The Haunted: One Family's Nightmare

Journalist Curran here reports on a case of demonic possession in a 92-year-old duplex in West Pittston, Penn., home of Jack and Janet Smurl, their four daughters and Jack's parents. After demonic attacks on the family became more frequent, paranormal researchers Ed and Lorraine Warren investigated in 1985. At their request, Catholic Bishop Robert McKenna performed three exorcisms, unsuccessfully. The Smurls have allegedly endured myriad tormentsa strangling attempt, spectral appearances, sexual molestation by a demon, a levitationthat persist. It is hard to doubt the witnesses to these phenomena. The narrative is based on the testimony of 28 people who purportedly experienced supernatural events linked to the haunting. Oddly, the Smurl family continues to live in the house. First serial to Redbook; Troll Book Club and Preferred Choice Book Club selections; film rights sold to Lorimar; author tour. (April)