|
Bookviews Book Reviews |
06-25-2010 |
Beltane:
Springtime Rituals, Lore and Celebration |
'Tis that time of year when the Wheel turns and another season comes into play. I always enjoy a book that addresses the particular event or holiday in a unique and unusual way. Raven Grimassi approaches "Beltane" with a collection of myths and lore and some spells, art and recipes that are specific to this time of the year. He has collected the stories of the May Pole, the May King and May Queen, The Green Man, Jack-in-the-Green and so many of your favorite stories of this time of year. He even includes a bit on Mummery (for those who know Loreena McKennitt song "Mummers Dance"). Of course he also covers a variety of Fairy lore and some lore on flowers as well. There is a recipe for some "Quick May Wine" that sounds yummy, and a microwave recipe for custard for the modern Witch. The arts and crafts section has some instructions for wreaths and garlands, but I really liked the "pentacle hair braids". This book is just chock full of information, projects and even rituals for the celebration of Beltane. I found it easy to read, light hearted and what I have come to expect from Raven Grimassi. Add another book to my list of good books to have on the library shelf. Reviewed by Boudica |
The Real Witches Coven: |
I love the blurb on the front cover: “Kate West is the real thing. Her Witchcraft is about passion, not fashion.” Reading the book, you do get a good feeling about her passion. The material covered in her book is no nonsense and is rooted in traditional English Witchcraft. No fluff bunny material here, or new fangled junk. Her book is concise, with the details spelled out and she covers the material very well. Everything is here to begin and maintain a good, solid working coven. The material covers background history, what witchcraft is, how to start a coven and keep it in a good order. She explores personal reasons for starting a coven, basic coven rules and how to develop them. There is discussion about traditional degrees, what they constitute and how they were meant to work. The task of finding membership is covered in a wonderfully put together overview of the different kinds of members you will find and how to deal with them. A Rite of Initiation is provided as an overview of how it is done in traditional covens and it can also be used as a blueprint for adapting it to your own situation. The Wheel of the Year is explored as well as the Full Moons or Esbats. Ritual is discussed in relationship to how a coven is based around these important events. Both indoor and outdoor rituals are covered and again, Ms. West is detailed in her coverage of these. Ms. West covers the mundane workings of a Coven as well. She includes working together to establish basic rules that apply to your coven, the unavoidable paperwork and establishing training for the membership. She also explores the overall life cycle of a coven, covering such considerations as Daughter Covens, new and lost membership, “Boom and Bust” and how to be a good Covenor. A lot of information is packed into this book. There is a glossary in the back of the book, and as well as a recommended reading and contacts section. Ms. West is delightful to read, provides a good solid background based on personal experience, and has organized the information well in this book, making it easy to follow. Anyone who is considering forming a coven would do well to include this book in their list of materials they should cover and consider for their own personal information as well as for the benefit of their coven. And if you already have a coven this is another good reference book for your group. There are too few books that cover coven life as well as this one does and should be considered a must have for your reading list as well as your library shelf. Reviewed by Boudica |
Never
Burn A Witch:
A Rowan Gant Investigation |
In his first book, "Harm None", Mr. Seller's introduced us to Rowan Gant and his cast of characters that comprised what turned out to be a really original and suspenseful mystery novel. Mr. Seller's returns with his players in the Rowan Gant Investigation "Never Burn a Witch". Mr. Seller's continues with the mystery/suspence vein by presenting us with another serial killer and it falls on Rowan Gant, the modern day witch and consultant to the police department, to lead the police to a killer who is a self proclaimed inquisitor and executioner focusing on witches. Will Rowan and the police find him before he kills again? Suspense, humor, drama, good character development, original plot and twists; all these were present in the first book, and continues in the second book. Mr. Seller's presents us with an excellent offering of mystery/suspense. From the opening pages to the cliff hanger ending, its a "can't put it down" novel. With all the thrills of a 1940's detective novel and in the tradition of the classic mystery writers, we have a new entry into mystery/suspense theater with Rowan Gant. Reviewed by Boudica |
Harm None - A Rowan Gant Investigation By M. R. Sellars |
What a lovely change of pace. I have had the privilege of previewing a new book by a new author before its publishing date, and it is not a "how to" book on religion, as most of the books I get to read. This one is fiction, and is written by a member of our community. He is talented and tells a very good story. My introduction to M. R. Sellars is through his first book in a series called " Rowan Gant Investigation" and even better, I like this introduction to his characters and to his work. I am a mystery fan from way back. From the 1940's gumshoe books to the classic English mystery writers, to TV lawyers and FBI profilers, I enjoy a good murder mystery. However, as our tastes mature, we like to see a well written, well thought out mystery, as opposed to some of the material that is produced a dime a dozen. Mr. Sellars book is in the tradition of classic mysteries updated to contemporary times and does not disappoint us. Mr. Sellars is a wonderful surprise all around. No doubt this gentleman is talented. He introduces his characters and gives us a good profile of his lead cast. The delightful character of Mr. Gant is a witch. He is portrayed accurately while still retaining some of the "mysterious" which lends this book its wonderful flavor. Mr. Sellars builds his cast of characters solidly, like the brisk and bold police Detective Ben Storm, Gant's redheaded wife Felicity, and even the doubting FBI agent Mandalay. All the characters pop off the pages, which gives the reader a good basis for the rest of the book. Mr. Sellars is no slouch when it comes to writing a good story either. This one is filled with twists and turns, yet he leaves no loose ends as I can see. Then again, I read mystery for enjoyment and entertainment. I am not here to analyze and cutup fiction stories. Fiction is exactly that. The better and more believable the fiction is, though, the easier it is to follow. A good murder mystery has mystery, it has action, it has its dark sides, it has plot twists and it has entertainment value. You can find all of that in this book. This is fiction, and should be read and judged on that alone. Though we see Wicca and the Craft shown here as both order and chaos, Mr. Sellars is writing fiction, and has kept some of the myth and legend that makes what we do and who we are a little "mysterious". It works well in a fictional setting. We have our dark side as well as our light, and Mr. Sellars explores both sides in this novel, taking a little artistic license to make an entertaining story. Mr. Sellars does not dishonor our belief system in any way, and presents a good story, which should be taken as it is offered, as fictional. I am a firm believer that outstanding books written by outstanding people within our community should be promoted to our community. Most of the material I have seen deals with our spiritual path. This is the first really new material I have seen that could cross over to the commercial side. Yet, Mr. Sellars is "a self described long-haired hippie activist tree-hugger" who works within our own community. Hmmm&ldots; pretty much like his character Rowan Gant. I wonder what other parallels we might find here if we looked a little deeper into the character Rowan Gant and the writer Mr. Sellars. I find people who tell stories about what they know best do the best story telling. Mr. Sellars has created here a most memorable character and I wish him well with his series. I look forward to seeing more of his work in the future. Reviewed by Boudica |
Seasons of the Witch: |
When we raise our voices to praise the Goddess, we find our voice sometimes in poetry, or sometimes in prose and most often in song. This book is a collection of some of Patricia Monaghan's work. The book is divided into seasons, and each season is created in our minds in beautiful poetry and visualized prose. We are lead around the seasons, shown the associations of the elements, the Wheel of Life, and the different forms of the Goddess. Ms. Monaghan is a talented and very well known poet. Her works have appeared in many magazines. This book also contains a CD which has placed 25 of her poems into song. The poetry becomes devotional songs, and we find ourselves delicately woven into the visualizations by the enchanting voices of Peggy Monaghan, Sally Coombs, Susan La Croiz, Claudia Blythe, Kirsten Baird Gustafson and Lili McGovern. James Robbins also appears on one of the tracks. As you read, and listen, you are drawn in by the delicate imagery Ms. Monaghan uses. Ever present is her love for the Goddess, her understanding of the elements and we feel her love and warmth in each piece. This is a nice break from the handbooks and instructional manuals that dominate the market. Personal expression rather than personal opinion is always a nice change. The CD is professionally produced, the book is nicely bound, and the quality of the material makes this an outstanding package and a nice presentation. This is a book that can be appreciated by anyone with a soul for poetry or devotional prose. It would make a wonderful gift and a lovely addition to your library. Sometimes we need to step back from the "how to" books and remember "why". Reviewed by Boudica |
The Book of Shamanic Healing
|
Kristen Madden’s background, as noted in the preface, is
deeply rooted in Sha She also studied A wo This book covers She si Ms. Madden discusses the basics needed to work Sha This book gives the application of all the techniques
involved in being a Sha Reviewed by Boudica |
Solitary Witch: |
In the introduction of this book, Silver Ravenwolf states “How you use this book is entirely up to you. Feel free to skip over the parts that you already know, or read each section in alphabetical order – doesn’t matter. … On the other hand, if you feel the information is too basic, I beg your indulgence – it isn’t my desire to insult your intelligence, I’m simply trying to find a happy medium.” She does manage to find that happy medium in this “ultimate” encyclopedia. This is an encyclopedia/dictionary of terms, ideas, celebrations, rituals and Witchcraft in the Tradition of Silver Ravenwolf. She has put together a massive handbook for those who follow her path, and it is just a huge undertaking on her part. The book is put together in five parts, covering ‘Shadows of Religion & Mystery’, ‘Shadows of Objects and Tools’, “Shadows of Expertise & Proficiency’, ‘Shadows of Magick & Enchantment’ and ‘Shadows of Magick and Real Life’. Each section covers elements of the craft and discusses them in modern terms. This is Silver Ravenwolf’s Tradition and her version of the Craft. “Cakes and Ale” are described as “Communion” and Angels are included in “Spirit Guides”. All the material echoes her previous works and is meant for the individual who follows this particular path. Her approach in this huge work is to provide the Solitary Practitioner with reference material to help them along on their spiritual journey. She has gone into great detail, amassing a huge volume of work. The work includes a good table of contents, a bibliography, and is indexed. The followers of Silver Ravenwolf will find this book to be a complete compilation of her work and a good reference for their work as Solitary Witches. Reviewed by Boudica |
When Someone You Love is Wiccan
|
There are many books out there that approach Wicca and Witchcraft from the beginners view, but Carl McColman approaches these topics from the viewpoint of someone not interested in becoming a Wiccan or Witch but needs, for whatever reason, to know about these things. Carl McColman has been a pagan since 1983. He has done the research on the subjects and tries to cover the basics of these spiritual paths, without being path specific or covering every single variation or tradition. The book takes the format of questions and answers for the most part, with an introduction of basic facts, common sense and an attempt to tie into some commonalities found in many religions. There is a good index and the book is laid out in well organized chapters. Mr. McColman’s approach is to keep it simple, understandable and not confuse everyone with all the different opinions held by those in the pagan community. We are all aware how we love to be individualistic in our belief systems, and Mr. Colman successfully spotlights the meat and potatoes of our basic tenets. Mr. Colman states that this book is not meant for the initiated or the newbies who are looking to make this path their own. The book is not meant for theological discussion. He covers much of the ‘misinformation’ that the non-pagan will encounter and clarifies them so as to dispel these misconceptions. There is some good research, some general statements and some silly questions but the material is relevant to the audience the book is addressing. If you don’t argue the generalities, this is a great book for the purpose it is intended. We need material like this for the curious mundane. While offering the beginners books for the curious has been the practice in the past, these books did not offer many of the answers that those who have no intention of following these paths were looking for. If you find you need a book of this kind in your family, workplace or community, this will fill the bill quite well. Reviewed by Boudica |
The Tarot Companion; An
Essential Reference Guide |
So many tarot books you pick up these days give you the author's insight into what each of the different cards mean. You can get lost in the different references. Tarot Companion takes a unique approach. Besides giving a general overview of each of the cards (Ms. Porter uses the Rider-Waite deck) she then takes a look at the symbology of the deck as well. By understanding the symbols used in the cards and the meanings behind them, we begin to see trends within a reading that we might not have seen before. The most obvious example would be a reading with four kings, or 5 pentacles. Ms. Porter covers these repeated trends, as well as explaining symbols that may repeat within the cards themselves. An example of this would be if roses repeated themselves in some of the cards (examples Fool and Magician in the Major Arcana). By understanding what roses might mean, you can draw a connection you may not have otherwise seen. Her insight into the meanings of the symbology used on the Rider-Waite deck are refreshingly interesting, not a repeat of dozens of other books. Ms. Porter also points that many other decks based on the Rider-Waite deck use similar symbology and much of this material can be used with other decks. There sections included on different tarot layouts, Chakra's and the tarot, Astrology and the tarot, Cabala and the tarot and many other correspondences. A nicely put together book, well developed and with an interesting new look at how the tarot deck works. Reviewed by Boudica |
|
This book is indeed a Book of Shadows in the traditional sense. A "How To" for beginners, yet full of interesting information for the adepts. Dorothy writes in a manner which emphasizes the personal responsibilities of Craft practice. Drawing one's attention to the spiritual aspects, and calling on the reader to do more towards incorporating the practices in our daily lives. Simple, practical, powerful rituals ... recorded and passed on to those following the pathways. This is what a Book of Shadows should be... Informative, fulfilling, and positively enchanting! Although this is not an autobiography, Dorothy's personality beams from every page. Definitely makes you want to follow her lead, and experience her joy which is evident. Can you tell I like this book? And yes, I would recommend it as a reference for Covened and Solitary alike. It will go on my list of recommended readings for students of the Craft. Reviewed by Boudica |
The
Virtual Pagan:
|
Here is a good idea that went astray. So The idea of this book, to explore Wicca and Paganis Ms. McSherry provides infor What went astray was her inclusion of her own personal path
of CyberCovens and her co “If you are new to Paganis We all truly only agree on one thing:” An’ it har Paganis There is While it is interesting to read, Ms. McSherry’s personal
path should have been presented as a separate book. The usefulness of
this book as an Internet resource beco Reviewed by Boudica |
Where to Park Your Broomstick - |
Lauren Manoy started her journey on her path when she was 14 years of age. She has pursued her path and has written a book for teenagers about the witches path from the perspective of a teenager to other teenagers. "Where to Park Your Broomstick" is a very thorough look at witchcraft and Wicca explained so that the beginning teenager can get a good grasp on what this Spiritual Path is all about. The layout of the book is also excellent in that the material is chapter referenced and cross referenced in the index to make it easy to use this book. The book uses quotes from a variety of resources, from Joseph Campbell to the Farrar's to Bonewits to other practicing teenagers, the material covered has been expertly researched, clearly stated and covers more than just the usual *cookbook* material included in many other books of this type. While there are spells for general use, there is also practical information on herbs, discussion on comparative religions, working with ritual, history on Wicca and the different traditions, energy work, tools, politics and teen rights, and so much more to explore. It almost seems Ms. Manoy has left nothing out. There is even "A Note to Parents" from a social worker who explains that a teenager being interested in Wicca is not an unhealthy pursuit. He also lists some warning signs that might show your teenager is on an unhealthy path. All in all, this book is an excellent resource for Pagan parents looking for a book to help them along in their teachings of their own children, as well as a good starting place for someone who's teenager has shown interest in something they are not familiar with. Written in a language that most teenagers can relate to, well researched, chock full of excellent content, this book can work with adults as well as teens. This book is a wonderful first presentation from Ms. Manoy, and an excellet reference book for the teenager. Reviewed by Boudica |
Wicca
Covens: How to Start and Organize Your Own |
Although Wicca Covens was released in 1999 we can still call it a new release by virtue of the fact that shortly after its initial release Citadel Press ceased operation and stopped publishing the title. The company was then purchased by Kensington Press and Judy Harrow's book was re-released this past February. I for one am glad that Wicca Covens is available once again because it would be a shame to see this excellent resource languish in out of print limbo. Through her own extensive experience as a High Priestess within an ongoing coven setting and many contributions from leaders within other covens, Judy Harrows' book explores many of the issues concerned with starting a new coven, standards for finding your first coven, and many topics in between. Judy's own background in group dynamics and psychology are brought to bear on how people interact within the confines of a coven. Wicca Covens does not try to gloss over the realities of coven life but instead offers us an honest look at the true nature of a working with a group of fellow travellers to achieve personal and group objectives. This is sometimes achieved in the midst of the stages of growth within any working group which as Judy defines it has seven phases: Gathering: Open meetings, drop in groups. Birthing: Self-definition Forming: Getting acquainted, establishing trust Storming: Power issues. Norming: Development of group rules and customs. Performing: Working toward the group's major goals. Mourning: Completion, moving on. Wicca Covens covers such diverse topics as Basic Groupwork, The Coven as a Worshipping Group, Coven as Magical and Support Group and Parents, Children and the Coven: Balancing the Needs. Judy has drawn deeply from the well of her own experiences but when even more light is needed on any given subject Judy is not afraid to call on other voices to give us other perspectives from which to approach the topic being considered. A prime example is the chapter on Parents, Children and the Coven, Judy is not herself a parent but still wanting to cover this important area of coven life she built the chapter around what parents have told her and sought out her peers for opinions on how this issue was addressed in their own groups. This presents you not only with the author's point of view on the subject but a good cross section of other covens and how they handle the difficulties of integrating the children of coven members into their lives. Whether you wish to form an informal group to work with on an occasional basis or you wish to be involved with a coven that will become like an extended family to you Wicca Covens will help you through the process. After 17 years as High Priestess of the Proteus coven, Judy has much to share with you about how it all works together. Definitely a book that should be on your book shelf if you have ever had an interest as to the mechanics of what makes a coven work and thrive. Reviewed by Boudica |
Wicca for Couples – Making Magick Together
|
Fro A. J. Drew sorts out so Fro There is an interesting discussion on Wiccan leaders in
chapter 4 that should be read and debated by everyone. This is not to say
this is the answer, but it should stir a lot of people into thinking about how
the Pagan Co A. J. provides us with so While the focus of this book is on couples practicing as a
singular unit within Wicca, there is This is a book that could be a road A. J. has provided us with a book to Reviewed by Boudica |
Wicca for Life: The Way of the
Craft--from Birth to Summerland |
Raymond Buckland is best known for "Uncle Buckey's Big Blue Book" which has been a staple in the community for years. He is a respected author and voice within our community. His newest release "Wicca for Life" seems to be Mr. Buckland's new version of the "Big Blue Book" and is presented in a much more dignified and sedate package than his famous "blue pentacle" covered book. The material has matured also. Mr. Buckland covers everything from the history of witchcraft to initiations to spells and rituals to death. There is a lot of new material here that was not in the blue book. The craft is brought into the 21st century and Mr. Buckland is just the person to do it. It is well put together, simply explained, and covers a lot of ground. Though the book appears at first to be a handbook for the beginner, it reads more like a reference book for those who are already walking the path. Mr. Buckland still approaches Witchcraft as a religion of "initiation" and there is no differentiation between Wicca and Witchcraft. But his theology on Wicca is solid. Mr. Buckland has always been a Traditional Wiccan, with his own brand being a variation on the Gardnarian Tradition. While the book is geared towards the traditional, there is a lot to read, absorb and learn from in this book for anyone walking the Wiccan Path. The hard cover version is lovely, nicely bound, lovely jacket art. The book does contain illustrations, and there is even music for traditional tunes if you are musically inclined. I could see this book eventually replacing "big blue" on library shelves, and it would be a good choice. I did enjoy reading this one, and would recommend it to both beginners and seasoned travelers. Reviewed by Boudica |
The Wicca Handbook |
This book, by Wiccan Priestess Eileen Holland, is probably one of the best books for the serious beginner and intermediate Wiccan I have seen in a long time. This book is not a general information book, but a working handbook, to be used as reference and as a guide as you start on the spiritual path of Wicca. As I read her introduction, I was drawn into reading further. Here is a woman who is as practical as she is informative and learned. I was also impressed with her practicality in dealing with the many different aspects of Wicca. But it was her overall view of the state of Wicca with todays rapidly expanding influx of new people that really impressed me. To quote "The rapid growth of Wicca currently makes this (initiation by a High Priest and/or High Priestess) impractical, since there are not enough High Priests/High Priestesses to train and initiate all the newcomers. Wicca is also establishing itself in new countries and cultures, places where there are no experienced Witches to lead others." All of her book is just as rooted in practicality. As I said, this is a working handbook, not a simple beginners guide. It is filled with information and how to use it. Spells, circles, health and healing, how to do it, when to do it, suggestions for seeking guidance from the deities. The information is abundant, clear directions are given and it is probably one of the most complete books for its size and content. Those who have been on their path for a few years will find this a great reference book to refer to time and again. It has abundant material gathered together in one convenient place, which will make this the book of choice when looking something up for a new idea or an old one that has been temporarily forgotten. Ms. Holland also keeps the book generic, not leaning towards any particular path or deity. This makes it easy to adapt the information provided and is diverse enough for any person who is pursuing the Wiccan path. For the average solitary, I would recommend this as a good, practical and very well packed textbook that will be referred to again and again. Reviewed by Boudica |
The Wiccan
Rede:
|
Mr.
Ventimiglia takes the Wiccan Rede Couplet (the twenty-six line poem which
explores the Wiccan Rede) and lays out his ideas of what he believes this poem
represents in the Wiccan Community. The origins
of this couplet are questioned by many groups and individuals. The first appearance in print of this poem is
in Green Egg magazine back in 1975 (Vol 3, #69) called Rede Of The
Wiccae. None of this is mentioned in this book. What is mentioned is that the origins of this
Couplet are in question by many groups and this is probably the most accurate
statement in this book. The opening lines of
this book probably say more about the authors motivation than anything else the
author writes, “The reason why I wrote The Wiccan Rede is simple: There has never been a book written or
published solely concentrating on its deep and meaningful teachings, and so I
felt that there was a definite need.”
Be mindful that the
author interprets the material by his own ideas of what the Rede means. While he does explore the couplet, he also
inserts his own ideas on his personal spiritual path. A section on why you should be on a natural
diet: “In keeping with the
thought that all life is sacred and divine, I would like to touch on the
benefits of a natural diet that exemplifies the principles of the Wiccan Rede
and its deep philosophical teachings.”
He goes on to suggest: “Where protein is concerned, milk is a complete
food. Therefore, a diet containing milk
and dairy products, fresh fruits, leafy vegetables and whole grains is the ideal
diet for all of humanity.” He goes on….
“The sixth and seventh
couplets of the Wiccan Rede teach: “Deosil go by waxing moon, chanting out the
Seax-Wiccan Runes. Widdershins go by
waning moon, chanting out thy baneful tune.”
This lesson is perhaps the most complex of all the Wiccan Rede’s
teachings, for within it are contained the secrets of the directions and
activities of celestial bodies, runology and curses.” Really… Coming to “Of Morals and Ethics” he states
“In today’s world, especially in Mr. Ventimiglia’s bio states “He has
intensively studied most of the world’s major religious traditions, as well as
many pagan and shamanistic traditions.
He was ordained by the Reviewed by Boudica |
Wiccan Warrior
|
The author of "The Law Enforcement Guide to Wicca" presents us here with what I feel is probably going to be a most controversial book, and I love a good controversial book. Kerr Cuhulain examines the path of the Warrior Wiccan. Though many books have been written on the basics of Wicca and magic, the three aspects of the God and Goddess, healing and such, none have really done a good job examining the path of the Warrior. Kerr Cuhulain covers here how to be an everyday Warrior while living the Wiccan Rede. If you have read Kerr Cuhulain, you would know he is a former Air Force Officer and a police officer as well as being a Wiccan. He is a Wiccan of thirty years and his education and understanding of both worlds is evident in this book. He examines the evolution of Wicca, how it has grown, changed and continues to grow and evolve. For many, we can read his words and see how these changes have indeed come about in all the Earth Religions. Others will read this and disagree completely, holding that Mysteries never change. Whatever your view, you will be challenged as you read this book. Kerr Cuhulain approaches being a Wiccan Warrior in a wonderful didactic style. He covers balance, creativity, energy, dreaming, magic, ritual and rationality all as pertaining to being a Warrior. His training in the martial arts shows in his approach to discipline and wisdom. I am impressed greatly with this book, and find myself picking it up often to refer back to some of his material, contemplating it as it applies to myself, and how can it be applied to everyday life. Maybe, in a way, those of us who stand up in our world as different, following the less traveled path are really warriors at heart. I find myself in this position often. This book will probably sit on my desk for a while as I ponder this further. This book is filled with more than just basic material and is not fluff by any means. Kerr Cuhulain offers meat and potato information, discusses intelligently the foundations he lays for his material and offers a well researched, well put together book on a path less traveled, being a "Wiccan Warrior". Reviewed by Boudica |
The
Wiccan Web: Surfing the Magic on the Internet |
Wow, the novice Techno Pagans now have a book all their own. And a strange little book it is. Trish Telesco and Sirona Knight have compiled a collection of information that makes a good introduction to the beginning web surfer. The first part of the book deals with the basics of getting onto the Internet, from choosing an ISP to surfing with security. Very good for beginners. The next part of the book deals with setting up your computer "altar", cyber rituals, computer wizardry and techno-spells. While my computer is far from my "altar", I do spend alot of time at my "puter", and I make my space as comfortable as possible. Probably what Ms. Telesco and Ms. Knight were getting at. As for cyberspace and Craft practice, that is an individual choice. This book offers an interesting perspective on this much discussed topic. The meat and potatoes of this book are the Wiccan Web Sites listed in the book. If you are looking for sites to surf, there are many hours of surfing and reading to be had here. This book covers loads of material, from chat room etiquette to building a web site. There is a section on emoticons, ICQ and many of the basics that you may not have thought about. Defraging your drive, complete with a spell (how many times have you prayed that defrag will not mess up your hard drive... certainly makes sense to me..) to cyber Gods and Goddesses, there is some new, original material here along with the standard computer buzz words. While not for everyone, I do think the collection of Wiccan Web Sites is a good draw for this book. The only regret I have is that the web sites section doesn't cover more and will probably have to be updated on a regular basis. Web sites have a tendency to disappear without notice, or just close because they can not go on anymore. Already, Green Egg is gone and will be missed. So, if you are looking for a beginners guide to the Wiccan Internet, and you feel the "Idiot" book is not for you, The Wiccan Web is a good place to start. Reviewed by Boudica |
The Wiccan Wellness
Book:
|
Laura Perry is a naturopath, teacher, shaman and Wiccan Priestess. Ms. Perry presents us with her idea of blending earth based spirituality with natural wholeness in this book. While it is titled “Wiccan Wellness” it appears to be more general in its focus, an all around book of natural health and wellness and is more general in its spiritual aspects, which is a good thing and should have been emphasized rather than trying to limit it to Wicca. It would appeal to a broader base, and not limit itself in its scope. But what deserves focus is this book’s approach to good health, exercise, creating your own personal sacred spaces and living in a healthy atmosphere which you create for yourself. Create positive personal affirmations in the form of finding your own strengths. Develop a exercise program for yourself, plant some greenery (Magickal Green People), value your work and create a healthy work environment are some of the topics for personal development. The book covers many topics like plant associations, feng shui, personal journaling, healthy surroundings, natural healthcare (and how to find it in your area), rites of wellness and so much more. Natural healthcare covers such topics as acupuncture and acupressure, aromatherapy, Ayurveda, the Alexander technique and other practices of health maintenance. There are lists of suppliers and further reading on much of the material. The book blends the needs of the mind, body and spirit together to create a balance. The chapters are laid out well and flow through the book and there is an index in the back of the book for quick reference. This is a good beginner’s book on personal health and care and blending it with earth based spirituality. The focus may say “Wiccan” but I think it could work for any one following an earth based spiritual path and is looking at developing a program of personal health and wellness. Reviewed by Boudica |
The Witch
Book – The Encyclopedia of Witchcraft, Wicca and Neo-Paganism |
I am impressed with all the large bodies of work that have been taken on by the authors in the pagan community as of late. There have been a few who have tried to collect in one place all the information regarding the birthing and growth of the pagan community. Each of them has its own flavor, which is what makes them different from each other. They contain various bits of information that the author found to be of significance to the pagan community. Raymond Buckland has now placed his collection of facts and fiction before the pagan community with his encyclopedia. This has the “Buckland” flavor throughout and is the Pagan world as he sees it. The entries are comprised of biographies, descriptions of tools and words, short synopsis of movies and television programs, traditions, history and much more. Many entries are accompanied by his sources, which also includes Raymond Buckland. So, presented here, for the reader, is the world according to many different authors, with diverse opinions on many of the topics. This can give varied opinions on the many topics covered here, but it also gives us the insights and opinions of Mr. Buckland as well. In some instances there are direct contradictions, but if you check the source, you will find it is because Mr. Buckland has presented the viewpoint of two different persons, which gives this book a contrast not seen in other works of this kind. The material is cross referenced in the index which allows for quick access to the material within, as well as it being alphabetically referenced. There are also photos and illustrations of different aspects, symbols and persons including some from the Fortean Picture Library, which is Raymond Buckland’s own collection. I found this to be an interesting collection of material. From movies to magic, Mr. Buckland included it all in one very nicely presented volume which would enhance any coffee table or library. And while I would really have liked to have seen Mr. Buckland’s reviews of more movies than the few he did review, for the most part it is an eclectic collection of references, persons, events and things that comprise our way of life. Reviewed by Boudica |
Witchcraft: An Alternative Path |
Ann Moura is best known for her “Green Witchcraft” series. Her newest book is more of a general basic handbook on Witchcraft which provides information that every new Witch would need. Covered here are the basic elements of being a Witch. What is a Witch, what are the basic beliefs and practices, history of the symbols, required tools and common celebrations; all of these are put together for easy reference with some very well researched and clearly written explanations. Descriptions of tools, use of magical writings, basic rituals, and even spellworking is discussed, and explained for the beginner. Philosophies are explored and the “how to” is worked out in a logical and easy to understand manner. Ms. Moura provides many correspondences tables and mini lists of items and their meanings and/or uses. Divination tools are also included for the beginner exploring this path for the first time. There is included a chapter on “Witchcraft for Daily Living” which discusses being a Witch in the modern world and how it can be applied to your spiritual life as well as the effects it can have on your mundane life. There are many decisions to be made once you start on your chosen path, and Ms, Moura explores how you may want to approach this in your own life. The book contains many good tables, a glossary, suggested reading and is indexed for easy use. The book keeps to a generic format, making it easy for anyone to use as it is not path specific. It is written in clear and east to understand language and does not approach the material as “mysterious” or for the chosen few. It is easy to understand and kept simple in its style. Overall this is a fine choice for a beginner’s book from an experienced and well known author. Reviewed by Boudica |