Do Aliens Exist? ISBN 978-1-60152-852-0 / eBook: 978-1-60152-853-7
Do Haunted Houses Exist? ISBN 978-1-60152-858-2 / eBook: 978-1-60152-859-9
Do Ghosts Exist? ISBN 978-1-60152-856-8 / eBook: 978-1-60152-857-5
Do Vampires Exist? ISBN 978-1-60152-860-5 / eBook: 978-1-60152-861-2
Do Witches Exist? ISBN 978-1-60152-862-9 / eBook: 978-1-60152-863-6
Do Dragons Exist? ISBN 978-1-60152-854-4 / eBook: 978-1-60152-855-1
School Library Journal November 1, 2015
Gr 9 Up “What we have here is people trying to make sense of something that, to them, is unexplainable.” Each volume contains four chapters of extensive discussion with numerous examples of encounters, as well as a wide variety of theories about why people believe in each of these phenomena. One chapter per title is devoted to past and present scientific studies. Though actual evidence tends to support the doubters, these books also respect believers and cover remaining questions and future possibilities. There are just a few photographs in each fairly dense book, and long lists of chapter resources along with the final bibliography and list of websites offer plentiful material for further exploration. VERDICT Carefully assembled and even handed, these titles could be included in adult or academic collections but will serve teens who are skilled and patient readers with serious interest in the subject.
Do Witches Exist?: ISBN 978-1-60152-862-9 / eBook: 978-1-60152-863-6
Booklist, October 1, 2015
Taking a measured approach to the topic of witchcraft, this book in the Do They Exist? series examines the beliefs, practices, and treatment of witches throughout history. After introducing different witchcraft traditions, from cunning folk to modern Wiccans, different types of magic are discussed, including ceremonial, folk, healing, and divination. Next, Netzley focuses on historical cultures of magic and the role Christianity played in tying witchcraft to the devil, which led to the infamous witch hunts in Europe and America. Myths about witches, such as Baba Yaga, and within witchcraft traditions (grimoires) follow. Lastly, scientific explanations for the hysteria in Salem are offered as alternatives to claims of witchcraft. Never sensational, the text incorporates relevant quotes and witch-related stories from history and today’s headlines for a well-researched look at witchcraft.