Download E-books Science of the Magical: From the Holy Grail to Love Potions to Superpowers PDF
“Filled with cool cocktail-party tidbits, Matt Kaplan considers how issues that have been as soon as the stuff of legends might at some point turn into truth” (The Atlantic) during this enjoyable clinical inquiry into the paranormal locations and magical items of historical and modern lore—from the fountain of minor, to like potions, to great Mario’s mushrooms.
Can migrations of birds foretell our destiny? Do stages of the moon carry sway over our lives? Are there sacred springs that treatment the ailing? what's the most sensible method to brew a love potion? How will we create mutant people who regenerate like Wolverine?
“In technological know-how of the Magical, Matt Kaplan takes us on a trip spiced with the wonders of delusion, background and paintings, leavened with impeccable examine, ceaselessly attention-grabbing. And the result's either a compelling learn and a deeply considerate exploration of the realm round us and the methods we search to appreciate it” (Deborah Blum, writer of The Poisoner’s Handbook). Like Ken Jennings and Mary Roach, Kaplan serves as a pleasant armchair consultant to the area of the supernatural. From the strengthening powers of Viking mead to the great squaddies in videos resembling Captain America, Kaplan explores cultures and time classes to indicate that there's usually even more to those enduring magical narratives than mere fable. Informative and enjoyable, Science of the Magical is “a sprightly survey” (The Wall highway Journal) and “a pleasure to read…highly advised” (Library Journal, starred review).