GHOSTS OF THE POCONOS

Ghosts of the Poconos, L’Aura Hladik Hoffman, Schiffer Publishing Ltd, Atglen, PA, 2017, 160pp, $19.99. [Note – this is a hard cover book]

I used to drive through the Poconos fairly regularly, and if I’d known about these haunted sites, I certainly would have investigated. 

        Pennsylvania is a big state of over 46,000 square miles, and although the Poconos take up only about five percent of that, they have plenty of ghost stories. 

        The Poconos are located just over Pennsylvania’s border with New Jersey, and there are a lot of resorts, restaurants, and casinos for those inclined to partake. There are also beautiful woodlands and stunning waterfalls that beckon photographers all seasons of the year. And now, armed with L’Aura Hladik Hoffman’s book, ghost hunters will be visiting, as well, I’m sure.

        L’Aura personally visited the sites and shared photos of each. I enjoyed her personable style of relating her adventures. In addition to the hauntings, she offers tips on places to stay and eat (even menu items), and points out private property where ghost hunters are prohibited. 

        L’Aura describes each locale and gives background on other people’s reported experiences. She also shares her own experiences, some of which are disappointing. That’s how it is when you go ghost hunting—sometimes the ghosts decide not to cooperate.

        A few of L’Aura’s experiences include fresh camera battery dying, photographing orbs (lovely, moody photo of orbs on page 21), an “overwhelming and disturbing feeling” at the Old Jail Museum in Jim Thorpe (formerly Mauch Chunk), and her husband Kent’s captured EVP of “I’m here” and knocks in response to questions in the ladies’ room at the Tom X Pub in East Stroudsburg. 

        In addition to ghostly tales and spooky experiences, L’Aura provides information for beginner ghost hunters. 

        Chapter 24 lists best practices for safety in investigating and documenting the paranormal. Most are common sense (get permission, scope the area ahead of time, carry your cell phone at all times, be professional, etc.) but it’s good to review the list before planning your trip.

        Chapter 25 explains (with photos) how ghosts can appear in pictures. Yes, a full-body apparition would be nice, but that orb in your photo might not be dust or pollen. A vortex, or white tornado-like image, may be “a cluster of orbs or spirits getting ready to separate.” The cloud in your photo may be ectoplasmic mist or vapor. Take a second look before you decide to delete photos you think are no good.

        Chapter 26 explains how to classify EVPs. 

        Chapter 27 is an indispensable directory of paranormal organizations, researchers and tours in the Poconos. Always research before you head out on a ghost hunt. You want to be sure you know if the site is open to the public, what the hours are, and the person or people you should connect with if you want to learn more about their ghosts.

        Ghosts of the Poconos is an entertaining and informative look at ghost hunting. Although not all the sites L’Aura visited resulted in an experience, her narration shows how much fun a ghost hunting excursion can be. You may not always find a ghost, but you’ll meet interesting people who have some pretty spooky experiences to share.

- Karen Howard