Deadly Blessings

A young couple watched their infant son die of meningitis even as their Christian Science "practitioner" promised that prayer was all the child needed. The parents were prosecuted, leading to a six-year legal battle. A West Coast psychotherapist's practice involved a bewildering array of drugs, New Age metaphysics, and mind control. One of her patients died after a bizarre "hot tub" treatment. The psychotherapist was taken to court. A Filipino "psychic surgeon" claimed that he could remove tumours without breaking the skin. The husband of one patient complained to his local prosecutor. "Brother Joe" was put on trial.This is a penetrating examination of three controversial court cases. With exceptional insight, Richard J Brenneman delves into the minds of those who believe that faith or magic alone can cure physical and emotional ills. The book is a combination courtroom thriller, human drama, and first-rate piece of investigative reporting. Brenneman adds a unique, compassionate perspective because he's been there. He is a former Christian Scientist, he lived in a commune, and (at one time) he believed in psychic surgery.