BOTW: To Ride a Silver Broomstick

This book was originally published in 1993, and I believe it was Ravenwolf’s first book.  It has been reprinted many times over the years with updates and some of the more controversial portions removed or changed.  This is one of the reasons that there is so much debate over this book.

Some will claim that it is full of dangerous and unethical information, and others will claim that they found nothing of the kind. It all depends on which volume you happen to read.  The version I read for this review was published prior to 2000 (I wish I could check the copyright page, but I no longer have this book, so I am going by the year that it was given to me).

BOTW: Teen Witch

Even leaving my feelings about Silver Ravenwolf aside,  this is one of the very worst Pagan books that I have ever read.

It is presented as a Christian/mainstream parent-friendly guide, but smacks of a desperate attempt by ‘Mama Silver’ to appear cooler than the average mom.

BOTW: The Real Witches Garden

The Real Witches’ Garden by Kate West is filled with some great ideas for those who want to add a bit of the natural world to their magical practice.

If you have never had a garden before, then this is a good book to help you out in getting started in that direction. However, if you do know how to take care of plants, there isn’t a lot that is new in this volume.

BOTW: Irish Witchcraft from an Irish Witch

I really enjoyed this book. ‘Irish Witchcraft from an Irish Witch’ is a look at the little known path of traditional Irish Witchcraft.

This is not a how-to manual, or an Irish Witchcraft 101. Instead this book is a look at the myth and magic, history and fable that permeates Irish culture to this day. And also it’s a refreshingly practical take on contemporary witchcraft.

Lora O’Brien retells some of the better known Irish myths, discusses ways to contact and honor the faeries, and even takes on the topic of the European Witch Hunts. There is a wealth of ideas for rituals, life passage ceremonies, and ways for people to connect with their Irish heritage.

Tomorrow is the Day: Don’t Forget!

Donate a Pagan Book Day is tomorrow!  For those unfamiliar with this program:

National Donate a Pagan Book Day was established in January 2012 to encourage those who love books to directly donate a Pagan or Pagan friendly book to their local public library or Pagan community center.

(from the NDPBD website)

This is a fantastic way to give back to your local Pagan community, and help those who are just starting out on their path.  It occurs to me, tho, that some libraries may not be open Easter Monday.

If you’re out and about today, you may want to check that out.  Happy donating!