Witchcraft is a legally recognized religion in the United States,as declared in 1985, Dettmer V. Landon (617 E Supp.529) the District Court of Virginia pursuant to rule 52a of the Rules of Civil procedure. Reaffirmed in 1986 in the Federal Appeals Court, Fourth Circuit, Butzner J. (592 F. 2d. 934) Henceforth, Witchcraft and Witches are protected under the United States Constitution (Amendment I;XIV)
I've had this book on my shelf for some time now and it does rank up there in my top twenty references. It covers a lot of areas I've seen in other books, but the nice part is that this is all in one big reference book that gives you advanced and basic concepts in a useful and well thought-out format.
Some of the discussions in the book do depart from "normal" Witchcraft books (if there is such a thing), such as the discussions about the why and how of spellwork (which is usually taken on faith and with no real examination of the underlying mechanisms).
The author takes the time to build a good foundation of Magickal understanding that doesn't just run the reader right out to buying expensive ingredients. Instead, this is a patient and systematic exploration of magick and how it works. Personally, I don't think there is a Witch out there who won't get some benefit from one or many readings of this excellent book.
The author seems to have structured this in the form of an educational class, with you as the student and he guides you as if you were there in his circle. This is the perfect reference for a solitary or group that does not have easy access to other experienced Witches and needs good guidance.
I recommend this book highly and hope it benefits you too! -- AJ
Sunday, January 14 2007 @ 05:39 PM PST
Contributed by: aj
Views: 1,068
One book (if you can call it that!) that I always find myself reading is the venerable "Witches Almanac" that is published yearly and is always something you see in just about any metaphysical bookstore or online at Amazon. I've collected one of these every year for more years than I care to share and every one has been a jewel to read. I'm ordering my copy of the 2007 edition and know it will be just as interesting as the prior editions.
Amazon's editor review of the Almanac reads:
"Acclaimed for the quality of its art, design, and content since its debut in 1971, The Witches' Almanac offers a treasury of ancient lore and legend many readers cherish as collectible editions. As the original and authentic guide and companion for adept, occultist, and witch, the Almanac provides readers adventurous browsing. Not just a yearly almanac, this is a volume that can be read at any time. With numerous articles bringing mystery and time-honored wisdom to each reader, this work can be an inspiration whenever you desire a bit of the unknown in your life. After celebrating our twenty-fifth year, we have moved on to a larger format, with a layout that is easier to read and beautifully designed. Illustrations and medieval woodcuts abound in this handsome edition.
Sunday, May 08 2005 @ 01:05 PM PDT
Contributed by: aj
Views: 943
For a long time I wondered if there would be book that did more than talk about the same old hash about the Craft, and more specifically, I wondered when I would see a book that dealt with how we Pagan folks work with computer technology.
Yesterday, on a trip to use some gift certificates at a mall, I found a little section of the store within their "New Age" section and happened to catch a glimpse of a small book called "The Virtual Pagan. So I bought it and have been reading through it.
The author, Lisa McSherry, has a website dedicated to the book, and states of the title:
"Divided into three helpful sections, The Virtual Pagan explains to readers how to get online and find a group that meets their needs. The founder of her own online coven, McSherry also shares her insights into keeping the circle vital, suggestions for how to build a cyber altar, as well as steps to prepare for and conduct meaningful rituals online. "
"From renowned adventurer and rising television star, Phil Keoghan, No Opportunity Wasted: Creating a List for Life combines the self-improvement appeal of an inspirational book with the adrenaline-rush of an adventure story. Taking the reader on a series of exciting journeys, Phil sets forth his dynamic and uplifting philosophy, and in a step-by-step manner, shows the reader how to put that philosophy into effect by creating a personalized "List for Life."
"In dramatic narrative form, Keoghan transports the reader from Yucatan Jungle to the African Congo, from the depths of an underwater cave to the top of an erupting volcano. But this is no armchair traveler book. It is an urgent call to action, inspiring and enabling people to overcome fear and seek out memorable experiences of their own. With his fresh and compelling N.O.W. philosophy, this is a book that will help us all dream more freely and live more fully."
Friday, October 01 2004 @ 07:28 PM PDT
Contributed by: aj
Views: 904
I recently fell into a used copy of "Moon Magic" and was captivated by the writing and style that Dion Fortune is so known for.
Her character development and language are absolutely masterful in the novel and I was entranced during both times I read the story.
The language is dated but quite charming, considering the period in which it was written (Early 20'th century). Some would have difficulty believing that it could have been published, but given Dion Fortune's reputation and high esteem in many circles, she didn't seem to have much trouble getting her work printed.
Sunday, August 22 2004 @ 12:07 PM PDT
Contributed by: aj
Views: 1,027
"Aphrodite and Me" shows women how they can embody the Goddess at any age. This book struck me with the simplicity of the message and upon watching the television interview with Jeanette Longoria, the book's author, we decided to feature the book and ask for your comments and feedback on it's contents.
Since I am a man, I can only say that if a woman were to dress in such ways (as Jeanette does in the cover), and to make this a regular part of life, it would certainly capture my attention (as it would any red blooded male!) ;>)
Sunday, August 01 2004 @ 08:04 PM PDT
Contributed by: aj
Views: 1,043
The book of the month for August 2004 is the "Element Encyclopedia of 5,000 Spells" by Judika Illes.
This is every bit the big book of spells that one would imagine it to be. I picked up a copy the other day on an impromptu trip to Borders, and was surprised at the sheer number of spells built into this heavy tome!
Visit Amazon to view the book in detal
This great book is about the curator of a museum who has been murdered and Robert Langdon, a Symbologist whose mission is to investigate substances found near and on the body of the murder victim.
Robert begins an unlikely partnership, working with Sophie Neveu, a cryptologist. Both find clues in Leonardo Da Vinci's paintings leading to what they believe is a religious relic that was hidden for centuries.
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One book (if you can call it that!) that I always find myself reading is the venerable "Witches Almanac" that is published yearly and is always something you see in just about any metaphysical bookstore or online at Amazon. I've collected one of these every year for more years than I care to share and every one has been a jewel to read. I'm ordering my copy of the 2007 edition and know it will be just as interesting as the prior editions.
For a long time I wondered if there would be book that did more than talk about the same old hash about the Craft, and more specifically, I wondered when I would see a book that dealt with how we Pagan folks work with computer technology.
The April 2005 book of the month is 
I recently fell into a used copy of "Moon Magic" and was captivated by the writing and style that Dion Fortune is so known for.
"Aphrodite and Me" shows women how they can embody the Goddess at any age. This book struck me with the simplicity of the message and upon watching the television interview with Jeanette Longoria, the book's author, we decided to feature the book and ask for your comments and feedback on it's contents.
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