Blum, Deborah. Ghost hunters; William James and the search for scientific proof of life after death.

BLUM, Deborah. Ghost hunters; William James and the search for scientific proof of life after death. Read by George K. Wilson. 12 cds. 14.75 hrs. BBC Audiobooks America. 2006. 0-7927-4511-6. $110.95. Vinyl; content, author, reader notes. SA

William James, brother of the novelist Henry James, was one of the first professors of psychology and the author of the first textbook. He was also considered one of the leading intellectuals of his day. With other researchers, thinkers, psychologists and even evolutionists at the end of the 19th century, he investigated psychic ability, fortune-telling, communicating with the dead and other paranormal phenomena. One of the most fascinating aspects of the book is these early researchers' attempt to undercover fakes and charlatans, as well as their discovery of some practitioners who seemed to have genuine psychic abilities, such as Ms. Lenora Piper, a woman who knew more than anyone had an explanation for. This book treats their work with respect and centers it within the cultural and historical context it deserves, covering the early days of the new science of psychology. Wilson's professional reading respects a story that may seem farfetched from our modern viewpoint. His women's voices, however, annoy.

S--Recommended for senior high school students.

A--Recommended for advanced students and adults. This code will help librarians and teachers working in high schools where there are honors and advanced placement students. This also help extend KLIATT's usefulness in public libraries.

Nola Theiss, Sanibel, FL