Prometheus Books is preparing to publish a new work of popular science that examines the roots of paranormal belief and conspiracy thinking. Scheduled for release in March 2026, Everyday Extraordinary: A Scientist Ponders a Lifetime of Magical, Bizarre, and Paranormal Experiences is authored by sociologist Barry Markovsky and will be issued in hardback at $29.95 USD. The 288-page book, sized at 6 x 9 inches and featuring six black-and-white illustrations, is aimed at readers seeking clear, accessible explanations behind seemingly supernatural experiences.
Publisher’s Positioning
The publisher, known for its sceptical and evidence-driven catalogue, describes the book as a timely counter to the growing influence of fringe beliefs. According to the official description, Everyday Extraordinary “provides an antidote for the fringe beliefs and science denial prevailing in today’s pop culture.”
Prometheus Books highlights the work’s relevance amid concerns about the spread of misinformation and the societal consequences of pseudoscientific claims.
Structure and Approach of the Book
Markovsky organises the book into chronologically arranged chapters, each consisting of two sections titled “Frontstage” and “Backstage.”
The “Frontstage” narratives recount the author’s personal brushings with unusual experiences, including “Awakening from a night terror as a young child; Having his fortune told by a psychic; The claims of an alternative medicine practitioner.” These stories mirror the anecdotal accounts that circulate through social networks, families and entertainment media.
The “Backstage” sections provide scientific analysis. They address “mechanisms and functions behind dreaming; deceptive ‘cold reading’ techniques used by psychics; distorted evidence promoted by quack doctors.” Prometheus Books notes that “Each explanation is scientifically grounded, presented with minimal jargon, and softened with anecdotes, illustrations, and humor.”
Cultural and Commercial Context
The publisher frames the book with a central question: “Experiences with strange phenomena such as ghosts, UFOs, psychics, and miracle cures make for titillating stories. Many of us treat these stories as just that—stories—but for some people, the rabbit hole of conspiracy theories and otherworldly happenings leads down a dark path. Paranoia and the belief in the paranormal have real-life consequences. What is the science behind these scenarios?”
With public institutions increasingly focused on tackling misinformation, Everyday Extraordinary enters the market as a work positioned at the intersection of science communication, psychology, and cultural analysis. Its blend of memoir-style storytelling and explanatory commentary may attract both general readers and academic audiences.
Insights into Everyday Experiences
The book argues that phenomena commonly seen as mysterious are often part of ordinary human experience. As the description states, “Everyday Extraordinary makes sense of things that at first seem inexplicable. Many of these experiences feel special and unique despite being remarkably common. And even when not experienced directly, most are all too familiar to readers through reality TV shows, tabloids, and social media.”
Industry and Media Engagement
Prometheus Books is inviting interest from reviewers, journalists and booksellers ahead of publication. The publisher notes:
“If you are interested in a physical (when available) and/or digitally watermarked (available NOW) review copy, excerpt, op-ed, or interview with Barry Markovsky, please contact Anthony Pomes whenever you like at [email protected].”
