AI Magazine Summary
The Shaman - No 09 - 1985
Ever wanted to host your own late-night paranormal radio show?
Across the Airwaves
You’re on the air. Callers bring Mothman, Fresno Nightcrawlers, UFO sightings, reptilian autopsies, and whispers about AATIP and Project Blue Book. Every reply shapes how the night goes.
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AI-Generated Summary
This issue of Aquarian magazine, identified by its page number '10', features a review of several books and magazines related to paranormal and esoteric subjects. The primary focus is on a series of four books from Aquarian Press, each priced at £2-50, which aim to present…
Magazine Overview
This issue of Aquarian magazine, identified by its page number '10', features a review of several books and magazines related to paranormal and esoteric subjects. The primary focus is on a series of four books from Aquarian Press, each priced at £2-50, which aim to present balanced views on fringe science topics. These books are "The Evidence for Alien Abductions" by John Rimmer, "The Evidence for UFOs" by Hilary Evans, "The Evidence for Visions of the Virgin Mary" by Kevin McClure, and "The Evidence for Bigfoot and Other Man-Beasts" by Janet & Colin Bord.
Book Reviews
The reviewer commends the series for being written "sensibly by sensible people," aiming for impartial and comprehensive assessments. Hilary Evans, the series editor, is noted for condensing numerous UFO theories in his book and analyzing the evidence, concluding that some sightings might be of alien origin. Kevin McClure's book on Marian apparitions is considered the least interesting, possibly due to anecdotal evidence. John Rimmer's book is read with great interest, with the reviewer appreciating his healthy skepticism and his connection of the white slave trade abduction rumour to UFOs, though feeling the shamanistic aspect is "woefully underplayed."
Janet and Colin Bord are described as "true professionals" who provide informative references and allow the reader to decide, a stance the reviewer admires.
Additionally, the issue reviews two poetry booklets by Chris Ashton: "Imprisoned in Paradise" (The Cepu Poems) and "Tales From Fiery Mountains." These are described as a "picaresque bunch of booklets overflowing with zest for life," evoking the "mysterious East."
Magazine Reviews
The magazine also reviews several other publications:
- MAGONIA: Described as a serious and independent UFO journal, it is presented as the claimant to the throne previously held by "Flying Saucer Review." Issue No. 15 features an overview of French thought on psych-sociological hypotheses and opinions on Chinese UFO attention. Issue No. 16 focuses on the "Myth" of ufology, and Issue No. 17 will examine the extraterrestrial theory in ufological thought. Subscriptions are £2 for 4 issues.
- THE SYMBOL: Flagship of the Pennick publishing empire, Issue No. 5 is noted for featuring Robert Anton Wilson's thoughts on "Holy Blood, Holy Grail." Issue No. 6 includes a reprint of Prudence Jones' "Eight and Nine" Norse sacred number thesis. The magazine covers various esoteric topics. Full details are available from Nigel at 142 Pheasant Rise, Bar Hill, Cambridge.
- STONEHENGE VIEWPOINT: This newsprint magazine covers archaeology, astronomy, geology, and related arts and sciences. Issue No. 62 is a "Dragon theme issue," reprinting earlier material by editor Donald Cyr and covering dragonlore, Wiltshire observatories, and ancient measuring units. It also offers a book order service. Subscriptions are 10 dollars for 14 issues in the U.S.A.
- PENDRAGON: A journal of the Pendragon Society, it covers Arthurian themes. Volume XVI, No. 2 includes articles on Badbury Rings and a history of Britain in the 5th century. Volume XVI, Nos. 3/4 focuses on the figure of Elen/Helen/St Helen, and the latter part of this double issue covers "gravestones." Subscriptions are £3 for 4 issues, including society membership.
Other Content
There are also mentions of Chris Ashton's latest poems, "Lost in The Mist" and "The Return to the Chamber of Horrors," which express discontent with Britain in 1984. The issue includes a "Noticeboard" and "Old News" section, and mentions of periodicals with articles on the "Matter of Britain."
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around paranormal phenomena, particularly UFOs and alien abductions, as well as broader esoteric and historical interests like Bigfoot, Marian apparitions, Arthurian legends, and ancient mysteries. The editorial stance, as reflected in the reviews, favors a balanced, impartial, and evidence-based approach to these subjects, while acknowledging the enthusiasm of some authors. There is a clear effort to present a wide range of perspectives within the ufology and paranormal communities, as evidenced by the diverse range of magazines and books reviewed.