The idea that someone is possessed by a demonic force is appealing — to a certain degree. Obviously no one wants to be overcome by a demon, but even for those of us who do not believe in demonic possession, the idea remains enticing: It posits that whatever is wrong with the person in the throes of paranormal occupancy can be solved.

If one is possessed by a malevolent spirit, then the that spirit can be removed. Evil can be expelled. That’s what exorcisms are for.

There is something inherently superstitious about these beliefs, of course, but the magic exists for a reason: Exorcisms are for the hopeful — for those who believe a return to normalcy is possible in the first place.

Doubt and pain

In “The Possession of Alba Díaz” by Isabel Cañas (Scribner, $29), the possession is not metap

See Full Page