"Ghosts of St. Charles" (The History Press, 128 pages, $19.99; paperback)

Michael Henry has worked as a teacher, engineer and computer consultant. Now, he's published "Ghosts of St. Charles," a complement to his ghost tours.

Is your book more history or mystery? It is more history. I researched the events behind the stories. But as with ghosts in general, the mystery remains.

What is St. Charles' most haunted building? The "Mother-in-Law House" probably reports the most activity, but Farmer's Home is also interesting. There are enough events here to justify another 30 years of research.

You're also a magician. Doesn't that undercut the believability of paranormal claims? I began to study magic because many paranormal "investigators" are frauds. They use standard magic tricks to "create" ghosts. I need to know when the data I collect is valid. I simply gather the data, make sure it is as accurate as possible and then share the facts.

By Jane Henderson