Near-death experiences (NDEs) are endlessly fascinating for those who long for Heaven or are just curious about the things we cannot see (yet). Lost in all the discussion of NDEs, however, is their long, rich history. Saints and mystics have been visiting Heaven for thousands of years, and here, for the first time, Scott L. Smith provides you with a glimpse of what they've been seeing these past two millennia.

In these heart-pounding pages, you will first learn about the ancient origin of NDEs and seven characteristics that describe them. Then, through studies of present-day cardiac and comatose patients, you will see what modern medical research says about NDEs. (You will be surprised!)

You will see remarkable similarities between the NDE stories of biblical figures, such as Jonah, St. Paul, and St. John the Evangelist, and those of more modern individuals, such as Thérèse of Lisieux, Faustina Kowalska, and Padre Pio. Smith shares an array of God's merciful messages from the great beyond through people's visits to Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven, documenting current-day stories, including:

• The NDEs of Fr. Cedric Pesigna, including one while watching a Boston Red Sox game
  
• Author Kevin Wells's story of Heaven's victory over his certain death and spiritual oppression
  
• Sondra Abrahams's NDE, which drove home the importance of reforming our lives and praying for the dead -- even if we think they are without hope or definitely in Heaven
  
• The NDE of Fr. Stephen Scheier, who glimpsed Hell because of the casual way he treated the sacrament of Confession -- and his transformative encounter with Our Lady

You will learn of how St. Teresa of Ávila returned to life after being dead for four days and the details of her stunning visits to Heaven and Hell. You will also be treated to the NDE account of Pope St. Gregory the Great and the incredible NDE of one of St. Padre Pio's priestly spiritual sons, while in battle, and how Padre Pio accompanied him.

Smith reveals why some souls remain in Purgatory for decades -- and how others choose Hell. But throughout, you will be consoled by stories of God's limitless mercy, which never ceases calling us to repentance and inviting us to share in the glories of His heavenly kingdom.

Scott L. Smith Jr. is a Louisiana author, attorney, and father of six children. With Fr. Donald Calloway, he is the co-author of the Consecration to St. Joseph for Children & Families. His other books include The Catholic ManBook, The Lord of the Rings and the Eucharist, The Theology of Sci-Fi, Pray the Rosary with Saint John Paul II, and a new translation of St. Louis de Montfort's Total Consecration to Jesus through Mary. Scott regularly contributes to his Catholic blog, www.thescottsmithblog.com, and is the co-host of the Catholic Nerds Podcast