ESP

School Library Journal

Gr 5-8-This unbiased presentation leads off with half a dozen descriptions of experiments that purportedly demonstrate the existence of extrasensory abilities in humans and animals. One reporter describes her participation in a Ganzfeld telepathy study and other contributors tell of Russian telekinesis and of experiments with ESP in animals, insects, and humans. The CIA's foray into "remote viewing" offers some proof of the potential value of ESP. Nearly every essay in the "fact" half of the book is directly countered by one in the "fiction" section. Arguments by skeptical investigators cast doubt on the reality of supernormal abilities and disparage the methods used to study them. The well-structured introduction provides solid background information on the subject, and the epilogue walks readers through a logical method for analyzing the essays. This work brings a careful, thoughtful balance to a sometimes emotional field. However, many books, including some in the various "Opposing Viewpoints" series (Greenhaven), present one or several sides of this topic.-Ann G. Brouse, Steele Memorial Library, Elmira, NY Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.