Review: “Real Encounters, Different Dimensions, and Otherworldly Beings”
By Brad Steiger and Sherry Hansen Steiger http://www.bradandsherry.com/
Newcomers to the world of paranormal research writing (and there are now many, due to the growth of internet and satellite networks where the material has become a staple), would do well to pay special attention to the latest offering by authors, Brad Steiger and Sherry Hansen Steiger. “Real Encounters, Different Dimensions, and Otherworldly Beings” cuts a wide path into the supernatural/paranormal realms, focusing on the highly strange encounters reported by witnesses and experiencers with various types of entities; astral beings, extraterrestrials, spirit guides, underwater inhabitants; as well as a healthy dose of various disembodied types like poltergeist and monsters.
This is not the usual “shock and awe” type paranormal anthology, rather, a well curated and tightly integrated tour of strange realms and beings, along with a thoughtful line of commentary that informs and compliments the various chapters. In fact, it is the commentary articles, written by Brad and Sherry, which makes this collection such a stand out.
In a field of publishing where presentation is often either dry research, or fear-laden hype, the Steigers weave a type of paranormal “unified field theory” that connects disparate phenomena like alien abduction and angelic encounters with spectral entities and animal spirits. Psychology, spirituality, and mythology also provide elements to the Steiger continuum that both inform, and open to observation, the experiences of the narratives.
We also get glimpses into the people inside the stories that provide the human touches the Steigers are noted for in their works: Sean Casteel’s “My Personal Encounter Story” has a rare account of Budd Hopkins advising Casteel against the use of hypnosis (the reasons are in the story).
The historical backdrop of the book includes a look back in UFOlogy at contactee George Adamski and his “cosmic gospel” and an insider ear on a conversation between the Steigers, scientist/parapsychologist, Andrija Puharich, and Star Trek creator, Gene Roddenberry on alien contactees and the human potential to create virtual worlds!
Morphing UFOs, an “added-time” (as opposed to lost time) experience, an MIB abduction, and multidimensional vortexes all comprise the rich color of experiences, places, and people (mostly) that populate this diverse paranormal tapestry. The book also features rich illustration, much provided by award winning illustrator Richard Pustanio in an almost art book layout style—worthy of a library or coffee table nook. “Real Encounters, Different Dimensions, and Otherworldly Beings” is both on par with the Steigers’ usual output, and a cut above the mainstream paranormal trade—it is a keeper and one you will go back to for research or just for something creepy and warm.
Randy Maugans, 14 October, 2013
If you would like more information or wish to purchase this book through AMAZON COM simply click on its title: Real Encounters, Different Dimensions and Otherworldly Beings
Randy Maugans is the producer and co-host, with Chris Holly, of OffPlanet Radio, and a long time researcher of UFOs, paranormal, and mysticism. The live show and archives can be found at: http://endlessjrny.blogspot.com/.