"For the expert investigation of the human will to believe, we recommend The Encyclopedia of Superstitions." - The New York Times
Why is it said that breaking a mirror or walking under ladders will bring bad luck and misfortunate? Ever wonder why so many people throw salt over their shoulders after spilling it, or wish on shooting stars? The Encyclopedia of Superstitions holds the answers to these questions and more. This classic and captivating reference book catalogs the origins of hundreds of superstitious beliefs and includes a rich history of charms, spells, folklore, and rural remedies drawn from cultures around the world used to commemorate births, marriages, deaths, to ward off evil, or invite good fortune. Edwin and Mona A. Radford uncover why catching a falling leaf in autumn is believed to stave off colds all winter and explain the traditional Norse mythological roots of kissing under the mistletoe at Christmas. They explore the myriad of beliefs surrounding the moon or what spotting a rainbow portends and why. This thought-provoking collection provides a wealth of entertaining entries-stories that have the power to thrill, intrigue, and perhaps send a chill down the spine of even the most skeptical of readers.

Edwin and Mona A. Radford were a British husband and wife writing team who published prolifically from the 1940s through 1970. They were known for their murder-mystery series about the fictional Inspector Manson.

This classic and thoroughly delightful reference explores the origins of superstitions. You'll discover the origins behind charms, spells, fairy lore and legend, folk remedies and customs of birth, marriage, and death. This collection will be a staple in your library for years and generations to come.