Product Description

A down-to-earth introduction to Witchcraft that gives plenty of practical advice on becoming a wiccan. Whether you want to join a group or work as a Solitary this is an invaluable guide to the wiccan lifestyle. The chapters will include: / Myth and Reality -- what being a witch is all about, how it compares with the Hollywood image / What Witchcraft is -- the beliefs and practices / Moon worship, the elements, Gods and Goddesses, the cycles of death and rebirth / The Sabbats and the Wheel of the Year / Becoming a Witch -- what does it involve? / Magic -- how it works and the responsibilites involved. How to avoid potential danger / Spellcraft -- how to help you pass exams, attract partners, improve family relationships / Herbal work -- herbs for skin, hair, scents, traditional recipes / How to tell your family and how to make contact with groups and other teenage Wiccans

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #26394 in Books
• Published on: 2001-02-05
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 176 pages

Amazon.co.uk Review
Some books on being a witch seem trivial, more about fashion than faith, slightly dubious. Others ring out with authority. Kate West's The Real Witches' Handbook is in the second category. West has been a witch for over thirty years, is high priestess of her own group of covens and, in a wider context, is former vice president and media coordinator of the well-respected Pagan Federation. She knows what she's talking about.

West's book is simple, straightforward and down to earth. She describes what witchcraft is actually about, what witches believe and what they do, and how to make the first steps, whether on your own or with others. She emphasises throughout that this is a spiritual path, and is careful to correct common misunderstandings and to avoid any sensationalism.

Although witchcraft, Wicca or the Craft is growing rapidly, and is gaining more acceptance in wider society, many people are still uneasy about it, for all sorts of reasons. West suggests caution and common sense in letting others know that you're a witch, even providing a sample letter as an example of how to explain your beliefs to concerned friends.

While this book is written for anyone interested in becoming a witch, West is clearly aware of the growing interest of teenagers in witchcraft. She is very firm about saying that most reputable covens will not accept anyone under 18, and provides guidance on where to go for further information. This is one of the most sound and sensible introductory books on becoming and being a witch, and is highly recommended. --David V Barrett

From the Publisher
A down-to-earth introduction to Witchcraft that gives plenty of practical advice on becoming a wiccan. Whether you want to join a group or work as a Solitary this is an invaluable guide to the wiccan lifestyle.

The chapters include:
* Myth and Reality – what being a witch is all about, how it compares with the Hollywood image
* What Witchcraft is – the beliefs and practices
* Moon worship, the elements, Gods and Goddesses, the cycles of death and rebirth
* The Sabbats and the Wheel of the Year
* Becoming a Witch – what does it involve?
* Magic – how it works and the responsibilites involved. How to avoid potential danger
* Spellcraft – how to help you pass exams, attract partners, improve family relationships
* Herbal work – herbs for skin, hair, scents, traditional recipes
* How to tell your family and how to make contact with groups and other teenage Wiccans

About the Author
Kate West is the author of The Real Witches' Handbook and The Real Witches' Kitchen. She is Media Officer for The Children of Artemis and High Priestess of the Hearth of Hecate, which runs a popular email support and enquiry service for Witches around the world. A practising Wiccan for over 30 years, she has excellent international contacts.

Customer Reviews

Magick.....quite literally!!!!
Although I am not Wiccan and would consider this book to be it was filled with useful information as well as aesethetically pleasing, but most of all extremely easy to read!!!

Kate West is so arcticulate and excellent at expressing herself, you could literally give this book to a child to read, (although it is not a childrens book)!. It is aimed at an absolute beginner and doesnt assume that you have any previous knowledge of the craft, its like "back to basics" if you like, and you may just find that you are re-educated in some ways!!

Although Kate West is definitely Wiccan, and I am on a Traditional Witchcraft path I could not recommend this book highly enough, and I intend to read more from this author in the very near future!

Interesting, practical and incredibly useful for teenagers
This book is affordable and incredibly practical. Kate West truly knows that for some people it can be difficult to follow an alternative religion with a poor reputation. The book takes this into account and gives many suggestions for solitary witches living in an environment where it may be dificult to express true opinions - say if your parents are commited Christians!

The book is aimed at teenagers, but does not try and force anyone to do anything they don't want to do. The book is a gentle, inciteful read, which opens your mind. It is not like other books on the Craft which state you must do this and you must do that. West allows readers to develop their skills and to make an informed decision. It makes a delightful read - with no pressure on readers

Fantastic Introduction for ALL
I've had this book for many years and I'm a 30 something young woman, who wanted to learn more about Witch Craft through curiosity. I don't belong to any faith but am very spiritual. I found this book insightful and beautifully written. If you're a High Priestess or Priest then this book would most defiantly left you wanting. However, as an introduction to the curious I really can't fault it. It's provided comfort in it teachings, and a sense of belonging in its philosophies. I think most people that read this book will take something from it even if they choose not to embrace the faith. It's very positive and as a result, without wanting to gush, I have made very positive changes to my life. I found the Chapter where she discussed to concept of bad luck very enlightening. There is much, much more to Witch Craft than this book has to offer, but as an introduction is absolutely perfect. Enjoy.