The second edition of The Self Does Not Die, edited by Janice Holden and colleagues, remains the most comprehensive compilation to date of near-death experiences (NDEs) featuring independently verified details suggestive of psi phenomena. Drawing on decades of case collection and evaluation, the book presents a wide range of episodes where individuals reported perceptions or events that were later corroborated, many of which occurred during periods of clinical death or deep unconsciousness.

Although this is a revised and expanded edition, the committee determined that the updated material, along with the enduring significance of the original content, fully justifies renewed recognition. The work continues to be cited as a cornerstone resource in academic and clinical discussions of NDEs and survival-related research.

The book’s methodical structure—categorizing cases by type of verification and phenomenon—was praised for its clarity and utility. Reviewers highlighted its accessibility, scholarly rigor, and importance as a resource not only for parapsychologists but also for medical professionals, philosophers of mind, and spiritual counselors. 

Committee members viewed The Self Does Not Die as not merely a collection of anecdotes, but a powerful evidential base for examining consciousness beyond the brain. Its continued relevance, new material, and contribution to survival research affirm its selection for the 2025 PA Book Award.

The Parapsychological Association Book Award was established in 2015 to recognize books in the field of parapsychology that make significant contributions to science and to the cultural conversation about the implications of parapsychology. Visit the PA Book Award Page to learn more about the award and previous winners.