ultimate Ghost Tech: The Science, History & Technology of Ghost Hunting" by Vince Wilson

While paranormal technology changes on a daily basis, I found that this book has a comprehensive look at the equipment, how it works, theories behind its use for paranormal investigation, and its artifacts. If you are interested in the technical aspect of the paranormal field I definitely recommend this as a wide range of equipment that is commonly used.

Metaphysical, Crystals, Healing, and More

"The Complete Book of Herbs : A Practical Guide to Growing and Using Herbs" by Lesley Bremness

With more than 340,000 copies sold in hardcover, this essential, full-color resource is now available in paperback. Revealing the enormous potential of herbs, this sourcebook includes information on planting, growing, and harvesting herbs, as well as the main uses of herbs. It also offers an exhaustive identification guide, recipes, ideas for gifts, and much more.