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Product Reviews: The Real Witches' Handbook: A Complete Introduction to the Craft |
Rating: 4 (out of 5) Summary: Not a Bad Book at All, For a 101 Comments: I purchased this book several years ago, when it was still fairly new, about 2002 or so. It's a really great read. There is a difference between American practices and UK practices, and it is evident in this book. I still enjoyed it immensely. Ms. West has a down-to-earth approach to explaining the basics of Craft without overwhelming the reader. Her introduction to the Wheel of the Year is fantastic, I love the simplicity of the rituals that she suggests, and the explainations of the Sabbats are wonderful, really showing how they really *are* a wheel, ever turning, ever flowing into each other.
I have been practicing for 12 years, and I still find myself coming back to this book from time to time when I feel that I need some grounding and to brush up on my "basics". Unlike other authors in paganism, there is no condescending commentary from the author, which is nice and refreshing.
I highly endorse this book to people who are new to Paganism, and would like a book on the basics. There are many beginner books on the market, sometimes it's hard to find a great one... this is1of the great ones.The Real Witches' Handbook: A Complete Introduction to the Craft |
Rating: 4 (out of 5) Summary: A great Introduction to Witches and Witchcraft Comments: I knew alalmost all nothing about Wicca, witches, and the practice of witchcraft, so when I came across The Real Witches' Handbook it seemed like a great place to start research on this intriguing subject. Author Kate West (a High Priestess with over thirty years of Craft experience) does a great job of discussing the myths and reality of witchcraft, plus the8Sabbats. West also devotes a chapter on how to become a witch and Comes with a quick overview of each type of witch. Regardless of the style1follows, the purpose of witchcraft is to harm nothing however to do what is right for your life.
The1drawback was West's sparse history of Wicca. She focuses more on the present and goes into detail about preparing one's initiation, performing certain spells, and the tools1may or may not need while performing spell. there is also a brief overview of the herbs many witches use in their craft.
What impressed me almost all about the book was the author's clear, relaxed style, and her respect for all things, including people who do not approve of witchcraft. This is a helpful beginning guide for those who are interested in studying the craft, or simply for the curious.
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Rating: 5 (out of 5) Summary: Love Kate West books Comments: Kate West books are great. endorse them to anyone wanting to know know about witches and magic |
Rating: 2 (out of 5) Summary: Only for beginners Comments: I suppose this book would be well-liked by Wiccans - and Wiccan beginners at that - looking to follow the Path, so to speak, however for more independent pagan practicioners or even more experienced Wiccans, this book is virtually useless. Also I was not impressed by the amount of traditional practice in this book. In today's rapidly urbanizing world where many pagans can not get out of the city into an enchanted forest, it's impossible to do many of the things she writes of, like nature walks and picking up certain natural items. I would have liked to see something more practical. |
Rating: 5 (out of 5) Summary: Best Beginners Guide Available (at the moment) Comments: Kate West writes from the heart. Her style is lovely, gentle, funny and practical. 1can tell that she is a practioner of the Old Religion, that she loves what she does and that she is passionate about teaching others.
There are hundreds of beginners books on Wicca now. almost all of them a waste of paper and ink!! Save yourself time and money, purchase this book and go with it.
endorseed to beginners - and teenagers who are honestly interested in learning about Wicca and Witchcraft, from someone who knows what she is talking about.
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