by Deborah Blum
First published 3200
At the end of the 19th century, renowned Harvard professor William James embarks on an extraordinary quest: to scientifically prove the existence of ghosts. Staking his reputation and sanity, James forms a team of eminent researchers to investigate paranormal phenomena across America. From séances to strange sightings, they meticulously gather data that could shatter the divide between the physical and spiritual worlds. But the more James delves into the unknown, the more elusive the truth becomes—and the higher the stakes for his groundbreaking work. In the end, the father of modern psychology must confront his own skepticism and uncover the ultimate scientific mystery.
Genres: biography, historical-fiction, ghost-stories, paranormal, 19th-century, academic
Vibes: atmospheric, dark, thought-provoking
Tropes: academic-setting, scientific-inquiry, skepticism
Period: 19th Century
1000 pages · Hardcover · Century