A poltergeist is a ghostly imp with certain unpleasant characteristics. Whereas the ordinary ghost is, usually, fairly quiet and discreet, the poltergeist is the reverse. According to many reports from around the world, the poltergeist is mischievous, destructive, noisy, cruel, cunning, malicious, audacious, teasing, ill-disposed, spiteful, ruthless, and resourceful. Not a good testimonial to be sure. This delightful history of the poltergeist phenomenon covers a wide range of investigation. As well as describing his own and his friends' personal experiences, the author has extracted selected cases from old and rare works on the subject. From Battersea to Barbados, these fascinating accounts will enthral both the student of the supernatural and the general reader.