Science of the Magical

By Matt Kaplan

Book Overview

From the author of The Science of Monsters, this engaging scientific inquiry provides a definitive look into the elements of mystical places and magical objects--from the philosopher's stone, to love potions to the oracles--from ancient history, mythology, and contemporary culture. Can migrations of birds foretell our future? Do phases of the moon hold sway over our lives? Are there sacred springs that cure the ill? What is the best way to brew a love potion? How do we create mutant humans who regenerate like Wolverine? In Science of the Magical , noted science journalist Matt Kaplan plumbs the rich, lively, and surprising history of the magical objects, places, and rituals that infuse ancient and contemporary myth. Like Ken Jennings and Mary Roach, Kaplan serves as a friendly armchair guide to the world of the supernatural. From the strengthening powers of Viking mead, to the super soldiers in movies like Captain America , Kaplan ranges across cultures and time periods to point out that there is often much more to these enduring magical narratives than mere fantasy. Informative and entertaining, Science of the Magical explores our world through the compelling scope of natural and human history and cutting-edge science.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1476777101
• ISBN13: 9781476777108
• Release Date: October 2015
• Publisher: Scribner Book Company
• Length: 256 Pages
• Weight: 0.96 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 6.2" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

Magically Scientific

I really enjoyed this book! The different magical hypothesis given ranged far and wide, from Biblical to regular fictional concepts, with enough personal stories about the author to personally relate the science to real life. It's a bonus that most of the myths were ranked as *plausible* and if not, many alternatives were given. A good resources for writing fiction too~ I recommend it!

Well-written, humorous and interesting. I would have immensely enjoyed the book...however, the amount of bias and propaganda scattered throughout completely ruined it for me.