Eerie Whispers - by Brian Baker (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Why are Canadians afraid of ghosts?

Canada's paranormal roots run deep. We tell ghost stories around flickering campfires and share unexplained encounters with family and friends. Yet our polite, risk-averse nation often buries these experiences, rarely encouraging them in the places we live or in our arts and entertainment. Fear of stigma and discomfort with the unknown -- especially death -- keep the supernatural in the shadows. We allow only flirtations with ghosts, ghouls, and goblins, mostly at Halloween.

Eerie Whispers explores Canada's haunted history, drawing from the diverse folklore of its immigrant communities and the traditional stories of Indigenous Peoples. It asks why Canadians, unlike Americans or the British, are reluctant to celebrate this part of our culture. Brian Baker encourages us to embrace the uncanny and find the courage needed to amplify our nation's supernatural voice.

Review Quotes

Brian Baker has crafted a smart, immersive, and emotional journey through Canada's haunted psyche. Baker's work is a testament to the fact that ghost stories aren't just entertainment, they're cultural reflections, holding up a mirror to who we are and what we choose to forget. This book lingers like a cold chill rising from the ground long after you put it down.

-- "Rouzbeh Heydari, filmmaker (A Hundred Lies, Astraea, Neon Lights)"

Eerie Whispers is a captivating journey into the heart of the unknown -- an exploration that both chills and enlightens. With an approach grounded in genuine curiosity and respect for the mysteries that surround us, Baker dares to ask questions of the genre that echo with authenticity and wonder.-- "Morgan Knudsen, host of Supernatural Circumstances"

A well-researched and engaging exploration of Canada's ghostly folklore, covering Indigenous, French, newcomer, and traditional Anglo stories. Through thoughtful journalism and personal insights, Brian Baker explores why Canadians are both fascinated by and cautious of their paranormal tales. This inclusive and thoughtful book demonstrates how supernatural stories shape our sense of identity at regional and national levels.-- "Mike Browne, host of Dark Poutine"

Baker captures the essence of the Canadian paranormal experience in a way that's deeply satisfying, intuitively educational, and surprisingly fun.-- "Ian Gibbs, author of the Most Haunted series"

About the Author

Brian Baker has been a journalist for over fifteen years, which means the University of Toronto alum is plenty curious. He is intrigued by what Canadians believe when it comes to the paranormal. So much so that he founded the Superstitious Times -- a website dedicated to exploring Canada's paranormal lore. He lives in Toronto.