52,000+ Esoteric Books Free + Modern Compare Prices
Home Collections Mediumship
👻

Mediumship Books: A Curated Reading List

Mediumship books trace the communication with spirits from historical accounts to modern investigations. Works like Arthur Conan Doyle's 'The Vital Message' (1919) and Harry Houdini's critical examination 'Miracle Mongers and Their Methods' (1920) offer contrasting perspectives on the subject. This reading list provides a structured approach for beginners and serious students to understand the theory, practice, and controversies surrounding mediumship.

Top Mediumship Books

25 Mediumship books
PAGE-TURNER
The Road to Oz
📖
The Road to Oz
Baum, L. Frank (Lyman Frank)
4.3
71
Ozma of Oz
📖
Ozma of Oz
Baum, L. Frank (Lyman Frank)
4.3
71
The Prophet
📖
The Prophet
Gibran, Kahlil
4.4
73
Daemonologie.
📖
Daemonologie.
James I, King of England
4.3
71
Satan
📖
Satan
Lewis Sperry Chafer
4.6
82
❤️ HEARTBREAKER
The Green Mouse
📖
The Green Mouse
Robert W. (Robert William) Chambers
4.4
75
🧠 MIND-EXPANDING
The Upanishads
📖
The Upanishads
Swami [Translator] Paramananda
4.5
76
The Pursuit of God
📖
The Pursuit of God
Tozer, A. W. (Aiden Wilson)
4.3
72

What is Mediumship?

Mediumship refers to the practice of purported communication between a living person, known as a medium, and one or more deceased spirits. This communication is believed to occur through various channels, including telepathy, clairvoyance, and clairaudience. Historically, the phenomenon has been documented across cultures and through different eras, often intersecting with spiritualism and parapsychology.

Best Books for Complete Beginners

For those new to the subject, understanding the historical context and early explorations is key. Arthur Conan Doyle's 'The Vital Message' (1919) offers a sympathetic view of spiritualist phenomena, while L. Frank Baum's Oz books, such as 'The Marvelous Land of Oz' (1904), though fictional, tap into themes of unseen worlds and communication. Charles Mackay's 'Memoirs of Extraordinary Popular Delusions' (1841) provides critical historical context by examining past societal beliefs, including spiritualist movements, offering a balanced perspective on how such ideas have taken hold.

Intermediate Reading

Moving beyond introductory concepts, intermediate texts delve deeper into the mechanics and skepticism surrounding mediumship. Harry Houdini's 'Miracle Mongers and Their Methods' (1920) offers a crucial look at debunking fraudulent practices, essential for any serious student. J. L. Kennon's 'The Planet Mars and Its Inhabitants, a Psychic Revelation' (1901) presents a specific, albeit unusual, narrative of psychic communication. Works like 'The Prophet of Berkeley Square' (1901) by Robert Hichens explore fictionalized accounts of spiritual encounters, prompting reflection on the nature of belief and perception.

Classical / Advanced Texts

Advanced study involves engaging with foundational philosophical and religious texts that inform concepts of spirit and consciousness. 'The Upanishads' offers ancient Indian philosophical insights into the self and the cosmos. Laozi's 'The Tao Teh King' (2014 translation) provides a foundational text for Taoism, exploring universal principles and the flow of existence. The Deuterocanonical Books of the Bible (Apocrypha) contain texts that touch upon prophecy and divine communication, offering a different historical and theological perspective on spiritual interaction.

Reading Order — Step by Step

Begin with foundational historical overviews. Month 1: Start with Charles Mackay's 'Memoirs of Extraordinary Popular Delusions' (Volume 1, 1841) to grasp historical belief patterns. Follow with Arthur Conan Doyle's 'The Vital Message' (1919) for a sympathetic early 20th-century perspective. Month 2: Engage with Harry Houdini's 'Miracle Mongers and Their Methods' (1920) for a critical counterpoint. Read J. L. Kennon's 'The Planet Mars and Its Inhabitants' (1901) for a specific case study. Month 3+: Explore philosophical underpinnings with 'The Upanishads' and Laozi's 'The Tao Teh King' (2014). Consider the Apocrypha for religious context.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which mediumship book should I read first?

For a beginner, starting with Charles Mackay's 'Memoirs of Extraordinary Popular Delusions — Volume 1' provides essential historical context on how beliefs spread. Arthur Conan Doyle's 'The Vital Message' offers a sympathetic early 20th-century view.

How do I distinguish between genuine and fraudulent mediumship?

Critical reading is key. Harry Houdini's 'Miracle Mongers and Their Methods' details common tricks used by fraudulent mediums. Comparing sympathetic accounts with skeptical analyses, like Mackay's work, helps develop discernment.

Are there fictional books that explore mediumship themes?

Yes, L. Frank Baum's Oz books, such as 'The Marvelous Land of Oz', and Robert Hichens' 'The Prophet of Berkeley Square' touch upon themes of unseen worlds and communication, offering imaginative perspectives.

What are the philosophical roots of mediumship beliefs?

Ancient texts like 'The Upanishads' and 'The Tao Teh King' explore consciousness, the soul, and universal principles that underpin some concepts of spirit communication, offering a deeper philosophical context.

Where can I find historical accounts of mediumship?

Charles Mackay's 'Memoirs of Extraordinary Popular Delusions' extensively covers historical phenomena and beliefs, including those related to spiritualism and psychic claims, providing a broad overview.

What is the role of skepticism in studying mediumship?

Skepticism is vital for critical evaluation. Authors like Harry Houdini actively debunked fraudulent claims, providing methods and reasoning to question extraordinary phenomena, which is crucial for balanced study.

Why Each Book Matters

The book of Enoch

The book of Enoch

'The book of Enoch,' an ancient Jewish religious work traditionally attributed to Noah's great-grandfather, describes his journeys to heaven and visions of angels and cosmic mysteries. This apocryphal text is filled with accounts of interaction with non-human spiritual entities, including fallen Watchers. It offers a profound historical and esoteric perspective on communication with other-worldly beings, making it highly relevant to the study of Mediumship and spiritual contact.

The Pagans

The Pagans

by Arlo Bates

Published in 1884, 'The Pagans' by Arlo Bates critiques societal norms through the lens of a bohemian art community. This novel explores non-conformity and alternative belief systems, which aligns with the broader esoteric context of Mediumship, often practiced by those who challenge mainstream thought. It delves into the search for genuine expression and spiritual freedom, mirroring the individualistic path many take in spiritual exploration.

The Vital Message

The Vital Message

by Arthur Conan Doyle

Arthur Conan Doyle's 'The Vital Message,' published in 1919, is a powerful advocacy for Spiritualism and the reality of spirit communication. Following personal tragedies, Doyle became a fervent believer, presenting arguments and evidence for life after death and the efficacy of Mediumship. This book offers a compelling case from a respected public figure, providing valuable insights into the spiritualist perspective on Mediumship.

The Road to Oz

The Road to Oz

by Baum, L. Frank (Lyman Frank)

Baum, L. Frank (Lyman Frank)'s 'The Road to Oz,' published in 1909, continues Dorothy's adventures in the magical land, introducing new companions like the Shaggy Man. This fantastical journey, filled with encounters with magical beings and hidden realms, serves as a delightful metaphor for exploring unseen dimensions and communicating with non-ordinary entities, providing an accessible entry point to themes resonant with Mediumship and spiritual exploration.

Ozma of Oz

Ozma of Oz

by Baum, L. Frank (Lyman Frank)

L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum's 'Ozma of Oz,' a classic from 1907, transports readers to a fantastical realm where characters like Tik-Tok and Billina the Yellow Hen interact with magical beings and unseen powers. This imaginative journey into other dimensions serves as a delightful metaphor for the exploration of hidden worlds and communication with non-ordinary entities, providing an accessible entry point to themes resonant with Mediumship.

Thought-Forms

Thought-Forms

by Besant, Annie

'Thought-Forms,' co-authored by Annie Besant and C.W. Leadbeater and published in 1901, is a seminal Theosophical work that explores how human thoughts and emotions create energetic forms visible to clairvoyant perception. This text is highly relevant to Mediumship, as it provides a theoretical framework for understanding how non-physical energies and communications might manifest and be perceived, offering insights into the mechanics of spiritual interaction.

Palmistry for All

Palmistry for All

by Cheiro

Renowned palmist Cheiro (William John Warner) published 'Palmistry for All' in 1916, making the art accessible to a wide audience. Similar to 'Indian Palmistry,' this guide explores the interpretation of hand lines and features to reveal insights into character and destiny. As a form of divination, it aligns with the broader esoteric pursuit of accessing hidden knowledge and understanding unseen influences, connecting it to the spiritual quest found in Mediumship.

The Big Four

The Big Four

by Christie, Agatha

Agatha Christie's 'The Big Four,' a Hercule Poirot mystery from 1927, plunges the detective into an international conspiracy. Like many of Christie's works, it involves uncovering hidden truths and solving complex puzzles through keen observation and deduction. This investigative process can be metaphorically linked to the medium's role in revealing veiled information from unseen sources, making it a fascinating read for those interested in the uncovering of secrets.

Indian Palmistry

Indian Palmistry

by Dale, J. B., Mrs.

Mrs. J. B. Dale's 'Indian Palmistry' provides insights into the ancient Indian art of palmistry, interpreting lines and mounts for life predictions. While distinct from direct spirit communication, palmistry is a form of divination that seeks to access hidden knowledge about an individual's destiny and character through subtle cues. This practice shares the broader esoteric goal of revealing the unseen, connecting it to the wider field of spiritual inquiry and Mediumship.

The Lake

The Lake

by George Moore

George Moore's 'The Lake,' published in 1905, is an introspective novel exploring themes of spiritual longing and personal awakening through the story of an Irish priest. While not directly about Mediumship, its deep dive into the protagonist's inner life and search for meaning can resonate with the spiritual quest that often leads individuals to explore communication beyond the mundane, touching on the profound human desire for connection and understanding of the unseen.

The Prophet

The Prophet

by Gibran, Kahlil

Kahlil Gibran's timeless masterpiece, 'The Prophet,' first published in 1923, consists of 26 prose poems delivered by the prophet Almustafa. This work is often regarded as a profound source of spiritual wisdom, offering guidance on love, joy, sorrow, and other aspects of life. Its message, delivered through a prophetic voice, can be seen as a form of channeled inspiration, aligning with the concept of receiving profound insights through Mediumship.

The Magic Skin

The Magic Skin

by Honoré de Balzac

Honoré de Balzac's 'The Magic Skin' (La Peau de chagrin), originally published in 1831, is a powerful allegorical novel exploring desire, destiny, and the unseen forces that shape human lives. The central magical object, a wild ass's skin that grants wishes but shrinks with each desire, symbolizes the profound influences spiritualists might associate with Mediumship—the hidden powers and consequences of interacting with the supernatural.

Astral Worship

Astral Worship

by J. H. Hill

'Astral Worship' by J. H. Hill delves into ancient astronomical and astrological beliefs and their connection to spiritual concepts. This work explores the nature of the astral plane and its inhabitants, which is a central concept in many esoteric understandings of where spirits reside and how Mediumship functions. It offers insights into the energetic dimensions that spiritualists believe facilitate communication with discarnate entities.

Daemonologie.

Daemonologie.

by James I, King of England

James I, King of England's 'Daemonologie,' written in 1597, is a philosophical dissertation on witchcraft and demonology. This work reflects the prevailing beliefs of the era regarding spirits, witches, and their interactions with the human world. It provides invaluable historical context for understanding the evolution of spiritual beliefs and the societal perception of those who claimed to interact with the unseen, offering a crucial backdrop to the study of Mediumship.

Faust — Part 1

Faust — Part 1

by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's 'Faust — Part 1,' first published in 1808, reimagines the classic German legend of a scholar who makes a pact with the devil. This dramatic poem explores profound themes of human ambition, the quest for forbidden knowledge, and the interaction between human and spiritual realms. It offers a literary lens through which to examine the allure and perils of engaging with supernatural entities, echoing aspects of Mediumship.

Pagan Papers

Pagan Papers

by Kenneth Grahame

Kenneth Grahame's 'Pagan Papers,' a collection of essays published in 1893, showcases his distinctive whimsical and melancholic style, often expressing a deep reverence for nature and ancient myths. While not directly about Mediumship, these essays evoke a sense of connection to primal spiritual forces and the unseen energies of the natural world, offering a literary perspective on the subtle influences that many esoteric practices explore.

The Road to Oz

The Road to Oz

by L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum

L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum's 'The Road to Oz,' published in 1909, continues Dorothy's adventures in the magical land, introducing new companions like the Shaggy Man. This fantastical journey, filled with encounters with magical beings and hidden realms, serves as a delightful metaphor for exploring unseen dimensions and communicating with non-ordinary entities, providing an accessible entry point to themes resonant with Mediumship and spiritual exploration.

Satan

Satan

by Lewis Sperry Chafer

In 'Satan,' Lewis Sperry Chafer, a prominent dispensationalist theologian, presents a detailed theological examination of the entity of Satan and demonic forces. This work offers a contrasting perspective to spiritualist views on discarnate entities, exploring the nature of evil spirits and their interactions with humanity from a strictly Christian doctrinal standpoint, providing a crucial counterpoint in the broader discussion of spiritual communication and Mediumship.

The black pearl

The black pearl

by Lion, Marie

'The black pearl' by Marie Lion is an adventure story, likely from the early 20th century, centering on a valuable and elusive gem. Like many tales of mystery and hidden treasures, it involves the uncovering of secrets and the pursuit of something beyond ordinary reach. This narrative can be seen as a metaphorical journey into the unknown, paralleling the medium's quest to reveal hidden knowledge from the spiritual realm.

The Witch of Atlas

The Witch of Atlas

by Percy Bysshe Shelley

Percy Bysshe Shelley's 'The Witch of Atlas,' written in 1820, is an allegorical poem describing the journeys and magical abilities of a mysterious enchantress. This work offers a poetic exploration of mystical powers, ethereal beings, and the ability to perceive beyond the ordinary. It provides an artistic and imaginative perspective on themes explored in Mediumship, such as spiritual perception and interaction with subtle realms.

The Green Mouse

The Green Mouse

by Robert W. (Robert William) Chambers

Robert W. (Robert William) Chambers' 'The Green Mouse,' published in 1910, is a humorous romance featuring a fantastical invention that influences human relationships. While a work of light fiction, its themes of quirky, unexpected events and the 'unseen hand' of fate or influence can be metaphorically linked to the subtle spiritual influences or serendipitous connections that some attribute to higher guidance, offering a charming take on unseen forces.

The Upanishads

The Upanishads

by Swami [Translator] Paramananda

Translated by Swami [Translator] Paramananda, 'The Upanishads' are ancient Sanskrit texts, dating back to 800-400 BCE, forming the concluding part of the Vedas. These foundational texts of Hindu philosophy explore the nature of ultimate reality (Brahman), consciousness, and the self (Atman). They provide a profound spiritual and philosophical framework for understanding the non-physical aspects of existence and the potential for spiritual connection that underlies Mediumship.

The Pursuit of God

The Pursuit of God

by Tozer, A. W. (Aiden Wilson)

A. W. (Aiden Wilson) Tozer's 'The Pursuit of God,' published in 1948, is a classic work of Christian mysticism that emphasizes the deep desire for divine connection and spiritual intimacy. While rooted in Christian theology, its central theme of seeking a profound, personal relationship with the divine can be seen as a parallel to the spiritual yearning and quest for communion that drives many individuals to explore Mediumship and other forms of spiritual contact.

Guy Mannering

Guy Mannering

by Walter Scott

Walter Scott's 'Guy Mannering,' published in 1815, is a historical novel rich with themes of prophecy, fate, and the supernatural elements embedded in Scottish folklore. The character of Meg Merrilies, a Romani prophetess, plays a significant role, offering glimpses into future events. This exploration of intuitive foresight and premonitions connects to the broader spectrum of psychic abilities often associated with Mediumship and spiritual insight.

Blind Love

Blind Love

by Wilkie Collins

Wilkie Collins's posthumously published novel, 'Blind Love,' completed by Walter Besant, is a captivating mystery that unravels a complex web of secrets and deceptions. Though a work of fiction, its intricate plot and focus on hidden truths and unseen influences can be metaphorically linked to the revelations sought through Mediumship, where veiled information from other realms is brought to light, challenging conventional perceptions of reality and justice.

Esoteric Library
Browse Esoteric Library
📚 All 52,000+ Books 🜍 Alchemy & Hermeticism 🔮 Magic & Ritual 🌙 Witchcraft & Paganism Astrology & Cosmology 🃏 Divination & Tarot 📜 Occult Philosophy ✡️ Kabbalah & Jewish Mysticism 🕉️ Mysticism & Contemplation 🕊️ Theosophy & Anthroposophy 🏛️ Freemasonry & Secret Societies 👻 Spiritualism & Afterlife 📖 Sacred Texts & Gnosticism 👁️ Supernatural & Occult Fiction 🧘 Spiritual Development 📚 Esoteric History & Biography
Esoteric Library
📑 Collections 📤 Upload Your Book
Account
🔑 Sign In Create Account
Info
About Esoteric Library