Communication with the Dead: ISBN: 978-1-6782-0990-2 / eBook: 978-1-6782-0991-9
Ghost Hunters: ISBN: 978-1-6782-0994-0 / eBook: 978-1-6782-0995-7
Ghosts: ISBN: 978-1-6782-0992-6 / eBook: 978-1-6782-0993-3
Hauntings: ISBN: 978-1-6782-0996-4 / eBook: 978-1-6782-0997-1
Poltergeists: ISBN: 978-1-6782-0998-8 / eBook: 978-1-6782-0999-5
School Library Journal, Series Made Simple supplement April 1, 2025
Gr 7-10–Mature readers fascinated by spooky topics will be well-served by this excellent series. Each volume opens with a series of intriguing charts displaying percentages of Americans who believe in the spirit world, although no sources or dates are cited for these figures. Information is presented in accessible prose and the narrative flow makes for lively, interesting reading. Students will appreciate that the series examines and respects both sides of the topics, discussing how researchers are trying to learn “the truth,” and how modern technology is advancing research and might help the public learn and understand more. The texts include quotes from people working in the field, which balances the subject and lends credibility. An especially appealing chapter in the Ghosts volume includes examples of ghost stories told by different cultures across the centuries. Images, text boxes, and sidebars offer additional information. VERDICT A fascinating series that is highly recommended for older readers.
Ghost Hunters: ISBN: 978-1-6782-0994-0 / eBook: 978-1-6782-0995-7
Booklist, April 1, 2025
Ghosts are a perennially popular subject, and this offering from the Guide to Ghosts and Hauntings series (5 titles) concentrates on (mostly) true believers who actively seek them out. There's a bit of historical background on spiritualism, séances, and famous hoaxes, but most of the content is dedicated to modern-day hunters, special tools and technology, and media shows and personalities. Various teams of paranormal investigators share how they find allegedly haunted structures, do research, prepare their equipment, determine timing, and hopefully collect audio, visual, or even physical evidence of paranormal activity. Brief chapters are supported by quotes, photos, and special features; back matter includes chapter notes and resources. Readers of this guide won’t find harrowing ghost stories, but they will encounter solid information, fact-based debunking of some urban legends and deceptions, and a little career advice.
— Kathleen McBroom