RECENT REVIEWS & ENDORSEMENTS
Pagan Portals - Zen Druidry
Joanna van der Hoeven
The sign of a mature, cultured person is that they can mix well in a wide variety of social settings and can contribute to, and benefit from, interactions with many different kinds of people. So it is, one might say, with religion and spirituality, and by this criterion Druidry is a very mature and sophisticated path indeed. In the 18th & 19th centuries, Druid Revivalists found concordance with Christianity, and in the 1970s the Reformed Druids of North America experimented with combining Judaism and Zen Buddhism with their path. I don’t know how whether the Judaism combination survived, but the combination of Zen with Druidry struck a chord, and 33 years later the RDNA grove in Seattle is still going strong, forming a branch known as the ZDNA – the Zen Druids of North America – with its founder reporting that ‘hundreds of people have been through the Zen Druid experience’, and that they now have ‘a dance group, recording artists, choir, and other expressions beyond their ceremonial meetings. Now called the Emerald Grove, after the city’s namesake, it is alive and well; growing like a tree.’
In the 1990s a collection of essays entitled The Rebirth of Druidry, included an article that explored Druidry’s parallels with Taoism, and more recently in 2010, Jon Moore published his book Zen Druid: A Paganism for the 21st Century. That same year the Order of Bards Ovates & Druids pioneered The One Tree Gathering, designed to explore the connections between the Dharmic paths of the East and Druidism, and now in 2013 we have the appearance of Joanna Van der Hoeven’s book Zen Druidry affirming the richness of this particular combination, and offering an excellent insight into the ways in which the ways of Zen and Druidry can be united to form a rich and meaningful philosophy and way of life.
Joanna’s book is one of Moon Books ‘Pagan Portals’ series, which takes interesting topics and asks writers to cover them in 60 to 70 pages. For those of us haunted by the piles of worthy books we want to read, but simply can’t find the time to get to, a Pagan Portal book offers the tempting prospect of finishing an entire book in one or two sittings. This is not, I know, sufficient reason to recommend a book, but the format forces an author to get to the point and not repeat themselves or expand to fill their requisite 200 pages, and the result as far as I can see is that it works.
Joanna’s Zen Druidry is divided into two parts. The first, taking up 34 pages, sets the scene, providing us with a resumé of Zen and then Druidry. In the second part the chef then combines these two ingredients.
The first part of the book is a necessary preparation for the second, but the most interesting and novel part of the book comes in the second section. Here Joanna suggests ways in which the two approaches can be combined, showing us the connections between the Five Noble Precepts of Buddhism and Druidry, and then looking at how the two approaches can work together in meditation. As she writes: ‘Druidry, when applied with the [Zen] mechanics of non-attachment, allows for a total immersion in the present moment, where true relationship can be obtained and where the awen flows as freely as it ever could.’
One of the most interesting parts of the book is left to almost the end, when Joanna suggests a way of relating the Druid celebration of the Eightfold Year with a contemplation of the Buddhist Eightfold Path, so that – for example – one decides to focus on Right Mindfulness at the Winter Solstice, and Right Concentration at Imbolc. Although relating a specific spoke of the Buddhist wheel to a particular festival is arbitrary, Joanna points out some nice resonances, and the idea of an annual pilgrimage of contemplation around the Wheel is an attractive one – particularly to solitary practitioners and to those who shy away from the sometimes more ‘showy’ manifestations of Pagan celebration.
The best dishes are the ones that leave you wanting more, and Joanna’s book is like a perfect hors d’oeuvres. She shows you how well the two paths can weave together, and if someone were to ask me what books I’d recommend to those interested in combining Buddhism and Druidry, I’d say: start with Zen Druidry and then move on to Jason’s Kirkey’s Salmon in the Spring which continues the journey of exploration into the way the traditions of Celtic spirituality and Buddhism can complement each other, a journey wonderfully introduced in Joanna’s Zen Druidry – Waking To The Natural World.
~ Philip Carr-Gomm, Philip Carr-Gomm's Web Blog
Pagan Portals - Kitchen Witchcraft
Rachel Patterson
I really loved this book was easy to read and felt like I was sitting in a room talking to you ~ Doug, Amazon
Pagan Portals - Kitchen Witchcraft
Rachel Patterson
Received notice from my daughter that Rachel's book was now available. I really enjoy reading her Kitchen Witchcraft. She is a very knowledgeable person whom I respect. ~ Zylvia Review, Amazon
Stalking the Goddess
Mark Carter
At over 340 pages this is a lot of work but it is well worth it. Fortunately, it is written in a conversational style, and should be accessible to all interested readers. The next time you want to demand that publishers support higher quality books, you can point to Stalking the Goddess as an example of what such books look like. ~ Brendan Myers, Witches and Pagans
Pagan Portals - Zen Druidry
Joanna van der Hoeven
The tone of this book is friendly … one of presenting and discussing concepts in a non-judgmental manner. It is told through the presentation of facts, as well as the presentation of story. It is a humble book, packed with a great deal of wisdom. ~ Bonnie Cehovet, http://bonniecehovet.wordpress.com/2013/05/11/pagan-portals-zen-druidry/
Deep Heart of Witchcraft, The
David Salisbury
When I got a review copy of The Deep Heart of Witchcraft, the publicist told me the book was "a good one". Well, I thought, I suppose she would say that, being the publicist. Mind you, the initial blurb sounded interesting too: "...The Deep Heart of Witchcraft, a book aimed at Wiccans and Witches looking to go beyond the 101."
There are quite a lot of books out there aimed at beginners, but there's a shortage of material pitched at a more advanced level. Books on learning the basics of witchcraft cover things like how to cast a circle, the symbolism of the elements, honouring the goddess and god, and seasonal rites to celebrate the Wheel of the Year. That is all you really need to know to get started, but more and more witches - particularly solitary practitioners without the training structure of a Wiccan coven - are looking for material going further.
The Deep Heart of Witchcraft: Expanding the Core of Magickal Practiceassumes you already know how to cast a circle and probably have a bit of experience of taking part in rituals. It looks at core aspects of witchcraft - the elements, the gods and ways to use the power of the seasons for personal transformation - but in much greater depth than beginners' books. I would call it intermediate level. You really do need to know the basics and be able to manipulate magical energy before being able to attempt some of the workings in this book. A long section deals with working with death, both contacting those who have died and coming to terms with our own inevitable death. For Wiccans, that kind of magic isn't normally tackled until long after initiation.
Publisher Moon Books also says: "In The Deep Heart of Witchcraft, we seek the teachings and ways that might lead us to look beyond the surface and into the depths of the Craft. In this book, we’ll look at the tools and spirits of the sacred elements to connect us back to the power of nature. Through ritual, we turn and face traditions both new and old to enrich our practice and feed the soul."
The author, David Salisbury, is a highly experienced Wiccan practitioner based in America. He is also a very good teacher and his writing style is clear and easy to follow even when he tackles complex issues and highly esoteric concepts. The Deep Heart of Witchcraft came out in April and it took me most of last month to read it - it is a long book. But I've enjoyed it and learned a few things from it even though I've been a witch for decades. The publicist was right, it is a good one. ~ Lucya, www.badwitch.co.uk
Shaman Pathways - The Celtic Chakras
Elen Sentier
I have been asked a great deal about how I understand the title "Shaman". Im no expert at all! How I see it is: The Spirits call the "Shaman". I do not feel we label ourselves such after a workshop or a trip to foreign land. That is why most who practice Shamanic Healings call themselves Shamanic Practitioners. They are practising Shamanic practices. The word Shaman comes from the Tungus language. To take this name is often seen as an appropriation of an indigenous word and sometimes customs also. The "Shamans" of this land were often called Spirit Keepers- Awennyd. So we have no need to take the terms of other lands if we wish to give ourselves a title. We have enough terms here in this land. And a strong tradition of working Shamanically also. Worth checking out Elen Sentier's work on this. She explains a great deal in "Elen of the Ways" about the practices of this ancient land. For me- authenticity is the key here- always. What the Spirits ask one does. Should the Spirits demand we label ourselves, give ourselves a title- so be it. Should they leave it to us- then authenticity is the key for me.
from Aneya Awen: at sacredspacehealing.org
Owner at Sacred Healing London ~ Aneya Awen, Owner at Sacred Healing London
Shaman Pathways - The Celtic Chakras
Elen Sentier
I've just done the meditation following my chakras and it makes so much more sense, thank you it's a really interesting read ~ Val Stanton , Celtic chakras FB page
Shaman Pathways - The Celtic Chakras
Elen Sentier
The way that you present the Chakras makes so much more sense to me than the way I was taught. That everything connects in that "swirl" pattern - it just clicked in my brain AND in my chakras!!! Thank you so much for this book and information.
Yesterday at 21:12
~ Judi Charlton, Celtic Chakras FB page
Shaman Pathways - Elen of the Ways
Elen Sentier
Elen of the Ways is a poignant invitation to walk the Earth as our ancestors have from time immemorial - with senses and heart wide open to the hidden relationships of the land; to the beauty, life and intelligence all around us. I love this book! ~ Llyn Roberts, LlynRoberts.com & EarthWisdomCircle.org
Pagan Portals - Zen Druidry
Joanna van der Hoeven
An excellent book! The premise of this Pagan Portals volume is that "Zen teachings and Druidry can combine to create a peaceful life path that is completely and utterly dedicated to the here and now, to the earth and her rhythms, and to the flow that is life itself."
To begin, the author gives a brief yet comprehensive overview of Zen Buddhism (while pointing out that the precepts of Zen need not be associated with a particular religious tradition) and Druidry. Her simple and eloquent writing style is well-suited to her topic, and gave me a more holistic view of the basic tenets of each system.
She goes on to illustrate how Zen practices such as meditation fit well with living a life attuned to the seasons of the earth. Rather than going through the motions of ritual at particular times of the year, Druids (and other Pagans) can learn to listen deeply to what is happening at each moment. Van der Hoeven describes how celebrating the eight Sabbats of the Druid year can be enhanced with the ethical practices of the Eightfold Path of Zen.
She also details how the practice of Druidry, or I would add, any earth-based spiritual path, can be enriched through the use of mindfulness meditation and present-moment awareness. Being a Druid is all about relationship, and when you are living in the moment, aware of all that is going on around you, you're much more able to be open to authentic relationships of all types: with nature, with other people, and with yourself.
After reading this book, I realized what a perfect and harmonious union these two systems create. It's common sense, really. In my own eclectic Pagan practice, and thanks to my yoga teachers, I've embraced much Buddhist philosophy. I have frequently used the practice of mindfulness as part of my regular spiritual practice. Yet seeing the two laid out side by side in this book has helped me see the bigger picture of how they intertwine, one supporting the other. I highly recommend reading this short yet profound homage to the blending of Druidry and Zen, and implementing it in your own spiritual practice. ~ Nikki Shields
Pagan Portals - God-Speaking
Judith O'Grady
I really didn't know what to expect from this one...written from the perspective of an Animist and believer in many Gods it is a gloriously wonderful book all about BELIEF.
The author takes you on a journey through pagan history, belief in god, worship and the ritual that accompanies it ending with a reflection on belief in the modern day.
It will open your mind and challenge your views and perception of belief and the divine - a book to kick start the grey cells into action and a must have on everyone's book shelf. ~ Rachel Patterson, Kitchen Witch -- www.rachelspaganbookblog.blogspot.co.uk
Spiritual Runes, The
Harmonia Saille
An extremely detailed book, packed with information covering every aspect of the runes from the author's own personal experiences of learning and working with them.
Loads of background and history, along with the mythology behind them. Then the practical elements of how to connect with them including detailed exercises followed by all the meanings and the psychology and cosmology that links with them.
This book also includes instructions for making your own set, how to inscribe, purify and empower them. Lots of suggestions for casting and reading them along with ideas for working rune magic.
I can't imagine any other book on runes would cover so much about them. ~ Rachel Patterson, Kitchen Witch
Where the Hawthorn Grows
Morgan Daimler
This is a personal journey through reconstruction Druidism drawing on ancient stories, beliefs and the heart and soul of druidry. Jam packed with interesting and unusual information and some interesting customs that I hadn't heard of before.
It has a very interesting section on healing deities along with fascinating chapters on spirits of the land, ancestors, detailed celebrations, life passages (which you don't often see in books) and a section on folk magic, one on Seidr work, community and sacred tattooing which I was pleasantly surprised to find too.
Whether you are a druid, witch, pagan or otherwise this is definitely an interesting book to have and one that I am sure you will read from cover to cover and re-read, I know I will!
~ Rachel Patterson, Kitchen Witch, www.rachelspaganbookblog.blogspot.co.uk
Pagan Portals - Kitchen Witchcraft
Rachel Patterson
I am simply in love with this book. Rachel Patterson, kitchen witch divine, has excellently written this as an absolute essential in any modern Pagan's life. Instead of complicated spells, expensive tools and hard-to-find herbs, you will find that almost everything is already in your kitchen -- and if it's not, it's just one trip away to your local natural food store.
This is a wonderful introduction to the everyday life of a witch, and for anyone who would prefer to use natural products in their home instead of chemicals. With the way she writes it, I felt as though I was sitting across the table from her, drinking a cup of tea!
From kitchen essentials, cleansing rituals, information on the traditions, foods, and traditional foods and colours information of the Sabbats, plus candle magic and meditations, this book is amazing. I love how she shows the easiest way to incorporate little bits of magick from cooking to cleaning!
I will be referencing this book for many moons to come, that's for sure! ~ Mary, www.sweetmaplelife.blogspot.co.uk
Pagan Portals - Kitchen Witchcraft
Rachel Patterson
New find by Rachel Patterson: Pagan Portals Kitchen Witchcraft. I ordered it as a Kindle Edition but might even by it as a book as well. There are many recipes I would like to try and keeping track with the kindle seems more complicated then simply bookmarking the page in a proper book. The good thing is that this lady is UK based. I have made the mistake many times in the past and bought US books with ingredients that were not familiar to me. I am 80% through the book and enjoyed it, with a very down to earth approach and simple. ~ M, www.craftywitchshop.wordpress.com
Pagan Portals - Kitchen Witchcraft
Rachel Patterson
Has a complete novice I found this book very informative , inspiring and simple to follow. Written like you are sitting down with a friend. Rachel proves that you can make use of the simplest of objects to transform your kitchen into a magical environment. I had know idea that the simplest of objects rattling around in my cupboard could be do useful for more than just baking . Now planning my first spell x
~ Babywitch, Amazon
Traditional Witchcraft and the Pagan Revival
Suzanne Ruthven
“The ‘Traditional Witchcraft’ series provides varied information about what it means to be a practising witch in modern times. In places, it feels like a guide, or self-help book. But there is much more to it than that. What strikes me is the amount of science running through the book. To understand nature is to live as a part of nature, and ultimately to become one with its changing patterns and cycles, to synchronise one’s own psychic or magical energy with natural tidal forces and the elements. So a witch, like no other religious practitioner that I’m aware of, must study her environment carefully, and attune her life to it… The learning is multi-disciplinary, and feels almost as if one was studying a textbook written by a poet…it has that sense of quiet wonder about it, supported by education, knowledge and, above all, wisdom.” ~ Andy Lloyd Book Reviews
Pagan Portals - God-Speaking
Judith O'Grady
A lot of Pagans talk about listening to the Gods, but when asked if they mean that literally, get all metaphorical. Of course we don’t really hear voices. That would be insane. The trouble is that we live in a culture that pathologizes religious experience. The result being that most Pagans either very carefully aren’t hearing voices, will have ways of pretending they aren’t bat-shit crazy, or just won’t talk about the heart of their practice. And of course there are the odd crazy ones as well, for good measure. Judith O’Grady takes the bull by the horns in this striking little book. It’s a serious look at what deity means, what it means to listen, what the social implications are and how you strike that balance between hearing something, and not going insane. I’d rather like every Pagan out there to buy and read this one, alongside every mental health practitioner… actually truth be told I’d like everyone to read it. This is a rare and valuable piece of work, and I hope it will give other people the courage to be more open about what they do, and to think more about what it means to be a modern Pagan.
Having said this is a serious book, I’d like to add that it’s also one of the funniest books I’ve read in a while. I laughed out loud. The wit and lightness of touch Judith brings to her subject matter makes it very easy to take some big ideas onboard. It’s an extremely readable piece of work, full of wisdom, insight and compassion. Highly recommended. ~ Nimue Brown, Druid Network
Pagan Portals - Hedge Riding
Harmonia Saille
Hedge Riding offers a quick, clean read on a lesser-known practice in witchcraft. Harmonia Saille writes in a personable, accessible manner as she answers questions about Hedge Riding, such as “what happens when you encounter a dark entity?” and the etiquette of working with spirits.
This title from Moon Book’s Pagan Portals series is one of the first four titles released that offer introductions to rarely covered topics in Paganism.
Hedge Witchcraft practitioners that engage with other magical people sometimes speak of a sense of isolation, a common price of following a solitary path. Saille fills this gap in one small way with her brief overview to one of the most advanced practices in Hedge Witchcraft.
http://facingnorth.net/Witchcraft/hedge-riding.html ~ Diana Rajchel, Facing North
