As an author of a book on ghost lore and an avid reader of all things paranormal, I am always looking for new and exciting literature on this particular genre.  Recently, I came across a book on the fascinating topic of the unexplained written by S.M. Belkurov, a.k.a. Shaun B., a paranormal profiler and the co-founder of the group SPOOKS (Springfield Paranormal Organization Operating with Kinetic Surveillance).  Belkurov has been investigating the paranormal and strange for 18 years now.

The Springfield, Missouri writer has created a book that embarks on topics in the paranormal which are rarely touched.  I have read stacks of books on ghost lore and folklore in my 34 years, but none like The Paranormal Cookbook.  Before turning the first page, I thought that I would find a collection of recipes.  How to make ghost goulash?  Perhaps chupacabra casserole?  Well, maybe it was just wishful thinking as I was pretty hungry when I decided to read it.  I was pleasantly surprised though when I realized this cookbook had nothing to do with food at all.  Instead, this was a cookbook chock-full of cryptozoology, ghost lore and unexplainable legends.  The book mentions everything from Skinwalker sightings and UFOs to hellhounds and poltergeists.  There is something for every paranormal enthusiast in this publication.

Belkurov included many detailed accounts and examples of various cases which have taken place over the years in the paranormal field, such as the story of the Fox sisters, considered to be early day charlatans.  Also discussed in the book is the famous case of the Bell Witch of Tennessee, a tale that needs to be read by every paranormal enthusiast.  Belkurov talks about the mysterious Men in Black, explaining that it’s more than just a Will Smith movie.  Then there are the phantom clowns.  Now, I must admit, I don’t care for clowns.  No, let me rephrase that.  I detest them.  To me, those pasty white faces and big, floppy shoes represent evil in its purest form.  For those of you who share my feeling or have seen Stephen King’s IT, you will definitely be spooked when reading Belkurov’s section on this variety of carnival creep.  Black Eyed Kids, or BEKs, are also mentioned in Belkurov’s publication, and for those of you who are familiar with these menancing minors, you will want to read on.  If cryptids are more your thing, this author features some great ones such as the Mothman, Bigfoot and my all time personal favorite, the Jersey Devil.  Throughout the book, Belkurov cites the well-known and respected cryptozoologist, Loren Coleman, and supplies us with his thoughts on these strange and unusual cryptid curiosities which lurk amongst us.

In addition to his highly detailed accounts of cryptozoology and various legends, Belkurov includes the ever popular topic of ghosts.  I greatly enjoyed how he considers “ghost hunting to be the new black,” referring to the recent rise in the field of the paranormal.  The author goes on to speak of para-mania by saying that paranormal researchers “were once perceived like an odd, mentally challenged uncle that everyone puts up with, but no one takes seriously.  We are now the life of the party.” As far as I am concerned, no truer words have been spoken.  I have often uttered very similar words to my colleagues.  Belkurov continues to discuss the popularity of ghosts right now in the media, and even lists numerous para-reality television shows and para-films that are the current craze.  The author also includes accounts of old-fashioned seances, and certain controversial tools used in the field today such as Ouija boards and mirrors.

For the eternal pessimist and doomsday lover alike, Belkurov talks about the great prophecies of 2012.  Will the world really come to an end, or is it just hype?  And for the scientist, there is plenty on Quantum Physics, observer effects and synchronicity.  The Paranormal Cookbook presents the intertwinement of science and the paranormal, and whether or not skeptics can ever transition into becoming believers.

Spirituality and religion are not left behind in Belkurov’s book either, as he touches upon Christianity and more New Age beliefs such as hypnosis, yoga and mediation.  In addition, the writer embraces sensitive topics such as Satanism, the rituals involved and the associated stigmata.

I must say that one of my favorite stories, albeit short in length and perhaps overlooked by some readers, is about validity of the afterlife.  The story called “Roses in the Snow,” is one of Belkurov’s first tales in his book, and one which is most touching.  I will not give away the story, but what I can say is, it shows strong support for the continuation of life even after death.  I also took great pleasure in reading a blip on Belkurov’s ideas of paranormal exchange programs and how we, as field researchers, can learn from and collaborate with others instead of being competitive and petty.  This really hit home for me as I recently had a situation arise with a fellow investigator who felt the need to be territorial in her research, rather than working along with me.  It’s sad to see this happen so often in the field of paranormal investigation, so to hear that others share my world-peace view is very reassuring.  In addition to these great pieces, I found myself re-reading over and over the section on cursed movies.  I am a huge fan of horror, and this was a section that I found to be quite fascinating.  Most of us are familiar with the tragic deaths of the young female actresses in the movie Poltergiest, but there were also other films who had their share of unfortunate events during and after production.  You certainly won’t want to miss this chapter.

Belkurov provides much literature on the topic of parapsychology, its legitimacy and its pioneers we know so well, such as J.B. Rhine.  It is obvious that Belkurov is knowedgable and has done his research on the subject.  His accounts are thorough and nicely constructed.  He also speaks to his readers about psychic abilities, and strong intent or will, which may possibly influence the environment around us.  Are we too quick as a paranormal-loving society to accept the unexplained as just that, or are these unusual experiences power of the mind, coaxed mentally?  Can we attribute ghostly images to something more rational, and logically explained?  Belkurov asks the important question, “Can science explain everything?”  Are there mysteries in our universe that science simply cannot touch?  I’m with Blekurov on this one, “I want to believe.”

In conclusion, Belkurov expertly provides detailed text on belief systems, various theories and what they all mean.  We learn, as readers, about supernatural experiences and how we process them.  Belkurov’s ample listings throughout his book of psychological and scientific experiments are sure to grab the attention of those well-versed in the paranormal, as well as those who are just learning.  Paranormal phenomenon of all kinds is nicely represented in this book.  Belkurov gives us chapter after chapter of great insight to various hard-to-explain theories and phenomenon based on strong, valid research.  This book is highly detailed and smartly written, with a touch of humor and wit. Belkurov mixes magic and psychology with science and religion into one big crock pot.  He stirs them together and lets them simmer until the end result is nothing short of paranormally delicious.  With a sprinkle and dash of legend and lore, Belkurov got the ingredients just right.

S.M. Belkurov can be contacted through his website: SPOOKSFIELD.COM