The Evidence for Phantom Hitch-hikers ― An Objective Survey of the Vanishing Passenger from Urban Myths to Actual Events

Goss explores the meaning and causes of this phenomenon. In terms of purpose and behavior, the Phantom Hitch-Hiker of urban folklore is a thoroughly conventional ghost: one who matches popular expectations of what a ghost is, what it does, and why. He or she is the spirit of a deceased person, the victim of a tragic accident, which resulted in the premature termination of earthly existence. It would appear that these "ghosts" are motivated by, especially on the anniversaries of their unfortunate accidents, a desire to complete their unfinished homeward journey. It would also appear that they do not know that they are dead.

Oringinally published in 1984, this was among the first books to address itself seriously to such questions and to examine the available evidence for these encounters critically and objectively.

Aspects covered include:

• The Phantom Hitch-Hiker as folklore
• The Hitch-Hiker as prophet
• Literary precedents--the Demon Lover
• The role of the press
• The sexual element
• The historical background
• Evaluating the evidence

This is a book for anyone who enjoys a good ghost story, as well for serious students of paranormal phenomena.