Curious and Curiouser! A Historical Background to Some Fascinating Beliefs and Traditions
by Dr. Monica-Maria Stapelberg

[Body, Mind & Spirit / General]

In Curious and Curiouser, Dr. Monica-Maria Stapelberg shares the results of her many years of research and her extensive travels around the world uncovering the historical background behind numerous common beliefs and traditions.

This easy-to-read book is a collection of interesting facts and fascinating ‘things you never knew you wanted to know’ — the type of book a reader can dip in to at any time. The topics covered range from those of general interest to the more specific, enlightening readers and busting old myths.

Included are varying forms of magic and divination; strange beliefs about charms and omens; select customs surrounding birth, marriage and death; intriguing notions regarding the human body, as well as animals, plants, trees, numbers, metals and precious stones — all with an emphasis on historicity. Other topics relate to witchcraft, the devil and hell, as well as the often strange curative practices of the past such as the ‘King’s touch’, a dead man’s healing stroke, the transference of disease, trepanation and other curious therapeutic methods.

Curious and Curiouser brings to light how many of our day-to-day words, phrases and actions are anchored in past ritual magic, ancient sacrificial observances, or simply fearful superstitious notions. In addition to being a fascinating read, the book contains numerous images, is well indexed, and is divided into small sections, making it a handy reference guide for those wanting quick answers to puzzling questions.

Plunge into this book and be amazed. We’re sure you’ll enjoy it — cross our hearts!