Give it a chance and An Illustrated History of Ghosts will take you on a spooky journey around the world, but it’s unlike any other trip you’ll take. This is a journey where you lurk in the dark places through history, exploring different society’s relationships with death and what is said to come after it… ghosts. This beautifully illustrated study of ghosts and hauntings explores the fascination humans have always had with death and the dead in a way that spans time and cultures. From Spiritualism to Exorcisms, Ghost Towns, Timeslips and *hisssss* even skeptics, An Illustrated History of Ghosts leaves no haunted stone unturned, (which M. R. James has warned us about…)
The illustrations by Adam Allsuch Boardman are eerie, charming, and utterly captivating. Not only this, but the information presented throughout this tome is interesting and factually accurate. It’s such a captivating book which is accessible too, making it suitable for younger audiences, as well as grown up ghost geeks.
I really respect the fact that the publishers, Nobrow, took time to consult with experts* to ensure the book was accurate. This is not something that is always considered a priority when it comes to the publication of paranormal media, so deserves recognition.
One little detail I really love about the book is that at the back, just the before the glossary is an illustrated guide to ‘People of Ghostlore’ and if you look very closely, there is a tiny, little me. I am a person of ghostlore, and I am very flattered 🥰