Strange but True: 10 of the World’s Greatest Mysteries Explained

In her cogent introduction to this evenhanded exploration of unsolved and oft-debated phenomena (aliens, ghosts, clairvoyance), Hulick encourages readers to deliberate on each mystery independently and provides sage guidelines for reaching conclusions. She advises kids to “check the sources. Interrogate the evidence. Watch out for coincidences. And remember that simple explanations are more likely to be true. At the same time, keep an open mind.” The author follows her own counsel in her thoroughly researched and diligently documented accounts, which integrate scientific data, information about the extraordinary workings of the human brain, the power of imagination, and a healthy dose of skepticism. Wright’s expansive mixed-media illustrations underscore the drama and eeriness of many curiosities spotlighted, including the search for Atlantis and other alleged lost worlds, beliefs that aliens visited ancient civilizations, and the possibility of returning to life after death. Ages 10–14. (Oct.)