The Ring of Chairs - The Story of a Spirit trained Medium. by Janet Cyford a traditional British Spiritualist Medium Differing from most books listed as a medium's story, this book is not an attempt to amply the person but rather weaves a beautiful teaching of Spirit and Spiritualism and the British Medium's understanding. From the very beginning, the author clearly points to the fact that while thinking she must set straight the misinformation being promulgated by the media, she found the whole concept to have been Spirit directed. We are made aware that the world of Spirit is not some far distant land but simply a different rate of vibration - a different frequency than the physical world we know. We enter the first Chapter to meet the Family Circle and immediately are made conscious of Spirit communication through a trance setting during the first year of World War II. It was this humble beginning that resulted in many family members developing their gifts. The author clearly explains Mediumship and the Medium. She makes it specific that a well-trained medium consciously cooperates with Spirit and the quality of their gift depends upon their ability to achieve, perfect and maintain attunement. These gifts are governed by Spiritual Laws. The purpose of this communication being to prove, or to give evidence of our Soul's survival beyond death. One method of mediumship is the deep trance state. Without room for question, it is explained that today's "channeling" which seems more relevant to the ego of the discarnate or incarnate personalities in no way relates to mediumship and communication with the identifiable Spirit entities. The Ring of Chairs is a beautiful setting for the group developing mediumship. The home circle provides a safe environment for aspiring mediums. An excellent outline is offered for forming a development group/circle. Specific data is given in regard to the most important component which is the group leader. It is also important that the aims and intention be set out when beginning a circle. Along with this concept, is an understanding of the Spiritual Self within each of us, which is aptly expressed. While reaching out to Spirit, we must understand that in no way will Spirit ever deny you the right of your own free will. The book concludes with segments on Prayer, Absent Healing, Spiritual Healing, Clairvoyance, Psychometry, Extended Sensory perception, The Aura Energy Field. and of utmost importance "The Student." A concluding thought of the author is "It is the released consciousness that transcends the confines of the rational, critical, everyday mind."