by Migene González-Wippler
Like other religions, Witchcraft has its deities, priests, holidays, rituals, and rules. Yet, Wiccan beliefs and practices are often unknown or misunderstood by non-Pagans and the uninitiated. Approaching the Craft from the Gardnerian perspective, Migene González-Wippler offers a friendly, straightforward introduction to the Old Religion and sheds light on what it truly means to be a Witch.
What goes on at coven meetings? How do Witches perform magic? Why does magic work? From initiation rites to invoking elementals, González-Wippler explains both practical and spiritual aspects of Wiccan traditions. Book of Shadows also teaches the significance of Moon phases, herbs, colors, crystals, common magical tools, and other implements when performing sacred ceremonies.
Publishers Weekly
A "Book of Shadows" is simply the title used for a witch's journal-the place where each witch chronicles all matters of spiritual relevance over the course of a lifetime. Gonz lez-Wippler, a witch and devotee of the Gardnerian tradition, uses this idea of the "witch's journal" to introduce readers to the basics of witchcraft, creating an encyclopedia-like book of terms, initiation ceremonies and a glossary of herbs and incenses, all by way of mimicking what is normally detailed in a personal "Book of Shadows." Beginning with a brief history of witchcraft, Gonz lez-Wippler then describes the witch's coven, major festivals and three initiation ceremonies. Her discussions are certainly knowledgeable and thorough, if not exciting. Those looking for a "how-to" guide for becoming a witch will find this a useful, well-written resource. Readers may find some material a bit risqu , since kissing features prominently in most rituals, in particular the erotic "Five-Fold Kiss" which involves a kiss each to the feet, the knees, the lower abdomen, the breasts, and finally the mouth. Or perhaps readers will be left wondering whether it's a good idea to practice "skyclad," or nakedness, in the backyard. Neighbors, beware. (Nov.) Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.
