Lore of the Ghost: The Origins of the Most Famous Ghost Stories Throughout the World

by Brian Haughton, Daniele Serra (Illustrator)

Lore of the Ghost is an original and thought-provoking exploration of the numerous categories of ghosts and hauntings throughout the world. It discusses the possible motives for each type of haunting? from phantom white ladies and spectral black dogs to haunted highways and ghostly vehicles--what they represent, why they occur, and their possible functions.

Genres: Ghosts, Folklore, Nonfiction

192 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2008

Reviews

[Angel Garlinger · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is one of the most BORING books I've ever tried to read. I wish I wouldn't have spent the money I spend buying this book. I forced myself to read it hoping I would at least find one good thing about it since it's very rare that I can't find anything good about a book especially a book about ghosts but I never found anything good about it. It bored me beyond belief. I would not recommend this book to anyone. If you for some reason still want to read it try to get it from library or borrow it or something. I wish I would have had someone to warn me about buying it. The only reason I gave it one star is becuase you have to give them at least one on here lol.

[Caleb · Rating 1 out of 5]

A short, superficial survey of ghost stories from Europe and the U.S., drawn from other sources and not offering a lot of original insight or even entertaining writing. Kind of like reading a really long final project from a college senior on the subject.

[MKF · Rating 2 out of 5]

A more skeptical look at ghost stories and ghostly legends and there connection to folklore and history. Some chapters seemed out of place because those stories have little or no connections to any folklore. It's refreshing to read a book that debunks most of these popular legends and stories and there possible origins.

[Sophie Lynne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Semi-academic look at various types of hauntings. Pandering at times, but a good overview of types and local lore. Uses a lot of 19th century and earlier sources, which I think is a plus.

[Michelle · Rating 2 out of 5]

Hmmm...he took a fascinating topic and managed to make it dull and very dry. I had higher hopes for this book.

[Kathryn Grace Loves Horror · Rating 4 out of 5]

I see a lot of reviews describe this book as boring, but I found it interesting and informative.