The Haunting of Las Vegas  
  • The Haunting of Las Vegas

copyright Courtesy of Pelican Publishing Company

The Haunting of Las Vegas

by Janice Oberding. Pelican Publishing Company, 2008; $15.95.

This isn’t a guidebook in the sense of getting advice on where to eat, drink and stay, but if you want to know where to find ghosts and spooky spots, this is the book for you. Janice Oberding, who has been a consultant on paranormal matters to The History Channel and Travel Channel, among others, digs deep into the history of Sin City to reveal all sorts of fascinating tales.

Pros

Really detailed histories and long stories about the characters that have populated Las Vegas make this a fascinating read. It’s a lot of fun to learn all about the early days of the city—Oberding takes the time to go in depth. You won’t find a lot of these stories in other guides.

Great Tips

Some people love nothing more than to book a hotel room with storied other-worldly visitors or bars with a sketchy past. You’ll find out where they are in this book. Oberding did her homework—there is an extensive bibliography of sources she used. And don’t worry, Elvis fans will be relieved to find out about a famous Elvis séance, including where his spirit is said to hang out backstage, as well as his favorite hotel suite and drugstore.

Cons

Regular guidebook features, such as details on costs, contact information, reviews of hotels, restaurants and so forth, are not given.

Worth Buying?

Not if you want a traditional guidebook.

 

Read a review of Blackbook Guide to Las Vegas 2009.