No other supernatural creature is as shocking and as frightening as the vampire. Neither living nor dead, it creeps out of its grave to suck the blood of the living while they sleep. About 300 years ago, vampires came out of the shadows into the celebrity limelight, and tales of vampires have filled newspapers, magazines, books, and the stage ever since. "Vampires" explores both familiar and little-known territory about the world's creepiest monster, covering true stories and surprising facts about different types of vampires. It looks at superstition and folklore surrounding the bloodthirsty creatures and at their portrayals in the entertainment industry. Some legendary inspirations for vampire mythology, such as Vlade Tepes and Elizabeth Bathory, are also explored. Chapters include: The Making of a Vampire; Hunting Down the Vampire; The V-Files: Stranger Than Strange True Vampire Stories; From Count Dracula to Vampire Lestat and Beyond; and, The Vampire Underground....

This is the truth about demons and demonology - in more than 400 entries. The conflict between good and evil can be found in every culture, mythical tradition, and religion throughout history. In many cases, the source of evil has been personified as demons or devils, and in many belief systems, both are considered to be real entities operating outside the boundaries of the physical world to torment people or lead them astray. In some traditions demons are believed to be the direct opposite of angels, working against the forces of good and challenging them. Real or not, demons are at the heart of many fascinating beliefs and traditions, several of which are widely held today. "The Encyclopedia of Demons and Demonology" explores this dark aspect of folklore and religion and the role that demons play in the modern world. This comprehensive resource presents more than 400 entries and more than 80 black-and-white photographs documenting beliefs about demons and demonology from ancient history to the present. The key topics covered include: Demons in different cultural and religious traditions; Demons in folklore and popular culture; Exorcism and other means of confronting demons; Historical cases of possession and demon activity; The history of demonology; Magic and witchcraft; Possession and other demonic phenomena; Modern-day demonologists and exorcists; Strange creatures and entities related to demons; and, Types of demons....

Uncover the magic and truth behind this compelling topic.In more than 480 entries, "The Encyclopedia of Witches, Witchcraft, and Wicca, Third Edition" is an exciting update to one of the landmark references on the subject - by paranormal expert Rosemary Ellen Guiley. This new edition provides unparalleled coverage of witchcraft practices around the world - spanning different time periods and societies - including entries on magic, shamanism, the occult, and wizardry. Now covering Wicca-related material not included in the previous editions, as well as updates of contemporary biographies and Wicca material, this encyclopedia is perfect for casual readers and those fascinated by this spellbinding topic. All material has been expanded considerably, providing updates and new information about the key topics of witchcraft.The new and revised coverage includes: a treatment of the Inquisition; biographies of contemporary Wiccans; "Book of Shadows"; familiars; folklore relating to witchcraft; historical cases of witchcraft trials; magic and Wicca; salem witches; Wicca practices, rituals, beliefs, and traditions; and, witches in entertainment: films, television, stage, and popular fiction....

Outside one's body and experience things impossible in the physical world. "Dreams and Astral Travel" explores the mysteries surrounding dreams and looks at experiences that suggest that dreams are far more than the result of mere imagination and subconscious thoughts of individuals. Included in this fascinating volume are practical tips on how young readers can better understand their own dreams and put dreams to work for them. The chapters include: The Fall and Rebirth of Dreams; Science Ventures into Dreamland; Night Flying; The Astral World; The Psychic Side of Dreams; and, Dreams That Heal....

While most people are familiar with the classic image of a witch as a frightening figure riding through the night sky on a broomstick, true witchcraft is something very different. "Witches and Wiccans" explores witches and witchcraft throughout the ages, in both folklore and history. It discusses what people have believed about witches in different time periods, witchcraft practices from different cultures around the world, and how societies have perceived those called witches. With this look at the modern Wicca practices, the principles of Wicca, and how they differ from the witches of legend, readers will gain a better understanding of what modern-day practitioners do to commune with the unseen forces....

Uncover the magic and truth behind this compelling topic.In more than 480 entries, "The Encyclopedia of Witches, Witchcraft, and Wicca, Third Edition" is an exciting update to one of the landmark references on the subject - by paranormal expert Rosemary Ellen Guiley. This new edition provides unparalleled coverage of witchcraft practices around the world - spanning different time periods and societies - including entries on magic, shamanism, the occult, and wizardry. Now covering Wicca-related material not included in the previous editions, as well as updates of contemporary biographies and Wicca material, this encyclopedia is perfect for casual readers and those fascinated by this spellbinding topic. All material has been expanded considerably, providing updates and new information about the key topics of witchcraft.The new and revised coverage includes: a treatment of the Inquisition; biographies of contemporary Wiccans; "Book of Shadows"; familiars; folklore relating to witchcraft; historical cases of witchcraft trials; magic and Wicca; salem witches; Wicca practices, rituals, beliefs, and traditions; and, witches in entertainment: films, television, stage, and popular fiction....

This is an informative exploration of the mysteries surrounding ghosts and haunted places.Ghosts are the single most common paranormal experience, captivating and frightening people of all ages. What makes some people linger on beyond the grave? Are ghosts real, are they imagined, or are they some weird aberration of time and space?"Ghosts and Haunted Places" examines the history, folklore, science, technology, and personal experience of ghosts and hauntings, as well as the major themes in ghostlore. Featuring accounts of true cases and scenarios, this fascinating book explores the different types of ghosts and hauntings and their possible explanations, as well as the major figures and groups involved in ghost research throughout history. Special information is provided for readers who wish to conduct their own ghost hunts or haunting investigations.The chapters include: Dead People Who Don't Go Away; Where Do Ghosts Come From? Screaming Banshees and Death Omen Ghosts; Animal Ghosts and Phantimals; and, Ghost Hunting with the Pros....

Ghosts are the single most common paranormal experience, fascinating and frightening to people of all ages. What makes some people linger on beyond the grave? Are ghosts real, are they imagined, or are they some weird aberration of time and space? "Ghosts and Haunted Places" will examine the history, folklore, science, technology, and personal experience of ghosts and hauntings, as well as the major themes in ghostlore. Featuring accounts of true cases and scenarios, this fascinating book explores the different types of ghosts and hauntings and their possible explanations, as well as the major figures and groups involved in ghost research throughout history. Special information is provided for readers who wish to conduct their own ghost hunts or haunting investigations.Chapters include: Dead People Who Don't Go Away, Where Do Ghosts Come From? Screaming Banshees and Death Omen Ghosts, Animal Ghosts and Phantimals, and Ghost Hunting with the Pros....

It is true! Billions of angels populate the universe. Whether their presence takes the form of a disembodied voice, a divine light, a mysterious stranger, or an invisible guardian, angels have always participated in human affairs.

Ask the Angels is a friendly and accessible guide to the wisdom and lore of angels. Guiley provides an introduction for readers to the whole hierarchy of angels, from the twenty-two Master Angels of Life who govern aspects of daily life to the Nine Angels of the Higher Order who guide spiritual growth. In addition, she provides a series of meditations and exercises for working with angels.

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There are spectacular failures and frauds, and equally spectacular alleged successes. "Spirit Communications" explores all of these modes of communication and, wherever possible, separates fiction from fact. The book discusses how spirit communications work and what communicators do, but cautions young readers against do-it-yourself spirit communications, such as entering into trances or using risky devices, since the practices can be dangerous for those who are unprepared. Chapters of this book include: Dreams and Visions; Ritual Trances and Altered States; Seance Spirits; Interdimensional Tools; Psycho-What? Machine Mediums; and, Channeling - Calling the Universe....

Discover the fascinating world of these bloodthirsty creatures. No other supernatural creature is as shocking or as frightening as the vampire. Neither living nor dead, it creeps out of its grave to suck the blood of the living while they sleep. About 300 years ago, vampires came out of the shadows into the celebrity limelight, and tales of vampires have filled newspapers, magazines, books, and the stage ever since."Vampires" explores both familiar and little-known territory about the world's creepiest monster, covering true stories and surprising facts about different types of vampires. It looks at superstition and folklore surrounding these bloodthirsty creatures and at their portrayals in the entertainment industry. Some legendary inspirations for vampire mythology, such as Vlade Tepes and Elizabeth Bathory, are also explored.Chapters include: The Making of a Vampire; Hunting Down the Vampire; The V-Files: Stranger Than Strange True Vampire Stories; From Count Dracula to Vampire Lestat and Beyond; and, The Vampire Underground....

This work offers a compelling examination of witches and witchcraft in both folklore and history. While most people are familiar with the classic image of a witch as a frightening figure riding through the night sky on a broomstick, true witchcraft is something very different. "Witches and Wiccans" explores witches and witchcraft throughout the ages, in both folklore and history. It discusses what people have believed about witches in different time periods, witchcraft practices from different cultures around the world, and how societies have perceived witches. With this look at the modern Wicca practices, the principles of Wicca, and how they differ from the witches of legend, readers will gain a better understanding of what modern-day practitioners do to commune with unseen forces. Chapters include: The Inquisition's Reign of Terror; Anatomy of a Witch Trial and Execution; Witchcraft in Early America; Witchcraze in Salem; and, Wiccan Celebrations....