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Exploring the Paranormal: Miracles, Magic, and the Mysterious
A personal exploration into the truth behind psychic healing, séances, astral projection, and more After an injury threatened his chances of signing a professional baseball contract, R. Alan Streett sought help from Olga Worrall, a world-famous psychic healer. This encounter set in motion his lifelong search for the origin and nature of psychic phenomena. Were they natural or supernatural? From God, or from the devil? Were they mentalists’ tricks, or feats of the subconscious mind? Streett invites us to join him in real time as he explores the fascinating world of the paranormal, offering insights into healing, magic, trance channeling, yogic meditation, alternative medicine, astral projection, and the brain’s ability to produce spiritual and mystical experiences. Ultimately Street enables readers to draw some time-tested and cutting-edge conclusions. Exploring the Paranormal is a helpful guide for all who wish to understand the varied forms of spirituality that are so popular today.
224 pages, Paperback
Published October 31, 2024
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16 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
February 28, 2025
Part memoir, part theology commentary, part deeply researched psychology book
At first this read to me like a Christian Stephen King novel and I was baffled by some of the stories Dr. Streett told, but I truly could not put this down
At first this read to me like a Christian Stephen King novel and I was baffled by some of the stories Dr. Streett told, but I truly could not put this down
October 31, 2024
"Exploring the Paranormal: Miracles, Magic, and the Mysterious," by R. Alan Streett, reads like a memoir of mysticism. The author takes the reader on his lifelong journey that led him to the occult, to Christ, to deep skepticism, and deeper understanding of the marvels of creation. Along the way, Al held to his convictions but never allowed his convictions to paralyze him. Instead, he continued to question and challenge his assumptions and those of his guides. Exploring the Paranormal traces his growth into a depth of faith grounded in the person of Jesus Christ.
I came to faith in 1984, at the height of what we've come to call "The Satanic Panic." I broke my Ouija Board, burned my rock music, and knew demons would get me if I played Dungeons and Dragons. Now I look back and see what my youth leaders and ministers told me was faithfulness was, in reality fearfulness. It's not their fault, though; they were afraid too.
While reading Alan Streett's "Exploring the Paranormal," there were so many times when I wished Al's voice had been there for me in those formative years. Of course, he was still moving through his story at the time, but some points feel like they overlap with my own journey, and there are other points where Al went places that would have terrified me. Ultimately, I'm thankful he's come out the other side of the story and now shares his experiences and convictions in this book.
I've long been a fan of Al Streett's writing. As an undergrad with a weekend preaching ministry, I found in Al's book, "The Effective Invitation," an empathetic voice that shared my frustrations in preaching and offered solutions. A few years ago, I read "Subversive Meals: An Analysis of the Lord's Supper under Roman Domination during the First Century" and found it a fascinating exploration of the history and culture into which the Lord's Supper was born. In "Exploring the Paranormal," he turns those qualities of empathy and dogged research onto the story of his lifelong search beyond the natural realm.
Having been familiar with Streett's writing, it was fascinating to learn his story. I was not expecting it to begin with Al as an aspiring baseball player whose search for relief from an injury led him to spiritual healers. The unrest of the late 60s left him open to seeking answers beyond conventional thought, therapies, and religion. Between the pain of shattered dreams and the possibilities offered in those open and accepting days, Al found himself in seminary, training for ministry while still finding his way in the Christian faith.
While Al's conclusions have allowed him to see through the chicanery and deception of the spiritual practitioners that once fascinated him, his clarity does not dissuade wonder at the God who fills this natural world with his presence. The end of his journey is filled with encouragement for the reader to see beyond the natural to the wonders of God's creation--especially his creation of the human mind.
"Exploring the Paranormal" is well-written, clearly organized, and filled with fascinating stories. For those who have had their own explorations into the paranormal, this book will show you you're not alone and offer you a guide to the clarity and wonder you seek.
I came to faith in 1984, at the height of what we've come to call "The Satanic Panic." I broke my Ouija Board, burned my rock music, and knew demons would get me if I played Dungeons and Dragons. Now I look back and see what my youth leaders and ministers told me was faithfulness was, in reality fearfulness. It's not their fault, though; they were afraid too.
While reading Alan Streett's "Exploring the Paranormal," there were so many times when I wished Al's voice had been there for me in those formative years. Of course, he was still moving through his story at the time, but some points feel like they overlap with my own journey, and there are other points where Al went places that would have terrified me. Ultimately, I'm thankful he's come out the other side of the story and now shares his experiences and convictions in this book.
I've long been a fan of Al Streett's writing. As an undergrad with a weekend preaching ministry, I found in Al's book, "The Effective Invitation," an empathetic voice that shared my frustrations in preaching and offered solutions. A few years ago, I read "Subversive Meals: An Analysis of the Lord's Supper under Roman Domination during the First Century" and found it a fascinating exploration of the history and culture into which the Lord's Supper was born. In "Exploring the Paranormal," he turns those qualities of empathy and dogged research onto the story of his lifelong search beyond the natural realm.
Having been familiar with Streett's writing, it was fascinating to learn his story. I was not expecting it to begin with Al as an aspiring baseball player whose search for relief from an injury led him to spiritual healers. The unrest of the late 60s left him open to seeking answers beyond conventional thought, therapies, and religion. Between the pain of shattered dreams and the possibilities offered in those open and accepting days, Al found himself in seminary, training for ministry while still finding his way in the Christian faith.
While Al's conclusions have allowed him to see through the chicanery and deception of the spiritual practitioners that once fascinated him, his clarity does not dissuade wonder at the God who fills this natural world with his presence. The end of his journey is filled with encouragement for the reader to see beyond the natural to the wonders of God's creation--especially his creation of the human mind.
"Exploring the Paranormal" is well-written, clearly organized, and filled with fascinating stories. For those who have had their own explorations into the paranormal, this book will show you you're not alone and offer you a guide to the clarity and wonder you seek.
December 19, 2024
This book is written in the style of an autobiography tracing the author’s own journey through life and his interest in and study of the paranormal. It’s an easy and interesting read and I would recommend it for people who like biographies and/or are interested in the paranormal. The book is divided into four parts based on his main belief about the paranormal at that time of his life. Streett studied mysticism, the occult, spiritualism, the paranormal, mentalism, and magic both as a hobby and academically, eventually earning two doctorate degrees in relevant fields.
At first, Streett is interested in the paranormal and believes some people have genuine psychic abilities. Next, he has a life-changing spiritual experience and becomes a Christian. He comes to believe all psychic and paranormal activities are demonic. Then he studies magic, illusions, and mentalism, and concludes much of what he thought was demonic is actually illusion, deception, and mentalism. Finally, he investigates meditation and the activity of the subconscious brain and concludes that some psychic experiences are the result of tapping into the subconscious.
Before studying mentalism he says, “After spending decades of research into the nature of the paranormal, I was exhausted and no closer to finding answers than when I had first begun (p109).” Later he learned, “As our brainwaves slow down and the natural world recedes into the background, our faculties are heightened to glimpse the unseen and gain knowledge that seems to be supernatural in origin (p130).” “In the unconscious states we may have paranormal experiences, including strange and bizarre encounters with demons and angels, prophetic utterances, creative problem solving, and even healing of the body (p158).” Finally, he concludes “I now understand that while psychic experiences varied (e.g., automatic writing, intuition, angelic encounters, speaking to spirits, prophetic and inspired words, or spontaneous healing), they all had a common source – the subconscious mind, or more specifically, our brain as it operates at different speeds (p159).”
One conclusion the author asserts near the end of the book and after a lifetime of studying, is that meditation and deep, rhythmic breathing to enter a state with slower brainwaves is beneficial both physically and mentally.
I found the author’s journey studying the paranormal interesting and think his final conclusions are probably largely correct. But I also wonder at what point the ability to study the supernatural is beyond the scope of science. The title of the book included “miracles”, a nice alliteration, but miracles were barely discussed. I wanted to know if there were legitimate miracles that he investigated and if all healing claims really could be traced back to subconscious suggestions. I also would have liked to see more investigation from a non-Western perspective and outside of the United States. Also, I noted that the YouTube link on p137 did not work.
I found this book engaging and worth reading if you are curious about this topic or just enjoy biographies. Learning about meditation and the benefits of seeking a slower brainwave frequency is an added bonus too.
At first, Streett is interested in the paranormal and believes some people have genuine psychic abilities. Next, he has a life-changing spiritual experience and becomes a Christian. He comes to believe all psychic and paranormal activities are demonic. Then he studies magic, illusions, and mentalism, and concludes much of what he thought was demonic is actually illusion, deception, and mentalism. Finally, he investigates meditation and the activity of the subconscious brain and concludes that some psychic experiences are the result of tapping into the subconscious.
Before studying mentalism he says, “After spending decades of research into the nature of the paranormal, I was exhausted and no closer to finding answers than when I had first begun (p109).” Later he learned, “As our brainwaves slow down and the natural world recedes into the background, our faculties are heightened to glimpse the unseen and gain knowledge that seems to be supernatural in origin (p130).” “In the unconscious states we may have paranormal experiences, including strange and bizarre encounters with demons and angels, prophetic utterances, creative problem solving, and even healing of the body (p158).” Finally, he concludes “I now understand that while psychic experiences varied (e.g., automatic writing, intuition, angelic encounters, speaking to spirits, prophetic and inspired words, or spontaneous healing), they all had a common source – the subconscious mind, or more specifically, our brain as it operates at different speeds (p159).”
One conclusion the author asserts near the end of the book and after a lifetime of studying, is that meditation and deep, rhythmic breathing to enter a state with slower brainwaves is beneficial both physically and mentally.
I found the author’s journey studying the paranormal interesting and think his final conclusions are probably largely correct. But I also wonder at what point the ability to study the supernatural is beyond the scope of science. The title of the book included “miracles”, a nice alliteration, but miracles were barely discussed. I wanted to know if there were legitimate miracles that he investigated and if all healing claims really could be traced back to subconscious suggestions. I also would have liked to see more investigation from a non-Western perspective and outside of the United States. Also, I noted that the YouTube link on p137 did not work.
I found this book engaging and worth reading if you are curious about this topic or just enjoy biographies. Learning about meditation and the benefits of seeking a slower brainwave frequency is an added bonus too.
October 21, 2024
This is the book I’ve waited for years to be written. There are plenty of books out there detailing supernatural experiences from believers in the paranormal, and there are probably even more from evangelicals who are convinced the entirety of those experiences are demonic in nature.
I’ve heard all the arguments before, and there are some compelling stories out there. I’ve even had some strange experiences myself— most notably with my friend Nate when we spent the night in the abandoned prison where they filmed The Shawshank Redemption.
None of the typical answers seemed to explain my experience. If all paranormal happenings were demons, for example, then what was the point of a demon hanging out the basement of a prison spinning a shoe in circles from the ceiling? Didn’t it have better things to do? And what about those supposed stories of “ghosts” who had helped the FBI to solve cold cases? Were those demons masquerading as light— even to the point of solving crimes and doing some good? None of the answers seemed to quite make sense.
Last month I stumbled across this book. The cover isn’t exactly special in any way— it’s got Narnia woods vibes—but the summary caught my eye. A New Testament professor who has seemingly only written Bible commentaries up to this point writing a book on the paranormal? And it’s got a forward from yet another NT scholar?
Al Streett has broken the mold with this book. It’s 90% memoir, but Al’s story continues to take turns as he move from spiritualist to repentant convicted Christian— and this is where most evangelical books stop. But not this one.
The final chapter moves past the memoir and addresses some of the lingering questions. As with anything mysterious, there are still questions that remain… but this is hands down the best book I’ve ever read on ghosts, miracles, the supernatural— and it’s all done within an easily read 180 pages.
I’ve heard all the arguments before, and there are some compelling stories out there. I’ve even had some strange experiences myself— most notably with my friend Nate when we spent the night in the abandoned prison where they filmed The Shawshank Redemption.
None of the typical answers seemed to explain my experience. If all paranormal happenings were demons, for example, then what was the point of a demon hanging out the basement of a prison spinning a shoe in circles from the ceiling? Didn’t it have better things to do? And what about those supposed stories of “ghosts” who had helped the FBI to solve cold cases? Were those demons masquerading as light— even to the point of solving crimes and doing some good? None of the answers seemed to quite make sense.
Last month I stumbled across this book. The cover isn’t exactly special in any way— it’s got Narnia woods vibes—but the summary caught my eye. A New Testament professor who has seemingly only written Bible commentaries up to this point writing a book on the paranormal? And it’s got a forward from yet another NT scholar?
Al Streett has broken the mold with this book. It’s 90% memoir, but Al’s story continues to take turns as he move from spiritualist to repentant convicted Christian— and this is where most evangelical books stop. But not this one.
The final chapter moves past the memoir and addresses some of the lingering questions. As with anything mysterious, there are still questions that remain… but this is hands down the best book I’ve ever read on ghosts, miracles, the supernatural— and it’s all done within an easily read 180 pages.
November 16, 2024
The paranormal is becoming more mainstream these days. Many conservative Christians literally demonize it, but others are curious. Exploring the Paranormal is an evangelical take that is somewhat different than the “party line.” R. Alan Streett didn’t grow up evangelical—rather, he had a conversion experience while in seminary. Growing up interested in the paranormal (and there is some good information in part 1), he was open to it.
As I note elsewhere (Sects and Violence in the Ancient World), Streett came to see parapsychology as demonic after his conversion. This is a pretty typical evangelical attitude towards beliefs and situations outside their rather narrow constraints. Discovering hypnotherapy and the reality of different brain states, Streett came to understand the paranormal as something science could explain, without it being demonic.
For those of us recovering from an evangelical upbringing, there are some uncomfortable things here. Still, the book is not a total dismissal of parapsychology. It does seem to suggest that it’s not something supernatural outside of God’s direct control. That theological outlook is held with conviction, while allowing for a door that’s ajar on some phenomena. I would give it three-and-a-half stars, if I could.
As I note elsewhere (Sects and Violence in the Ancient World), Streett came to see parapsychology as demonic after his conversion. This is a pretty typical evangelical attitude towards beliefs and situations outside their rather narrow constraints. Discovering hypnotherapy and the reality of different brain states, Streett came to understand the paranormal as something science could explain, without it being demonic.
For those of us recovering from an evangelical upbringing, there are some uncomfortable things here. Still, the book is not a total dismissal of parapsychology. It does seem to suggest that it’s not something supernatural outside of God’s direct control. That theological outlook is held with conviction, while allowing for a door that’s ajar on some phenomena. I would give it three-and-a-half stars, if I could.
January 6, 2025
As a teacher and preacher, I often encourage my students and parishioners to read the book of Ecclesiastes in a single sitting. When I preach through the book, I often do so in a single sermon. This approach reflects the nature of Ecclesiastes itself: while it is rich with lessons, it carries one overarching message that the author conveys through his personal experiences and learning curve.
In much the same way, R. Alan Streett’s Paranormal invites readers to journey alongside him as he explores a complex and often misunderstood topic. While Streett is a highly respected scholar at the pinnacle of his field, his approach in this book is both humble and deeply personal. He reflects on his growing understanding of the subject, acknowledging how previous models or frameworks, while containing elements of truth, fell short of providing a complete picture. By sharing his own experiences and intellectual journey, he invites readers to wrestle with the same questions and discoveries.
Like Ecclesiastes, Paranormal is not merely a compilation of facts or lessons. It is a cohesive narrative, drawing the reader to consider a central truth that emerges from Streett’s thoughtful reflection and exploration. This makes the book both engaging and thought-provoking, as it challenges assumptions and provides fresh insights into a topic that is often dismissed or misunderstood.
Paranormal is a compelling read, and Streett’s transparent and narrative-driven style makes it accessible for anyone curious about the subject. Whether you’re well-versed in the topic or approaching it for the first time, this book offers a meaningful and enriching perspective.
In much the same way, R. Alan Streett’s Paranormal invites readers to journey alongside him as he explores a complex and often misunderstood topic. While Streett is a highly respected scholar at the pinnacle of his field, his approach in this book is both humble and deeply personal. He reflects on his growing understanding of the subject, acknowledging how previous models or frameworks, while containing elements of truth, fell short of providing a complete picture. By sharing his own experiences and intellectual journey, he invites readers to wrestle with the same questions and discoveries.
Like Ecclesiastes, Paranormal is not merely a compilation of facts or lessons. It is a cohesive narrative, drawing the reader to consider a central truth that emerges from Streett’s thoughtful reflection and exploration. This makes the book both engaging and thought-provoking, as it challenges assumptions and provides fresh insights into a topic that is often dismissed or misunderstood.
Paranormal is a compelling read, and Streett’s transparent and narrative-driven style makes it accessible for anyone curious about the subject. Whether you’re well-versed in the topic or approaching it for the first time, this book offers a meaningful and enriching perspective.
June 2, 2025
This book could have been named Exploring the Paranormal Scams.
It is an autobiography of a minister who was exposed to mediums doing readings of spirits for paying clients. During the course of studying for the ministry he eventually became a medium himself, putting himself into trances and speaking things he seemed to not be aware of. Eventually, he found that all the mediums he knew were faking it. That was the first half of the book. In the second half, he did explore other types of paranormal behaviors with goals of finding natural explanations for them. Those explanations ranged from outright scams (Uri Geller) and stage magic to brain wave patterns and what they can influence in general terms. There is no serious investigation or description of paranormal phenomena.
Anyone expecting more than a skeptical view of the paranormal experiences will be disappointed.
It is an autobiography of a minister who was exposed to mediums doing readings of spirits for paying clients. During the course of studying for the ministry he eventually became a medium himself, putting himself into trances and speaking things he seemed to not be aware of. Eventually, he found that all the mediums he knew were faking it. That was the first half of the book. In the second half, he did explore other types of paranormal behaviors with goals of finding natural explanations for them. Those explanations ranged from outright scams (Uri Geller) and stage magic to brain wave patterns and what they can influence in general terms. There is no serious investigation or description of paranormal phenomena.
Anyone expecting more than a skeptical view of the paranormal experiences will be disappointed.
December 30, 2024
A fascinating account of a biblical scholar's experience with the paranormal. Unfortunately, the author doesn't examine such experiences through the lens of the Bible (which is intentional), although he does make some cursory observations and comparisons in the conclusion of the book. His overall conclusion is insightful and surprising, given the author's background in a conservative Baptist environment (Criswell Bible College). There's much left to explore, which the author acknowledges, but one will have to turn elsewhere for an analysis of the paranormal from a purely biblical perspective.
March 19, 2025
Just finished this gem. The reviews that call this “a real page turner” are spot on. Anytime a person offers a lifetime of knowledge based on their experiences and research I highly recommend anyone and everyone to take advantage of it and read that book. If there is one book that Christians should read concerning the paranormal, it is this book. In my opinion, the sections on mind-body, the subconscious mind, and psychic phenomena are easily worth every penny spent on the book.
Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy today.
Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy today.
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April 6, 2025This is my favorite type of memoir. Streett melds his personal story with his epistemological and theological development. Importantly, he includes the many stories of "metanormal" experiences that he had along the way. This was a real page turner. Streett found himself involved with Spiritualists and psychics, born-again Charismatic Christians, renowned religious academics, stage magicians, and other groups. His understanding of parapsychology, however, I found to be somewhat limited, and I hope to review his book with a little more depth in the future.
April 15, 2025
I didn't want to like this book because of the slight preachy parts but darnit if it wasn't a fun, engaging read
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews