Library Journal

Written by experienced authors who rely on in-depth research and draw careful conclusions, these works compellingly highlight key events, issues, themes, and theories concerning UFOs and myriad other unsolved mysteries. Wilson revises and updates material he has already presented in such works as The Encyclopedia of the Unsolved Mysteries (1988) and From Atlantis to the Sphinx (LJ 6/15/97), dividing his investigation into 75 enduring mysteries, from crop circles to poltergeists to Atlantis. For example, he probes the history of the curse of the Hope Diamond, bringing to light the possibility that the diamond, like other crystals, is sensitive to the vibrations of the mind and that a curse could therefore be imprinted on it. Though not all entries are of equal depth, they include enough information to make this work helpful. Lewis (The Astrology Encyclopedia; Angels A to Z; religion, Univ. of Wisconsin, Stevens Point) here highlights UFO religions, folklore, and mythology, and the details seem to flow like water. In addition to articles from 20 contributors, the book contains an extensive bibliography, a chronology of UFO sightings from 1837 to 1998, and, as an example of UFO spirituality, a document from the Heaven's Gate cult, whose members committed mass suicide in 1997 in expectation of arriving UFOs. A listing of UFO-related organizations, periodicals, and web sites enable readers to pursue the subject as interest dictates. Good primers for those first exploring this territory, both works are sure to entice casual readers. Lewis's, perhaps better suited than Wilson's to the reference shelf, should also be included in all UFO collections, for its alphabetical table of contents makes it easy to locate each topic, and the opportunities for further research assure its timeliness.--Leroy Hommerding, Fort Myers Beach P.L. Dist., FL Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.