Regular readers/listeners know that I am into the paranormal, specifically ghosts, demons, possessions and hauntings. I read about it throughout the year and, of course, have gone on many investigations of purportedly haunted locations. But as this is the time of year when everyone’s thoughts turn to the spooky side, it’s a good time for a book that shares some of these haunted tales, along with the true stories behind them. 

If you’re anything like me, when it comes to stories about ghosts that supposedly haunt a place, I want to know what’s behind it. Not just why the spirit might be sticking around, but as much of the history of the location as I can find. Colin Dickey is accomplishing just that in Ghostland: An American History in Haunted Places. He delves into the tales people tell of haunted locations across the US – including some of his own experiences – and then lets you know what has really gone on with the history of the place.

By sharing the truth behind the lore, the author isn’t trying to debunk everything that visitors claim has happened. What he does is clarify the backstories that have become so widely accepted as truths about locations, covering everywhere from West Virginia Penitentiary in Moundsville, WV to the Winchester House in San Jose, CA. And while the “legends” make for good ready, some of the actual history of these places is even more fascinating. (Having investigated that prison in Moundsville, I can tell you it’s plenty creepy enough without the stories!)

So if you consider yourself a skeptic when it comes to the paranormal (which simply means you question it, not that you simply dismiss it all) and you’re a “behind the scenes” kind of person, Ghostland is a recommended read. It will make you think about the stories you hear about haunted locations and the explanations given for those hauntings. And it might even inspire you to do some investigating of your own.