Weird Science: Biology Professor Pens Paranormal Book Series

Published: October 29, 2013 | Read Time: 2 minutes

Paranormal is said to be beyond the scope of normal scientific understanding, but for Southern Utah University associate professor of biology, Helen Boswell, science can explain everything from clairvoyance to flying, well she can explain it in her books at least.

Morphing her two greatest loves, science and writing, Boswell began transcribing a paranormal fiction novel as merely a way to release creative behavior, but now a few years later she is the author of a two supernatural books, Mythology and Mythology: The Wicked, and she has promised fans she will be finishing the series.

Boswell explains that integrating her two passions has been the most gratifying challenge in her career.

“In paranormal things don’t need explanations,” stated Boswell. “Characters morph into animals, read each other minds, see into the future and fly through the clouds. Even though these abilities are physiologically impossible, I find the greatest joy using my biology background to explain the why and make the most bizarre situation believable.”

Finding, and sometimes creating, a bridge between the factual and the fictitious, Boswell has her characters, who have the power to fly and read minds, entangle in mystical entities and protect their loved ones when a horrific demons threaten the laws that balance the supernatural.  

But writing this paranormal book series isn’t just a creative outlet anymore, Boswell also uses her career duality to connect with students and remain creative for biology research.

“Being a biologist and an author keeps my mind alert,” explained Boswell. “I am always troubleshooting things in my head, from a student situation, how I should formulate new research or what my character should do next. Being able to have multiple arenas where my attention is needed is actually my way to be alert.”

To be half biologist, half author began when she took her first college English course, but instead of dropping that inclination to write, since she was pursuing a degree in the supposed opposite direction, she decided to keep the hobby.

Now with the ability to pen paranormal fiction Boswell is finding a way to relate it to SUU students. Tuesday, October 29 she will be presenting “Breaking Wicked Stereotypes: Angels, Demons and Paranormal,” an informational, and highly entertaining, hour for students, faculty, staff and community members to attend and learn how she uses both worlds to create an interdisciplinary pastime that has proven more than effective.

The lecture will take place at 7 p.m. in the Braithwaite Gallery. The event is free and all are welcome to attend.

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