http://www.ncreview.com/ 2506-1166 http://www.ncreview.com/psychic-communication/the-rational-psychic-a-skeptics-guide-to-extraordinary-perception Jack Rourke’s approach to explaining psychic phenomena reminds me of the story of The Three Bears – not too woo-woo, not too skeptical, but just right. His own story has elements in common with many stories I have heard before: a stressful childhood; ability to “know” things before they happen; suppressing his abilities because they were not “normal;” and then finally accepting one’s gifts and using them to help others. His gifts, I might add, are impressive and the case studies he relates are very convincing. It is not surprising that he is in demand as a consultant to the entertainment industry. His book provides helpful criteria for making the distinction between true psychics, able to provide objectively verifiable readings, and the often well-meaning, but unverifiable statements and prognostications of others who may be highly empathic, but are probably using a vivid imagination combined with good people-reading skills. I appreciated the methodical way he explains the different forms of extraordinary perception, the scientific basis for how they probably work, and how to develop and enhance your own skills. He provides a synthesis of his decades of research into psychology, neuroscience and physics to ground his explanations of paranormal phenomena and help the reader distinguish between the hype and true mystery. His stated aim is to show the way to safe and meaningful personal and spiritual development, and his own work is an inspiration in that regard. ]]> Thu, 11 Oct 2012 23:49:29 -0700 2506-1134 http://www.ncreview.com/psychic-communication/the-rational-psychic-a-skeptics-guide-to-extraordinary-perception I read this book because my friend begged me. She had a psychic reading with the author and couldn't stop talking about how amazing he is. I was resistant to reading the rational psychic because my friend nagged me but I LOVED this book. It really helped me understand me and my mom. Anyone who thinks they are psychic, or wants to develop their psychic powers will learn really, really important stuff that no psychic teacher I know EVER talks about, famous or not. I have a degree in psychology and everything written about in the rational psychic makes absolute perfect sense. This is not a fluffy "spiritual" feel-good book. The stories are so real and sometimes the teaching is tough to hear but the love and passion the author has for his work and those he works with literally oozes off the page. This book made me cry. It made me laugh. And it made me think, and see myself and other psychics in a completely new and more intimate way. This book will change you. It's amazing!! I highly recommend the rational psychic! ]]> Fri, 31 Aug 2012 20:13:18 -0700