Readers can learn about, compare and experiment with eight of the most popular psychic arts. Quotes and information gleaned from interviews with more than 250 psychic researchers and practitioners are included with anecdotes about psychic occurences from people in all walks of life. The second part of the book is the how-to section with a chapter for each of the astrology, numerology, tarot, I Ching, palmistry, ESP, graphology and biorhythm. For each discipline, the reader can learn what it is, how it works, its history, what kind of information it provides, what to expect from a professional reading and complete instructions on how to do it yourself.
This is an interesting book that attempts to deliver both sides of the paranormal argument: (1) these powers are real and we all have at least some minor ability to use them, and (2) that point 1 is wishful thinking based on the ruses of charlatans.
I've read books before about paranormal phenomena that were... well, hokey. This book presents interviews and recorded scientific studies in a way that is reminiscent of many other nonfiction textbooks. The author often goes out of his way (in my opinion) to make sure that both sides are presented, even when it's obvious he doesn't agree with the explanations offered by people who don't believe in these phenomena. That's what I liked most about this book: The information is presented; whether or not you believe in it is up to you.
Whether you believe psychic powers or don't, the stories within this book are fascinating accounts of events that are, at the very least, difficult to explain. As far as I'm concerned, that ambiguity makes for some good leisure reading.
The style is kind of breezy and it makes a lot of claims without a lot of supporting references. On the plus side it coveres a lot of ground and gives you a lot to think about.