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The Paranormal Ranger: A Navajo Investigator's Search for the Unexplained
A Navajo Ranger’s chilling and clear-eyed memoir of his investigations into bizarre cases of the paranormal and unexplained over the course of his illustrious career serving the Navajo Nation.
Stanley Milford, Jr., was raised with the inherent belief that the supernatural regularly touches our lives. Growing up between multiple worlds and cultures, as a Native American with parents and family of both Navajo and Cherokee descent, he was raised to respect his roots with a firm upbringing in traditions from both tribes.
That would serve him well when he joined the fabled Navajo Rangers, who are equal parts police officers, archeological conservationists, and historians, responsible for overseeing the massive 27,000-square-mile Navajo Nation. When Milford first became a ranger, he handled mundane, everyday cases such as cattle inspections and domestic disputes, but that quickly gave way to utterly bizarre and shockingly frequent cases of mysterious livestock mutilations, skinwalker and cryptid sightings, unidentified aerial phenomena, and malicious hauntings.
In The Paranormal Ranger, Milford recounts all the stories from the logical, factual, and serious perspective of a law enforcement officer. Far from the tinfoil hat and conspiracy crowd, Milford’s Native American worldview and investigative training provide a chilling, realistic perspective on what logic dictates should not be possible.
Stanley Milford, Jr., was raised with the inherent belief that the supernatural regularly touches our lives. Growing up between multiple worlds and cultures, as a Native American with parents and family of both Navajo and Cherokee descent, he was raised to respect his roots with a firm upbringing in traditions from both tribes.
That would serve him well when he joined the fabled Navajo Rangers, who are equal parts police officers, archeological conservationists, and historians, responsible for overseeing the massive 27,000-square-mile Navajo Nation. When Milford first became a ranger, he handled mundane, everyday cases such as cattle inspections and domestic disputes, but that quickly gave way to utterly bizarre and shockingly frequent cases of mysterious livestock mutilations, skinwalker and cryptid sightings, unidentified aerial phenomena, and malicious hauntings.
In The Paranormal Ranger, Milford recounts all the stories from the logical, factual, and serious perspective of a law enforcement officer. Far from the tinfoil hat and conspiracy crowd, Milford’s Native American worldview and investigative training provide a chilling, realistic perspective on what logic dictates should not be possible.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
October 12, 2024
3.75 stars
Well I already had considered the possibility ghosts, spirits and alien life forms might exist, but after reading this book I’m gonna add Bigfoot to the list. Stanley Milford Jr. is a former Navajo Ranger and in this memoir he talks about his career with investigating odd cases. In the almost 30,000 square miles the Rangers cover, there have been some truly strange occurrences over the years. A fascinating read with some jaw dropping moments especially in the last few chapters.
Thank you William Morrow for sending a free advance copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
Well I already had considered the possibility ghosts, spirits and alien life forms might exist, but after reading this book I’m gonna add Bigfoot to the list. Stanley Milford Jr. is a former Navajo Ranger and in this memoir he talks about his career with investigating odd cases. In the almost 30,000 square miles the Rangers cover, there have been some truly strange occurrences over the years. A fascinating read with some jaw dropping moments especially in the last few chapters.
Thank you William Morrow for sending a free advance copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
September 5, 2024
I won this book as part of a Goodreads Giveaway and am so glad I did because the premise really intrigued me. We used to live near this area of the country and have seen and experienced strange things ourselves and heard many stories about interesting and unexplainable activity from other people from this area of the country. It was great to hear some stories that are similar to our own experiences from a reliable source like Stan Milford. I only wish there had been more stories in the book and that it had included some pictures of the area and evidence they had found that was referenced in the stories. It seems as though he just really got going with his experiences and the book ended. The Paranormal Ranger definitely left me wanting more, but I highly recommend it to anyone interested in the paranormal.
July 1, 2024
Reading about cryptids is one of guilty pleasures, but when it comes to Navajo Reservation sightings by their own police force - I don't know anyone that doubts their stories. Stanley Milford's tales of the supernatural have been included on several television shows including Unsolved Mysteries (Season 5, eepisode 3 if you want to watch it) but he is very convincing. There are many accounts of missing persons in the Southwest including hikers in the National Parks. There was a gentleman that went missing in the Pecos mountains near Santa Fe NM about 15 years ago and no one ever found him. In 2023, a young woman named Ingrid Lane from Albuquerque, was reported missing in Jemez Springs, New Mexico, before going on a hike. Authorities found her vehicle abandoned with a broken rear window near one of the trails. She has not been seen since. There is no explanation for these missing persons, and when you start talking about Indigenous women there are a large of them that have gone missing over a long period of time with no investigation. Part of the problem is jurisdiction but the main problem is pacificity and condescension because there are physical evidence of what may have happened.
May 11, 2024
I like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book.
I recognize the author, because he has been in a lot of documentaries I've watched over the years. I love seeing him pop up because he approaches it from a non-western view in terms of ghosts. His Native American and Western heritage go hand and hand in this which is why I quickly requested this.
While I really enjoy his stories, it took a while to get to them. And when you got to them, there wasn't much there. It's a short book (under 300 pages). I liked his backstory on the various paranormal things he has encountered and their connection to Native American folklore / myths.
But... there isn't much there.
I'd suggest a purchase for supporting the guy but a read for truly diehards.
I recognize the author, because he has been in a lot of documentaries I've watched over the years. I love seeing him pop up because he approaches it from a non-western view in terms of ghosts. His Native American and Western heritage go hand and hand in this which is why I quickly requested this.
While I really enjoy his stories, it took a while to get to them. And when you got to them, there wasn't much there. It's a short book (under 300 pages). I liked his backstory on the various paranormal things he has encountered and their connection to Native American folklore / myths.
But... there isn't much there.
I'd suggest a purchase for supporting the guy but a read for truly diehards.
October 31, 2024
So much paranormal investigation is based on a white and christian perspective, and it is so refreshing to read a memoir rooted in another belief system. Milford Jr. blends his personal story with a retelling of the Navajo creation story, using it to demonstrate how his experiences with the paranormal are connected to his culture. While his stories are chilling, his overall message is one of empathy and compassion. He believes that a lot of paranormal activity is the result of imbalance between worlds, a sign that we're not doing our duty to take care of each other and the world around us. As a Navajo ranger, he faced each paranormal investigation with a willingness to listen, accept, and speak truth to the experiences of the frightened and traumatized. We can't erase damage that's already been done, but we can do our best to try to move on together. Sometimes all you need is to hear someone else say "I'm here for you."
October 11, 2024
I’m not sure why I even read this.
May 13, 2024
Having seen the author on television, I was very interested in reading his book. I found him very intelligent, articulate and completely credible…both on camera and in print. His experiences made an intriguing read, and the inclusion of the history of the Navajo Rangers and the lore of his people, created a fascinating book.
June 23, 2024
Note: Thank you to NetGalley, William Morrow Publishing, and Stanley Milford Jr. for the advanced reader copy of the book. This review will also be posted on NetGalley. What follows is my unbiased review of the book.
When talking about the paranormal, people generally believe in the possibility of it or don’t. For those that do, Paranormal Ranger will provide reassurance that they aren’t crazy. For those that don’t, if the testimony by a person who was in law enforcement doesn’t convince them then nothing will.
Stanley Milford Jr. has appeared on several television shows such as Skinwalker Ranch and Unsolved Mysteries. He was a member of law enforcement on the Navajo Reservation which stretches from Arizona through New Mexico and Utah to Colorado. He retired after more than twenty years of service. Throughout his time as a Ranger, he dealt with normal law enforcement issues but became known for his thoughtful and thorough investigations into paranormal events on the Reservation.
Milford details what went into an investigation of a report of a paranormal event. With the culture steeped in stories alien to Western culture, there’s a lot more openness to the residents of the reservation to things most of the rest of us would dismiss. Although I have believed in ghosts and am open to many things paranormal for some time now, one thing I always dismissed was bigfoot sightings. It seemed ridiculous to me that a creature such as this could exist in our world with little to no evidence. However, Milford does have the evidence. In addition to casts of very large footprints that couldn’t have been made by any known creature of our world, he’s had experiences and sightings while investigating reports that frightened many members of the Native community. Milford also gives his own theories as to why there have never been any remains of a bigfoot found. I have to admit that after reading this, I find the existence of these creatures to be more plausible.
To read my full review please go to The Paranormal Ranger: A Navajo Investigator’s Search for the Unexplained by Stanley Milford Jr.
When talking about the paranormal, people generally believe in the possibility of it or don’t. For those that do, Paranormal Ranger will provide reassurance that they aren’t crazy. For those that don’t, if the testimony by a person who was in law enforcement doesn’t convince them then nothing will.
Stanley Milford Jr. has appeared on several television shows such as Skinwalker Ranch and Unsolved Mysteries. He was a member of law enforcement on the Navajo Reservation which stretches from Arizona through New Mexico and Utah to Colorado. He retired after more than twenty years of service. Throughout his time as a Ranger, he dealt with normal law enforcement issues but became known for his thoughtful and thorough investigations into paranormal events on the Reservation.
Milford details what went into an investigation of a report of a paranormal event. With the culture steeped in stories alien to Western culture, there’s a lot more openness to the residents of the reservation to things most of the rest of us would dismiss. Although I have believed in ghosts and am open to many things paranormal for some time now, one thing I always dismissed was bigfoot sightings. It seemed ridiculous to me that a creature such as this could exist in our world with little to no evidence. However, Milford does have the evidence. In addition to casts of very large footprints that couldn’t have been made by any known creature of our world, he’s had experiences and sightings while investigating reports that frightened many members of the Native community. Milford also gives his own theories as to why there have never been any remains of a bigfoot found. I have to admit that after reading this, I find the existence of these creatures to be more plausible.
To read my full review please go to The Paranormal Ranger: A Navajo Investigator’s Search for the Unexplained by Stanley Milford Jr.
July 22, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for an eARC of The Paranormal Ranger by Stanley Milford Jr.
I was so excited to see that Stanley Milford Jr. was coming out with a book about his experience with the Navajo Rangers and the supernatural world. My first experience with his work was through Beyond Skinwalker Ranch and it was so curious to know that not only does the Navajo have their own police force, they have Rangers who work specifically with supernatural cases. It was fun to read his stories and experiences, but also how he incorporated the Navajo creation story, as it really gave a wonderful insight with the chapters of his time as a Ranger. For me, it blended nicely. The big thing for me is that Stanley always treated his cases seriously and followed through, making sure that those involved were informed and knew that he wasn't going to just brush it off (not take things seriously). Especially because the supernatural is heavily imbodied in many cultures that those who weren't raise in that culture wouldn't understand or just assume the person is crazy etc., Stanley went above and beyond during is 20 year tenure and the evidence he gathered blows my mind. Honestly, I wish he had a podcast as I would 10/10 listen to it.
I was so excited to see that Stanley Milford Jr. was coming out with a book about his experience with the Navajo Rangers and the supernatural world. My first experience with his work was through Beyond Skinwalker Ranch and it was so curious to know that not only does the Navajo have their own police force, they have Rangers who work specifically with supernatural cases. It was fun to read his stories and experiences, but also how he incorporated the Navajo creation story, as it really gave a wonderful insight with the chapters of his time as a Ranger. For me, it blended nicely. The big thing for me is that Stanley always treated his cases seriously and followed through, making sure that those involved were informed and knew that he wasn't going to just brush it off (not take things seriously). Especially because the supernatural is heavily imbodied in many cultures that those who weren't raise in that culture wouldn't understand or just assume the person is crazy etc., Stanley went above and beyond during is 20 year tenure and the evidence he gathered blows my mind. Honestly, I wish he had a podcast as I would 10/10 listen to it.
October 6, 2024
The Paranormal Ranger by Stanley Milford Junior is an interesting biography about his life living between the traditions of the Navajo Indians and western culture him becoming a Ranger and all that entailed and ultimately how he and his partner were picked to be the paranormal rangers. My favorite part of the book besides his actual stories of arresting and or searching for criminals/crypttoids, we’re the Native American origin stories of how they believe the world was invented to how men and women learned they really did need each other I really enjoyed those stories I think as much as I did the others. Mr. Milford has such a comfortable writing style and at one point I really felt as if mosquitoes were going to start biting me due to the way he described the misery he was in on his first SWAT mission. I think Mr. Milford’s respect for others really comes through in the narrative he seems like such an intelligent and kind person that anyone would be proud to know and I am so glad I read this book and know that such a great man exist. From growing up to explaining how things are done on the reservation the stories are interesting in the book isn’t long but OMG it could’ve been longer. I am not a fan of biographies because I feel like people too often like to pat their own self on the back and use the opportunity to tell the world how great they are but in this case you can read for yourself the humility and honor and even a little self deprecation that made a few LOL moments really shows what a great person the Ranger is. From Windegos to big foot UFOs in even a human shaped black void he has experienced it all and has a very interesting way of telling the stories I definitely recommend this book it was awesome I loved it and read it all in almost one sitting the only reason I put the book down is because I kept falling asleep I had been reading so long. Lol! #NetGalley,#StanleyMilfordJunior, #TheParaNormalRanger,#William Morrow,
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November 12, 2024I think I saw Milford on Unsolved Mysteries talking about Bigfoot and skinwalkers, so when I saw this book I wanted to know more. The first part is a deep dive in his life. The next part is about the various cases he investigated as part of a "real life X Files."
Say what you will about aliens, crytpids, and ghosts, but Milford and I can definitely agree on the fact that there are things in this world that none of us can explain.
Say what you will about aliens, crytpids, and ghosts, but Milford and I can definitely agree on the fact that there are things in this world that none of us can explain.
October 6, 2024
This was so incredibly good. I had seen this author on some of my favorite paranormal shows and documentaries, and watching the Paranormal Rangers episode of Unsolved Mysteries had me jumping on Google to learn more. So when I learned about this book, I knew I had to read it. This was a great blend of personal history, paranormal and Navajo culture. What an interesting life and pathway to live out the dream of becoming the real X-Files. I could not put this down and really enjoyed learning about the Navajo creation story and how it shapes perceptions and reactions to paranormal occurrences. The cases were compelling, and I enjoyed the author's hypotheses on how everything could be connected. These investigations were conducted with the aim of validating, informing and healing those who were affected by their experiences. I would love if more investigators took this approach. I really hope this author writes more books, as this was such a good read. Highly recommend.
November 8, 2024
“We inherited a paranormal world from our ancestors, but we do not have their knowledge or tools to help us deal with it. Those who painted the pictographs on the red rocks of Navajoland knew things we do not know. We think of ourselves as so advanced, but there are situations our ancestors could have handled that we cannot because we have allowed their knowledge to be lost. And we have allowed our lives and societies to become radically unbalanced.”
This was a book I found fascinating, especially as the author put various paranormal/supernatural events that he witnessed in the context of Navajo culture. It made me think long and hard about the assumptions we make outside of our own culture/experience that allow us to dismiss what others hold sacred or taboo. Maybe we need to do more listening and less "my perspective 'splaining".
This was a book I found fascinating, especially as the author put various paranormal/supernatural events that he witnessed in the context of Navajo culture. It made me think long and hard about the assumptions we make outside of our own culture/experience that allow us to dismiss what others hold sacred or taboo. Maybe we need to do more listening and less "my perspective 'splaining".
November 5, 2024
3.5 stars. I wish Milford had a coauthor to help shape the narrative a little more. I found the writing slightly repetitive and not as easy to get lost in as I was hoping. But overall very interesting and I liked Milford’s view on the paranormal crossover with our world.
November 7, 2024
This is great. Its interesting to hear first hand paranormal accounts and from the view of a Navajo ranger.
November 20, 2024
Very interesting, but I'd like to see some of the evidence he discusses.
November 13, 2024
Enjoyed reading..I know all what can happen here on our rez but don't say anything about it..too many skeptics that like to deny or put down. I'm glad it was written and made public.
This was a nice memoir of some of Mr. Milford's investigations. 🧐
This was a nice memoir of some of Mr. Milford's investigations. 🧐
August 9, 2024
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher William Morrow for an advance copy of this book that is both a true story about being a police officer, a paranormal investigator and the very varied and interesting life this officer lead patrolling the 25,000 square miles that make up the Navajo Nation.
One of my favorite shows has always been The X-Files. I grew up reading just about anything I could find on the supernatural, collecting Fate magazines from book sales, rooting through the odd boxes deep in bookstores loaded with stories about creatures, UFO, and strange hauntings. The X-Files to my younger self, seemed like something that had to be real. There is no way this many people could be wrong about those things in the night. Someone has to be investigating this. Someone has to be looking for the truth. As I got older, I came to the realization that law enforcement is bureaucracy and well no one wants to work on something that can't get a rise in the budget next year. Traffic stops make more money that spending time looking for Bigfoot. Or lights in the sky. Just say they are kooks and move on, no matter how strong the evidence, nor how traumatic the experience. Stanley Milford, Jr. was a police officer who actually had a mandate; investigate these strange calls, lights in the sky, animals dying like one would handle any other case. Even if the cases took place in the Navajo Nation, measuring about 25,000 square miles. The Paranormal Ranger: A Navajo Investigator's Search for the Unexplained is a solid true crime police book, a cultural study of growing up as a Native American, and a look at many of the odd things Milford saw, how they touched him and even in some way haunt him still.
Stanley Milford, Jr. spent his childhood in rural Oklahoma with his mother's family, and in the Navajo Nation with his father's family. Milford always had an interest in police shows, and when the opportunity arose for a job with the Navajo Rangers, Milford went for it. The Rangers are unique in that they patrol an area about the size of West Virginia, in numbers that lower than the police in my town. Milford moved up quickly, becoming SWAT certified, a firearms instructor, and more importantly part of the Special Projects Unit, which involved fugitive searches, dignitary protection, antiquities guarding, and a slightly odd mandate. To investigate paranormal activities in the Nation. Milford had experiences in the past, which he could not explain and was soon investigating Bigfoot sightings. UFO's and strange hauntings. Unlike many who would label the people who reported this things in as crazy, Milford and his partner would treat everything as real. Pictures of prints, tracking, finding DNA. More importantly Milford would listen, sometimes learning, sometimes just being a sympathetic ear. Soon Milord would be involved in a case, that still haunts him to this day.
Not the book I expected, and I really enjoyed it for that reason. I thought this was going to be a book just about the supernatural on indigenous land, but this is much more than that. This is a book about living in different worlds, traveling among them and what one sees while doing so. This is a really interesting police story, a story about a person growing up between two cultures, and finding himself, and of course the weird things we hear, but don't know. Milford really comes across as a good man, a believer, but not a believer who will browbeat one until they agree. As a cop Milford has seen some things, dangerous, different, scary, and sometimes all too human.
A really good book, for police fans, Native American cultural history, and of course paranormal fans. All three are covered equally, and one learns quite a bit in this exciting, interesting book, that asks a few questions, and leaves the answers up to the reader. I look forward to more books by the Paranormal Ranger.
One of my favorite shows has always been The X-Files. I grew up reading just about anything I could find on the supernatural, collecting Fate magazines from book sales, rooting through the odd boxes deep in bookstores loaded with stories about creatures, UFO, and strange hauntings. The X-Files to my younger self, seemed like something that had to be real. There is no way this many people could be wrong about those things in the night. Someone has to be investigating this. Someone has to be looking for the truth. As I got older, I came to the realization that law enforcement is bureaucracy and well no one wants to work on something that can't get a rise in the budget next year. Traffic stops make more money that spending time looking for Bigfoot. Or lights in the sky. Just say they are kooks and move on, no matter how strong the evidence, nor how traumatic the experience. Stanley Milford, Jr. was a police officer who actually had a mandate; investigate these strange calls, lights in the sky, animals dying like one would handle any other case. Even if the cases took place in the Navajo Nation, measuring about 25,000 square miles. The Paranormal Ranger: A Navajo Investigator's Search for the Unexplained is a solid true crime police book, a cultural study of growing up as a Native American, and a look at many of the odd things Milford saw, how they touched him and even in some way haunt him still.
Stanley Milford, Jr. spent his childhood in rural Oklahoma with his mother's family, and in the Navajo Nation with his father's family. Milford always had an interest in police shows, and when the opportunity arose for a job with the Navajo Rangers, Milford went for it. The Rangers are unique in that they patrol an area about the size of West Virginia, in numbers that lower than the police in my town. Milford moved up quickly, becoming SWAT certified, a firearms instructor, and more importantly part of the Special Projects Unit, which involved fugitive searches, dignitary protection, antiquities guarding, and a slightly odd mandate. To investigate paranormal activities in the Nation. Milford had experiences in the past, which he could not explain and was soon investigating Bigfoot sightings. UFO's and strange hauntings. Unlike many who would label the people who reported this things in as crazy, Milford and his partner would treat everything as real. Pictures of prints, tracking, finding DNA. More importantly Milford would listen, sometimes learning, sometimes just being a sympathetic ear. Soon Milord would be involved in a case, that still haunts him to this day.
Not the book I expected, and I really enjoyed it for that reason. I thought this was going to be a book just about the supernatural on indigenous land, but this is much more than that. This is a book about living in different worlds, traveling among them and what one sees while doing so. This is a really interesting police story, a story about a person growing up between two cultures, and finding himself, and of course the weird things we hear, but don't know. Milford really comes across as a good man, a believer, but not a believer who will browbeat one until they agree. As a cop Milford has seen some things, dangerous, different, scary, and sometimes all too human.
A really good book, for police fans, Native American cultural history, and of course paranormal fans. All three are covered equally, and one learns quite a bit in this exciting, interesting book, that asks a few questions, and leaves the answers up to the reader. I look forward to more books by the Paranormal Ranger.
November 20, 2024
Do you believe in the paranormal such as aliens, bigfoot, ghosts, other supernatural beings? I am always curious.
Stanley Milford Jr. grew up in multiple worlds with a Navajo father and Cherokee mother. He learned native culture and traditions but also grew up in the white world. As an adult, he became a Navajo Ranger serving the very large (27,000 square miles) area of the Navajo Nation. Along the way he had many encounters with the paranormal.
My thoughts on this book:
• I really liked the Navajo creation story and myths that were interspersed between each chapter.
• There were great pictures of Stanley Milford Jr. throughout his life as well as sketches of paranormal creatures.
• I found this book to be very interesting. Milford takes a police perspective to each investigation. He can determine some are hoaxes, while others have no apparent explanation. He had an interesting theory that there could be interdimensional travel happening to explain strange appearances.
• It was interesting that one witness was able to get trail cam footage of a bigfoot and that the DNA analysis of the hair fibers came back inconclusive for the type of mammal.
• Milford had a LOT of area to cover with not many rangers.
• The book had an interesting discussion about how perhaps some areas see more paranormal activity than others, such as Gettysburg.
• Milford was in a few documentaries on paranormal activity and now I want to see them. He was on Unsolved Mysteries and Beyond Skinwalker Ranch just to name a couple.
• This book was a good mix of memoir, native mythology, and paranormal investigations.
• It was a quick read with a good index.
• It was nice that Milford was able to listen to and help those who “regular” police would typically dismiss with their paranormal experiences.
Favorite Quotes:
“Overall, I found that treating people like fellow human beings instead of being badge-heavy always resulted in more compliance. I was a member of the community, and that’s how I conducted myself on the job.”
“That’s what was different about paranormal cases as opposed to my usual, everyday ones. These cases made me wonder What If? They sent my mind whirring in all directions.”
Overall, The Paranormal Ranger was a very interesting memoir of a Navajo Ranger and his investigations into paranormal activity.
Book Source: Review copy from William Morrow Books. Thank-you! Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2024...
Stanley Milford Jr. grew up in multiple worlds with a Navajo father and Cherokee mother. He learned native culture and traditions but also grew up in the white world. As an adult, he became a Navajo Ranger serving the very large (27,000 square miles) area of the Navajo Nation. Along the way he had many encounters with the paranormal.
My thoughts on this book:
• I really liked the Navajo creation story and myths that were interspersed between each chapter.
• There were great pictures of Stanley Milford Jr. throughout his life as well as sketches of paranormal creatures.
• I found this book to be very interesting. Milford takes a police perspective to each investigation. He can determine some are hoaxes, while others have no apparent explanation. He had an interesting theory that there could be interdimensional travel happening to explain strange appearances.
• It was interesting that one witness was able to get trail cam footage of a bigfoot and that the DNA analysis of the hair fibers came back inconclusive for the type of mammal.
• Milford had a LOT of area to cover with not many rangers.
• The book had an interesting discussion about how perhaps some areas see more paranormal activity than others, such as Gettysburg.
• Milford was in a few documentaries on paranormal activity and now I want to see them. He was on Unsolved Mysteries and Beyond Skinwalker Ranch just to name a couple.
• This book was a good mix of memoir, native mythology, and paranormal investigations.
• It was a quick read with a good index.
• It was nice that Milford was able to listen to and help those who “regular” police would typically dismiss with their paranormal experiences.
Favorite Quotes:
“Overall, I found that treating people like fellow human beings instead of being badge-heavy always resulted in more compliance. I was a member of the community, and that’s how I conducted myself on the job.”
“That’s what was different about paranormal cases as opposed to my usual, everyday ones. These cases made me wonder What If? They sent my mind whirring in all directions.”
Overall, The Paranormal Ranger was a very interesting memoir of a Navajo Ranger and his investigations into paranormal activity.
Book Source: Review copy from William Morrow Books. Thank-you! Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2024...
October 14, 2024
"There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy" - Hamlet, Act I, Scene V
A fascinating blend of memoir, cultural history of the Navajo, and exploration of the otherworldly and paranormal. Growing up Stanley Milford Jr, half Navajo and part Cherokee, split his time between his parents in Oklahoma and the Navajo Nation. When he grew up he became a ranger on the Navajo Nation, dealing with all kinds of calls. He was a participant in the Four Corners Manhunt in 1997 and dealt with the normal calls that law enforcement officers face. In addition to those, the rangers received calls of a different nature, involving the supernatural and things related to the beliefs of the traditional Navajo. Many of the people who made these reports were scared, and felt ignored and unheard by other law enforcement, so Milford and his partner became to go-to investigators for these calls. These included witchcraft, skinwalkers, bigfoot, UFO sightings, and hauntings. Mr. Milford discusses several of his cases over the decades, including a sampling of the majority of his cases which were what he called "Scooby-Doo cases." Each section begins with a sampling of the Navajo legends and creation stories.
I thought this would be an entertaining and lighthearted read for spooky season. It turned out to be a thought-provoking journey through a land and culture that is steeped in mysticism and the unknown. He approached his cases with the goal of listening to the people and finding as much information as he could, even if he couldn't find an answer or explanation. He used standard investigation and scientific techniques, which makes it much more plausible when he can't find a standard explanation. Mythologies are used to explain the world that we live in. Cultures and societies around the world often have similar stories and characters, perhaps from similar visions and experiences. To think that we know, understand, and can explain all things in our world and existence is unreal and full of hubris. The possibilities of what lies beyond our perception and grasp are endless, and we must be open to the unknown.
A fascinating blend of memoir, cultural history of the Navajo, and exploration of the otherworldly and paranormal. Growing up Stanley Milford Jr, half Navajo and part Cherokee, split his time between his parents in Oklahoma and the Navajo Nation. When he grew up he became a ranger on the Navajo Nation, dealing with all kinds of calls. He was a participant in the Four Corners Manhunt in 1997 and dealt with the normal calls that law enforcement officers face. In addition to those, the rangers received calls of a different nature, involving the supernatural and things related to the beliefs of the traditional Navajo. Many of the people who made these reports were scared, and felt ignored and unheard by other law enforcement, so Milford and his partner became to go-to investigators for these calls. These included witchcraft, skinwalkers, bigfoot, UFO sightings, and hauntings. Mr. Milford discusses several of his cases over the decades, including a sampling of the majority of his cases which were what he called "Scooby-Doo cases." Each section begins with a sampling of the Navajo legends and creation stories.
I thought this would be an entertaining and lighthearted read for spooky season. It turned out to be a thought-provoking journey through a land and culture that is steeped in mysticism and the unknown. He approached his cases with the goal of listening to the people and finding as much information as he could, even if he couldn't find an answer or explanation. He used standard investigation and scientific techniques, which makes it much more plausible when he can't find a standard explanation. Mythologies are used to explain the world that we live in. Cultures and societies around the world often have similar stories and characters, perhaps from similar visions and experiences. To think that we know, understand, and can explain all things in our world and existence is unreal and full of hubris. The possibilities of what lies beyond our perception and grasp are endless, and we must be open to the unknown.
September 26, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
The Paranormal Ranger: A Navajo Investigator’s Search for the Unexplained by Stanley Milford, Jr. is a fascinating memoir that offers a unique blend of true crime, cultural exploration, and supernatural investigation. As a Navajo Ranger, Milford’s career was anything but ordinary, and this book provides a riveting account of his encounters with the unexplained.
Milford’s narrative is deeply rooted in his heritage, drawing on his upbringing with Navajo and Cherokee traditions. This cultural backdrop adds a rich layer to his stories, making them reflections on the intersection of modern law enforcement and ancient beliefs. His experiences range from investigating mysterious livestock mutilations to sightings of skinwalkers and UFOs, each case more intriguing than the last.
What sets this memoir apart is Milford’s approach to these phenomena. As a trained law enforcement officer, he brings a logical and methodical perspective to his investigations, yet he remains open to the mysteries that defy conventional explanation. This balance between skepticism and belief makes for a compelling read, as Milford navigates the thin line between the known and the unknown.
This book is a testament to Milford’s storytelling prowess. His descriptions are vivid, bringing the vast landscapes of the Navajo Nation to life and immersing readers in the eerie, often unsettling atmosphere of his investigations. The pacing is well-crafted, with each chapter building suspense and curiosity about the next bizarre encounter.
The Paranormal Ranger is an exploration of how cultural heritage and personal experience shape our understanding of the world. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in the paranormal, true crime, or Native American culture. Milford’s journey is both enlightening and entertaining, offering a rare glimpse into a world where the supernatural is part of everyday life.
The Paranormal Ranger: A Navajo Investigator’s Search for the Unexplained by Stanley Milford, Jr. is a fascinating memoir that offers a unique blend of true crime, cultural exploration, and supernatural investigation. As a Navajo Ranger, Milford’s career was anything but ordinary, and this book provides a riveting account of his encounters with the unexplained.
Milford’s narrative is deeply rooted in his heritage, drawing on his upbringing with Navajo and Cherokee traditions. This cultural backdrop adds a rich layer to his stories, making them reflections on the intersection of modern law enforcement and ancient beliefs. His experiences range from investigating mysterious livestock mutilations to sightings of skinwalkers and UFOs, each case more intriguing than the last.
What sets this memoir apart is Milford’s approach to these phenomena. As a trained law enforcement officer, he brings a logical and methodical perspective to his investigations, yet he remains open to the mysteries that defy conventional explanation. This balance between skepticism and belief makes for a compelling read, as Milford navigates the thin line between the known and the unknown.
This book is a testament to Milford’s storytelling prowess. His descriptions are vivid, bringing the vast landscapes of the Navajo Nation to life and immersing readers in the eerie, often unsettling atmosphere of his investigations. The pacing is well-crafted, with each chapter building suspense and curiosity about the next bizarre encounter.
The Paranormal Ranger is an exploration of how cultural heritage and personal experience shape our understanding of the world. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in the paranormal, true crime, or Native American culture. Milford’s journey is both enlightening and entertaining, offering a rare glimpse into a world where the supernatural is part of everyday life.
August 10, 2024
Stanley Milford Jr.'s mixed heritage upbringing served him well in his duties as a Navajo Ranger. He grew up in a white world but spent summers within the Navajo Nation giving him a foot in both cultures. This early part of the memoir is focused on his childhood, family and his early years on the force and most of it seems pretty tame but the second part is where he and his partner are part of a special unit that oversees unusual events not just criminal activity. It is here that his quiet nature and early training pay off. The number one goal for this unit was to document events but also provide a calm and understanding approach to collecting the information. They never showed disbelief at any of the claims, never dismissed any "crazy" ideas and made the victim feel listened to. It soon became apparent that there was something to these sightings as Stanley and his partner began witnessing unexplained occurrences themselves. Each chapter begins with a Navajo creation story that works into some of the strange occurrences. Instead of horror they were in awe especially in the later chapters of Bigfoot sightings. While the author does not try to explain why these sightings happened he does suggest that there must be more out there that we don't fully understand. The open and rough terrain of the vast Navajo Nation seems like the perfect location for the unexplained but there is data that suggests these things happen worldwide. Makes for interesting reading for the curious and openminded reader. My thanks to the publisher for the advance copy.
November 4, 2024
The story of a Navajo Ranger with real paranormal experience – or so he says.
The Paranormal Ranger by Stanley Milford Jr. tells the story of Mr. Milford while he was a Navajo Ranger from 1997 through 2017. During this time, he and his partner were assigned to investigate reports of paranormal activity from residents of the Navajo Nation in the southwest as well as their regular law enforcement duties. This included reports of skinwalkers (shapeshifters), Bigfoot, extraterrestrial aliens, witches and ghosts. Mr. Milford claims to have had personal encounters with each of these paranormals beginning with a skin walker chasing him as a teenager.
During his career Mr. Milford conducted investigations of reported sightings and encounters with these creatures using the investigative techniques he was trained in as a law enforcement officer. These investigations caused Mr. Milford to become a believer in their existence theorizing that they were all connected and originated in other dimensions. He also theorized that the frequency of paranormal activity in the Navajo Nation was the result of a powerful ley line running through the land.
There is no doubt that Mr. Milford truly believes these creatures exist. His documentation of each of his investigations seems to support his thesis; however, while this story is a good read, I am not convinced that he has actually proven his thesis.
The Paranormal Ranger by Stanley Milford Jr. tells the story of Mr. Milford while he was a Navajo Ranger from 1997 through 2017. During this time, he and his partner were assigned to investigate reports of paranormal activity from residents of the Navajo Nation in the southwest as well as their regular law enforcement duties. This included reports of skinwalkers (shapeshifters), Bigfoot, extraterrestrial aliens, witches and ghosts. Mr. Milford claims to have had personal encounters with each of these paranormals beginning with a skin walker chasing him as a teenager.
During his career Mr. Milford conducted investigations of reported sightings and encounters with these creatures using the investigative techniques he was trained in as a law enforcement officer. These investigations caused Mr. Milford to become a believer in their existence theorizing that they were all connected and originated in other dimensions. He also theorized that the frequency of paranormal activity in the Navajo Nation was the result of a powerful ley line running through the land.
There is no doubt that Mr. Milford truly believes these creatures exist. His documentation of each of his investigations seems to support his thesis; however, while this story is a good read, I am not convinced that he has actually proven his thesis.
November 7, 2024
Whether you're a true believer or a complete skeptic, you cannot help but appreciate Milford's honesty and commitment in this memoir. You can easily tell that Milford believes in the paranormal, and that he is very passionate about his investigative and police work on the Navajo Reservation. His concern for people and for the preservation of his culture's practices and beliefs is apparent throughout this narrative.
There are some intriguing stories from his Navajo Ranger fieldwork contained in this slim tome. From Bigfoot to UFO to skinwalker, many cryptic stalwarts make appearances. Milford's procedural, just-the-facts style lends extra credence to his accounts. It also makes parts of this memoir fairly dry and a bit repetitive. Also, having watched the Unsolved Mysteries episode in the newer releases focused on some of his more famous Ranger cases, I didn't always feel like I was getting anything new at times.
However, the integration of Navajo myths and beliefs and origin stories is well done and welcome. They offer a connection and explanation for some of these occurrences that you don't always get with paranormal investigative publications.
All in all, an interesting, albeit dry, entry into paranormal happenings that I am happy I read to conclude my spooky reading season.
There are some intriguing stories from his Navajo Ranger fieldwork contained in this slim tome. From Bigfoot to UFO to skinwalker, many cryptic stalwarts make appearances. Milford's procedural, just-the-facts style lends extra credence to his accounts. It also makes parts of this memoir fairly dry and a bit repetitive. Also, having watched the Unsolved Mysteries episode in the newer releases focused on some of his more famous Ranger cases, I didn't always feel like I was getting anything new at times.
However, the integration of Navajo myths and beliefs and origin stories is well done and welcome. They offer a connection and explanation for some of these occurrences that you don't always get with paranormal investigative publications.
All in all, an interesting, albeit dry, entry into paranormal happenings that I am happy I read to conclude my spooky reading season.
September 6, 2024
The Paranormal Ranger takes readers deep into the heart of the Navajo Nation, where the line between the natural and supernatural often blurs. As a Navajo Ranger, Milford spent years investigating eerie, unexplained phenomena that would make even the bravest shudder. His memoir is packed with chilling accounts that defy logical explanation.
Raised with Navajo and Cherokee traditions, Milford was taught to respect the supernatural as a real and present force. His cultural background, combined with his rigorous training, brings a unique, grounded approach to stories that could easily veer into the unbelievable. This isn’t a book for those looking for outlandish tales or wild conspiracies; instead, it’s a sober, methodical exploration of the unexplainable from someone who has seen it all and still managed to keep his feet on the ground.
Each case is told with a careful, no-nonsense style that makes the reader feel the cold desert wind at their back and the hairs rise on their neck. Milford’s memoir is a must-read for anyone who loves stories that creep under your skin and make you question what’s lurking in the shadows.
Many thanks to Edelweiss and William Morrow for the opportunity to read and review The Paranormal Ranger prior to publication.
Raised with Navajo and Cherokee traditions, Milford was taught to respect the supernatural as a real and present force. His cultural background, combined with his rigorous training, brings a unique, grounded approach to stories that could easily veer into the unbelievable. This isn’t a book for those looking for outlandish tales or wild conspiracies; instead, it’s a sober, methodical exploration of the unexplainable from someone who has seen it all and still managed to keep his feet on the ground.
Each case is told with a careful, no-nonsense style that makes the reader feel the cold desert wind at their back and the hairs rise on their neck. Milford’s memoir is a must-read for anyone who loves stories that creep under your skin and make you question what’s lurking in the shadows.
Many thanks to Edelweiss and William Morrow for the opportunity to read and review The Paranormal Ranger prior to publication.
October 15, 2024
Amazing and important
I've read many, many accounts of paranormal activity, but this one is easily in my top five. Told with grace and sincerity, this Navajo Ranger recounts stunning stories of peoples' encounters with the unfathomable--including his own. Bigfoot, greys, skinwalkers, UFOs, and poltergeists walk through this memoir in impressive detail, which includes even a massively haunted office building. His attitude toward the phenomena is one of healthy skepticism, openness, curiosity, and courage. Above all, his aim is to provide support to the traumatized witnesses--to lend heart and ear to their experiences. He is equally open to sharing his own amazing encounters--with a skinwalker, grey, UFO, poltergeist, and Bigfoot. To his credit, he does not minimize the traumatic effect of these experiences, even on someone with his training and background. I also appreciated the traditional Native spirituality he brings to his investigations as well as his search for an overall theory to explain the paranormal. This is a book not to be missed.
I've read many, many accounts of paranormal activity, but this one is easily in my top five. Told with grace and sincerity, this Navajo Ranger recounts stunning stories of peoples' encounters with the unfathomable--including his own. Bigfoot, greys, skinwalkers, UFOs, and poltergeists walk through this memoir in impressive detail, which includes even a massively haunted office building. His attitude toward the phenomena is one of healthy skepticism, openness, curiosity, and courage. Above all, his aim is to provide support to the traumatized witnesses--to lend heart and ear to their experiences. He is equally open to sharing his own amazing encounters--with a skinwalker, grey, UFO, poltergeist, and Bigfoot. To his credit, he does not minimize the traumatic effect of these experiences, even on someone with his training and background. I also appreciated the traditional Native spirituality he brings to his investigations as well as his search for an overall theory to explain the paranormal. This is a book not to be missed.
November 7, 2024
I loved this! All very believable events and I especially liked the Navajo myths that were added because I'd never read a version like that before. I was always hoping that either Jonathan Dover or Stanley Milford jr would someday write a book, so I was very excited to read this. A couple of the cases were familiar, on account of the brilliant Unexplained Mysteries episode, but it was still great to read about them in more detail.
Educated, intelligent, good people investigating high strangeness, without the usual chaos and stupidity of screaming, running around with crucifixes and yelling that everything is demonic.
It's books like this that help the entire subject become more rooted in fact and taken more seriously. Two men, with a foot in two worlds. Reality is far stranger than we know, and if the majority of humanity could stop being so self absorbed, we might make real progress towards answers.
Loved this.
Educated, intelligent, good people investigating high strangeness, without the usual chaos and stupidity of screaming, running around with crucifixes and yelling that everything is demonic.
It's books like this that help the entire subject become more rooted in fact and taken more seriously. Two men, with a foot in two worlds. Reality is far stranger than we know, and if the majority of humanity could stop being so self absorbed, we might make real progress towards answers.
Loved this.
October 16, 2024
After I read that The Paranormal Ranger, by Stanley Milford, Jr. was a NYT pick for one of the 22 best nonfiction books to read for fall, I was intrigued. Milford, who is descended from Cherokee and Navajo parents, serves in the Navajo Rangers, a law enforcement arm of the Navajo Nation. Raised on Native American stories of witchcraft, shapeshifters and the origins of mankind, he shares fascinating insights into the beliefs and culture of these indigenous people. His book is short--I wished it was longer--but he tells some chilling tales of sighting skinwalkers and Bigfoot (or maybe more than one Bigfoot), investigating hauntings, UFOs, and more. He sounds like the kind of loyal, brave, open-minded, caring man that anyone would want on their law enforcement team. I recommend his book and send thanks to him for his service. Check it out for Halloween!
October 17, 2024
THE PARANORMAL RANGER is a quick read that I enjoyed, though it slightly missed the mark for me.
The first half of the book is a combination of Native American history and the author’s childhood and early adult life. While interesting, most of this content had nothing to do with the “bizarre cases of the paranormal and unexplained” referred to in the synopsis.
The second half of the book is where the author talks about his time working as a paranormal ranger for the Navajo Nation. These cases were fascinating, but he only discussed a few. I felt like this was just a tease, like we’d only begun to delve into his experiences as an investigator when the book ended.
I was fascinated by the connections between the unexplained/paranormal activity and the Navajo folklore, but I wanted more substance.
*I received a free copy from William Morrow.*
The first half of the book is a combination of Native American history and the author’s childhood and early adult life. While interesting, most of this content had nothing to do with the “bizarre cases of the paranormal and unexplained” referred to in the synopsis.
The second half of the book is where the author talks about his time working as a paranormal ranger for the Navajo Nation. These cases were fascinating, but he only discussed a few. I felt like this was just a tease, like we’d only begun to delve into his experiences as an investigator when the book ended.
I was fascinated by the connections between the unexplained/paranormal activity and the Navajo folklore, but I wanted more substance.
*I received a free copy from William Morrow.*
October 3, 2024
An interesting and educational look at the experiences of a Navajo Ranger, a member of the native law enforcement and investigative community who gives clear and concise information on his experiences. Stanley Milford Jr is a familiar face as he has appeared on many television shows where the topic of paranormal happenings is reviewed and investigated. There are so many events that happen with little explanation that I believe most people reserve an opinion that leaves open so many possibilities. Milford tells of his experiences without sensationalism, leaving little doubt of his beliefs. I found the book fascinating but could have enjoyed a few more chapters. Maybe a second book is coming?
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