Afterlife Encounters

by Dianne Arcangel, MS

Entangled Minds

by Dean Radin, Ph.D.

Experiencing The Next World Now

by Michael Grosso, PhD

Life At Death

by Kenneth Ring, PhD

Life Before Life

by Jim B. Tucker, MD

Limitless Mind

by Russell Targ

Messages And Miracles

by Louis LaGrand, PhD

Spirit Messenger

by Gordon Smith

Testimony of Light

by Helen Greaves

The Conscious Universe

by Dean Radin, PhD

The Gift

by Sally Rhine Feather, PhD

The Miracle of Death

by Betty J. Kovács, PhD

The Synchonized Universe

by Claude Swanson, PhD

Three weeks after the death of Frances Banks, long-time friend, Helen Greaves begins to receive a series of telepathic communications from her. The messages Helen receives span almost a year, in earthly terms, and describe Frances Banks’ remarkable journey after death. Frances expresses to Helen the process of how she first becomes assimilated on the other side, and the humbling and personal experience of reviewing her life on Earth.

But the story Frances conveys is so much more than this. She describes the work she is currently doing as being “thrilling and soul-satisfying.” She shares stories of how others she encounters are discovering their own progression and moving forward despite the effects of their past mistakes. “Here we live so much more in the realm of mind,” she says. There is no hiding behind facades, concurring with what is written in the Proverbs, “As you think, so shall you be.”

Although heavily worded at times, and frequently sprinkled with Frances’own religious beliefs due to her orientation as a nun, all readers should come away with an exhilarating feeling of hope and excitement for what is in store for us all.

First published in 1969, its message is timeless. Frances conveys this firsthand report of “the next phase of living to which we are all graduating” with the hope that if made public it will help all of us realize what we are working towards: spiritual perfection.

Review by Melissa Gould

Researchers and scientists that study phenomena that do not neatly fit into the established mainstream principles of physical reality certainly recognize that their endeavors will be widely criticized and anticipate their own frustration levels to soar. After reading Entangled Minds, an extraordinary work that encapsulates the history of, evidence for, and explanations of why, one might be inclined to scream out in unison.

Evidence in the scientific community is judged based upon odds against chance, or percentages that a particular test could be wrong. For example, in DNA forensic testing involving paternity questions, the odds that the DNA test could be wrong in a match with the father are approximately 100,000 to 1. In our legal system, those odds are sufficient for most of the courts in this country to unequivocally accept this as sufficient evidence and make rulings based upon this test. In Entangled Minds, Dr. Radin presents the statistics of many Psi tests that include tremendous volumes of data that show odds against chance in the billions to one, infinitely greater than the conclusive evidence used by the legal system. One might expect that such findings would make headlines and get featured as lead stories on television news programs. Yet, as Dr. Radin points out, not only does this not happen, but such results rarely even get mentioned in the scientific journals.

Of course, through direct experience, many realize that phenomena such as ESP and telepathy are real. Knowing that the phone is about to ring, sensing that someone is staring at you, dreams of a future event that later come true, all provide personal empirical evidence. For those who still question, a journey through Entangled Minds will very likely alter your view of the universe as well as your part in it. The big question here is not if Psi exists, but, “How does it work?”

This book will open most readers to the possibility that our minds are “entangled” with the universe, and it is very likely that quantum theory may offer a plausible explanation of “how.”

Dr. Radin posits the theory that our minds are embedded in what he playfully terms, “non-local

Jello-O ...where we can get glimpses of information about other people’s minds, distant objects, or the future and past.” In other words, when we experience the Psi phenomena, perhaps there is no actual “signal” that is being sent out and received, as is the standard explanation. Instead, Dr. Radin points out, it is “....because at some level our mind/brain is already coexistent with other people’s minds, distant objects, and everything else. To navigate through this space, we use attention and intention. From this perspective, psychic experiences are reframed not as mysterious ‘powers of the mind’ but as momentary glimpses of the entangled fabric of reality.”

Dr. Radin’s theories are profound, and will hopefully help to move Psi phenomena out of the realm of “mysticism” and “psychic power” into the more likely explanation of “entanglement.” More importantly, perhaps we would be better off viewing ourselves as part of a greater connected reality, a reality where our actions ripple through the universe. Entangled Minds just may offer that glimpse of which you have been searching.

Dean Radin, Ph.D. is Laboratory Director at the Institute of Noetic Sciences in Petaluma, California. For nearly two decades, he has conducted research on psychic phenomena in academia, corporate think tanks, and government projects.

There have been countless books published about the paranormal and enormous volumes of physics books made available to the public. Rarely do you find a book that not only combines the two, but clearly and systematically explains phenomena in terms that are understandable to the lay person. Dr. Swanson, a physicist educated at M.I.T. and Princeton, has done just that in his book The Synchronized Universe.

Dr. Swanson’s goal is to take the reader on a journey of recognition that “we are truly one universe.” In his introduction, he points out the rift in the world today between science and religion. He states, “Modern science does not allow for the possibility of the soul, or invisible beings, or have any laws of force which can account for the power of prayer. But what if modern science still has a few things to learn? What if present-day physics is leaving out a few important truths about the universe, as well?

“.... There are many phenomena which have been proven in the laboratory, and yet which mainstream physics steadfastly refuses to admit or recognize. Why? Because if it did, it would turn the present world-view of physics upside down.”

Dr. Swanson provides details about experiments done involving remote viewing, the ability to see and sense things at a distance. Our U.S. military ran remote viewing projects for many years with many of the results still classified. A comprehensive body of evidence is also presented concerning ESP (Extrasensory Perception), including experiments done by NASA, various universities, and the Chinese government. Startling experiments with psychokinesis (the ability to move or affect objects or living beings without touching them - done with only psychic interaction) are described and illustrated. Other topics include communication between cells, group consciousness, levitation, teleportation, out-of -body experiences, near death experiences, and many other psi related phenomena. Each topic is thoroughly discussed and includes the new evidence that supports the phenomena and how it changes previous scientific thought on the subject. The book concludes with Dr. Swanson’s own theory of the Synchronized Universe Model.

As you move through each fascinating and thought provoking chapter, you cannot help but redefine a previously constricted view of what constitutes consciousness and our universe. Evidence truly shows that our consciousness can leave our bodies. It can not only travel to other destinations, but travel back and forth in time. This book will certainly jolt anyone who previously thought of their existence as their physical bodies and worldly possessions.

This book was written in 1980 and remains essential reading for anyone curious about near death experiences. Dr. Ring spent over a year interviewing people who had come close to death. Unlike prior books that were written on the subject, this study was approached from a scientific point of view. Personal biases and opinions were carefully avoided.

Throughout the book we find the data surprising us with consistencies in the reported stages of the near death experience. Statistical breakdowns are illustrated showing percentages of those experiencing "peace and the sense of well being." Other categories include body separation, entering darkness, seeing and entering the light, and a decision to return. Most fascinating were the descriptions of the cognitive process, a surprising high percentage of people described very clear and rational thinking, with senses remaining sharp. After reviewing all of the data, the reader can draw his or her own conclusions as to the "prototypical" near death experience. However, it is clear from the data that not only does one become aware of another reality, but is drawn to it.

For those who ever felt that their consciousness defined who they were, as opposed to their bodies and brains, take a look at some of Dr. Ring's data. To date, there are very few ways to conduct scientific studies of possible afterlife phenomena. Advances have been made in mediumship research, and scientists continue to investigate possible "hardware" to enable communication with other dimensions. Much more research needs to be conducted with those who have undergone near death experiences; they offer us real glimpses of a world beyond. Dr. Ring is certainly a pioneer in this field.

Up until the present, science has always considered phenomena such as ESP, remote viewing, and mind-matter interaction to be on the “fringe” and not worthy of serious exploration. Documentation of such occurrences had been purely anecdotal, with little statistical data to back it up. In “ The Conscious Universe” Dr. Radin breaks the barrier and cites the evidence for psi to be included in mainstream science.

Too often we have been conditioned to believe that if it is not explained by modern science, then we should pay little attention to it. This presents a problem to those who have direct experiences. The fact is, the scientific community now has an overwhelming abundance of evidence proving that psi exists; yet, inexplicably there still remains a controversy in the scientific community. Dr. Radin examines the entire gamut of exploration, from exploring skepticism to citing all the evidence for telepathy, clairvoyance, precognition, psychic healing and psychokinesis. As the author points out, “Psi is our experience of the invisible interconnections that bind the universe together.”

After completing the book one is left to wonder how there can still remain a controversy. As Dr. Radin points out, “The bottom line is that if we do not expect to see psi, we won’t.”

For all those who wish to expand their knowledge and open up their minds to where psi fits in with the universe, this book is the place to start.

One might infer from the title that this is an exploration of methodology for catching glimpses of the world beyond while we are still in the physical. However, although such insights are most certainly shared by Dr. Grosso, this book offers much more. The full gamut of afterlife evidence is examined, from ancient wisdom to the technologically advanced experiments of today. As the empirical evidence is methodically introduced to us, the author makes it crystal clear that we should be equally concerned and moved by its implications; the ultimate goal being a changed perspective of the world in which we live and participate.

The evidence that is examined in this work focuses on four aspects of consciousness studies: mediumship, out-of-body experiences, reincarnation, and apparitions. Cases are presented from such phenomena as near-death experiences and death-bed visions, compelling evidence that our minds can indeed travel and act independently of our brains. The implications are clear - if consciousness is not dependent on the brain, survival after we physically die is a logical assumption.

We often talk about researchers and scientists “believing” but not really “knowing.” When talking about apparitions, Dr. Grosso is able to offer a unique perspective; he has had his own experience of seeing a ghost. Despite this very personal vision, the subject matter of apparitions, ghosts, and dreams is examined from an independent perspective, with particular attention to the hallucination vs. true experience debate. Throughout the book, in the author’s own words, “My aim is to provide you with tools for making your own judgment, although I will let you know how I feel along the way.”

Dr. Grosso has a unique perspective with regard to psychic ability and evolution. The question is raised as to the purpose of such ability while we navigate our physical lives. The author’s suggestion as to the purpose is both thought provoking and logical: perhaps after we physically die, when we are pure entities of consciousness, these psychic powers are the foundation for our whole existence. The implication is that if we can recognize and hone these skills now, our existence and communicative abilities in the next world will be enhanced.

In this remarkable book the journey comes full circle. After being shown compelling evidence for an afterlife, we are urged to find our own evidence and experiences in this life. According to Dr. Grosso, “The proposal is that we reframe life after death into a question of enlightenment now.”

Michael Grosso, Ph.D. can be reached through his website www.parapsi.com.

I must admit that I was compelled to read this book by the title, as I was both appalled and intrigued by the description. Why would anyone call death a miracle? The author was either seriously misguided or possessed unusual wisdom; as I read the book I realized that the latter was true.

Dr. Kovács lost her mother, her only son, and her husband in separate car accidents, all within a three year period. As a professor of literature, symbolic language, writing, and mythology, Betty was very much aware of cultural and mythological traditions that embraced the concept of death; however, the horror of such personal tragedy would now test the limits of her intellectual beliefs.

The author begins by recounting her childhood where her cultural interactions conveyed a sense of emptiness and lack of meaning. She describes a thirst for knowledge beyond the information that her education was portraying as truth. Instead of suppressing feelings that were not “logical” to the rational mind, she decided to embrace her connections to the universe and her intuitive mind. By exploration of the cosmic mind, she knew that “there is nothing but life,” and, as Ghandi knew, “Birth and death are not two different states, but they are different aspects of the same state.”

Much of her adult life was filled with dream imagery, most of which was meticulously journaled. Many of these experiences, detailed in the book, offered great insight into worlds that most cannot see in addition to being pre-cognitive. The author insightfully draws the comparison between the ancients who understood the mystery of death and birth, and modern quantum physicists who find that sudden elementary particles emerge from vacuums, even where there are no atoms, no elementary particles, protons or photons. This concept of life emerging from emptiness is similar to the spiritual notion that each of us is at the center of the universe, and is “an integral part of the flaring forth of this continuous creative act that began fifteen billion light-years ago with the Big Bang.”

The reader of this book will have the good fortune to share in many messages passed on from Dr. Kovács’ husband and son from the other side. One comes away with the belief that, as Betty writes, “Love and life are indestructible,” much as Forever Family Foundation espouses “The bonds of love cannot be broken, even by death.” I cannot help but think that one day in the near future science will actually discover that the emotion of love is a form of energy that allows this continuous communication. The concept of death giving birth to life is certainly not a new one; however, Dr. Kovács brings us a step closer to the knowledge that death is a unifying energy that merges with creativity, love and life.
- Bob Ginsberg

Dr. Kovács can be reached via the website www.kamlak.com

One would be hard-pressed to identify a family that has been more important to the field of parapsychology than the Rhines. Drs. J.B and Louisa Rhine pioneered the scientific study of ESP starting in the 1930’s. Their original work has been replicated and expanded upon by major scientists and laboratories around the world. Needless to say, as the daughter of this couple, Sally was exposed to cutting edge research at an early age. Continuing in their footsteps, Dr. Sally Rhine Feather has established a huge body of research on her own. In a collaboration with accomplished writer Michael Schmicker, The Gift is a comprehensive collection of experiences and insights, tied together with examples of solid research.

The authors begin by pointing out that the broad term of ESP, or extra-sensory perception, is “the ability of the human mind to perceive or experience without the help of the five senses.” Although the familiar five senses might assist in the interpretation of the communications, they are not able to act as receptors of the raw information. The book details personal accounts of many different types of phenomena that fit under this general category of “psi.” Fascinating examples of precognition, clairvoyance and telepathy among the living, as well as reported messages from the dead, are presented in dramatic fashion. ESP examples relating to love, children, disasters, fate, and more fill the pages in a flowing fashion that will make the book hard to put down. I suspect that many readers will recognize some of their own experiences as they absorb these true accounts.

One will come away from the book with the understanding that ESP experiences do not depend on age, religion, education, or culture. In fact, one logical conclusion may very well be that ESP should be taken out of the “paranormal” nomenclature. It has existed and has been reported throughout history, and may be just as “normal” as our other known senses.

As each phenomenon is examined, the authors are careful to balance, as they point out, “open-mindedness and critical judgment.” Those interested in the subject would expect and demand nothing else. If you have had experiences for which you seek an explanation, if you want to see an abundance of astounding evidence, or if you want to stimulate some inner contemplation, I strongly recommend that you read The Gift.
- Bob Ginsberg

Dr. Rhine Feather can be reached at the website www.rhine.org

Limitless Mind is the latest book by physicist and remote viewing research pioneer Russell Targ. Targ, after examining decades of “Psi” research, comes to the conclusion that “we are capable of expanded awareness far beyond our physical bodies.... In fact, the principal finding of this research demonstrates that there is no known spatial or temporal limit to our awareness.”

In this book, we are not only presented with the enormous body of evidence of remote viewing and healing, but we are given a blueprint for experiencing these phenomena ourselves. In this respect, Limitless Mind presents a rare occurence: An experienced and esteemed scientist so convinced by the evidence of thought transference that he feels compelled to teach the methodology. What better way to raise awareness of these phenomena but to have the reader actually participate?

Dicussions and evidence of quantum theory, timelessness, dreams, precognition, physical responses to thought stimuli, and medical intuitiveness all move the reader to reach the inevitable conclusion that our minds are not dependent on our brains, and our consciousness can span time. In reading Limitless Mind one cannot escape the irony that today’s scientists may very well become the “spritual prophets” of the future.

The book is presented from the point of view of a trained researcher; however, Dianne’s background as former hospice worker and director of the Elizabeth Kubler-Ross Center adds much depth to the encounters and their meaning. The book will take you on a journey of afterlife exploration as it not only relates and categorizes the types of such encounters, but teaches us their meaning and effects they have on one’s grief.

Is it possible that science, research, and spirituality are leading us down the same path? Is the finality of death truly the end? This book is a must read for anyone that has ever pondered these questions.

Dianne Arcangel, M.S. can be contacted via her website: www.afterlife-encounters.com and www.Arcangel.net.