Claims of Reincarnation

Dr Pasricha is well known for her research into children who remember previous lives and was a close collaborator of Prof Ian Stevenson. This book, first published in 1990, is based on a 1978 PhD thesis in which the author investigated 60 cases in India, comparing the features with a similar number from Stevenson. It is an exceptionally thorough piece of work, beginning with a review of previous work – I had not realised that the earliest studies date back to the late 19th century. The parameters of her study are then described, along with results and an extensive discussion of potential interpretations, both normal and paranormal. These end with reincarnation, which explains more adequately not only the memories and occasional birthmarks associated with them, but also behavioural and skill similarities. The author then describes the research that she has carried out since the book was first published, with her current database of 300 cases. Overall, this makes an excellent and balanced introduction to the field for those not already familiar, while it will extend the knowledge of people who are already acquainted with it.