Book Reviews
Everyday Extraordinary
A Scientist Ponders a Lifetime of Magical, Bizarre, and Paranormal Experiences
Barry Markovsky
March 17, 2026
ISBN-13: 9781493093793
Prometheus Books
Contact: Anthony Pomes, apomes@globepequot.com
Reviewed by Edith G. Tolchin (edietolchin.com/book-reviews)
Says author, Barry Markovsky: “This book’s title implies that extraordinary events (like this) are commonplace. But what makes them seem extraordinary is usually a matter of inexperience with the phenomenon, or lack of familiarity with its probable causes.”
As a grade schooler, Markovsky began to question religion, beginning with the uncertainty of a “God bless you” after a sneeze. And how does one explain a UFO? The author is a believer there, but is a skeptic of organized religion, dowsing, astrology and Transcendental Meditation (via a lengthy chapter explaining “The Maharishi Effect.”)
Regarding clairvoyants and ESP, though a nonbeliever, Markovsky advises, “Consumer, be informed; psychic, be honest.”
According to Markovsky, “Nonbelievers find conspiracy theories ridiculous.” He lists many of them, dating back to the 1940s, refuting each with an “Official story.” Logic v. conspiracy.
In the Epilogue, Markovsky summarizes—quite perfectly—"Supernatural stories are fun. Supernatural beliefs are, too, but ought not be mistaken for the natural world—which is already quite super without the adornment of myths and fallacies.”
Surreality buffs: this is your book; it’s a fascinating topic that few authors, if any, have analyzed so thoroughly, in depth. In semi-memoir format, Markovsky relates, chronologically, his experiences with unusual happenings, and gives seemingly logical explanations for these phenomena. A thorough “Notes” section affords readers the option to do further research on any topic of interest.
Edith G. Tolchin has been a journalist, editor, author, and book reviewer since 1998. She has written five books, most recently Fanny on Fire and Secrets of Successful Women Inventors. She has done over 150 interviews and 60 book reviews. Contact her at edietolchin.com.