David J. Hogan’s 2016 non-fiction book about UFOs covers twenty centuries of history. He says, “I aim for it to tell readers enough about many aspects of UFOs to become a useful, portable guide, as well as to inspire further, more specific study."
The 407 pages in the book are divided into 16 chapters. After a general introduction about UFOs, there is a chapter which introduces the reader to the world’s leading UFOlogists, some dating back to the 1940s. UFO organizations from around the world are listed and notable books appear in italicized font. The next chapters deal with the variety of UFOs presumed out there and theories on how they propel themselves (ion drive, nuclear pulse propulsion, wormhole travel).
There is a fascinating chapter which follows a time line about the idea of UFOs from before recorded history to 1945. There are eyewitness accounts, and sections on Roswell and Area 51. Project Blue Book is discussed in details. There are interesting lists such as “Ten Notable Police Run-Ins with UFOs” and “Fifteen UFO Conspiracy Theories that Won’t Go Away”. Some accounts of alien encounters are friendly and some are frightening because they talk about abductions. The author also delves into how the UFO phenomenon has resulted in cults and quasi-religions.
The book ends with a few pages on hoaxes and a UFO spotter’s checklist. Here you learn the places to go to find UFOs (there is a listing for Canada) and suggestions on what to do if you encounter a UFO or alien. The book is very up-to date. There are sightings from 2016 included, information about the declassification of the Blue Book and a look at where UFOlogy is headed in the future.
This book would make a great gift for anyone already interested in the topic or those who are curious about learning more about UFOs.