Science of the Magical

From the Holy Grail to Love Potions to Superpowers

Nonfiction, Social & Cultural Studies, Social Science, Folklore & Mythology, Cultural Studies, Popular Culture, Religion & Spirituality, New Age
Cover of the book Science of the Magical by Matt Kaplan, Scribner
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Matt Kaplan ISBN: 9781476777139
Publisher: Scribner Publication: October 27, 2015
Imprint: Scribner Language: English
Author: Matt Kaplan
ISBN: 9781476777139
Publisher: Scribner
Publication: October 27, 2015
Imprint: Scribner
Language: English

“Filled with cool cocktail-party tidbits, Matt Kaplan considers how things that were once the stuff of legends could one day become reality” (The Atlantic) in this fun scientific inquiry into the mystical places and magical objects of ancient and contemporary lore—from the fountain of youth, to love potions, to Super Mario’s mushrooms.

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, Matt Kaplan takes us on a journey spiced with the wonders of myth, history and art, leavened with impeccable research, endlessly fascinating. And the result is both a compelling read and a deeply thoughtful exploration of the world around us and the ways we seek to understand it” (Deborah Blum, author of The Poisoner’s Handbook). 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 such as Captain America, Kaplan explores 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 is “a sprightly survey” (The Wall Street Journal) and “a joy to read…highly recommended” (Library Journal, starred review).

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

“Filled with cool cocktail-party tidbits, Matt Kaplan considers how things that were once the stuff of legends could one day become reality” (The Atlantic) in this fun scientific inquiry into the mystical places and magical objects of ancient and contemporary lore—from the fountain of youth, to love potions, to Super Mario’s mushrooms.

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, Matt Kaplan takes us on a journey spiced with the wonders of myth, history and art, leavened with impeccable research, endlessly fascinating. And the result is both a compelling read and a deeply thoughtful exploration of the world around us and the ways we seek to understand it” (Deborah Blum, author of The Poisoner’s Handbook). 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 such as Captain America, Kaplan explores 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 is “a sprightly survey” (The Wall Street Journal) and “a joy to read…highly recommended” (Library Journal, starred review).

More books from Scribner

Cover of the book Tapping the Source by Matt Kaplan
Cover of the book The Art of Seeing by Matt Kaplan
Cover of the book The Addiction Solution by Matt Kaplan
Cover of the book Kill the Father by Matt Kaplan
Cover of the book Rapture Ready! by Matt Kaplan
Cover of the book Savage Garden by Matt Kaplan
Cover of the book Little League Confidential by Matt Kaplan
Cover of the book The Glass House by Matt Kaplan
Cover of the book Dear Scott, Dearest Zelda by Matt Kaplan
Cover of the book Wear and Tear by Matt Kaplan
Cover of the book Rose Madder by Matt Kaplan
Cover of the book The Extra Man by Matt Kaplan
Cover of the book Taco USA by Matt Kaplan
Cover of the book A Farewell to Arms by Matt Kaplan
Cover of the book From a Buick 8 by Matt Kaplan
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy