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lovelylloyd's review against another edition
informative
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
4.5
The Witch of the Forest's Guide to Natural Magick and Month 2 of Lovely Lloyd Living by Life-changing Literature.
So for February I attempted to live by the book - Succeeding with Adult ADHD. You probably saw the elaborate sticker collection that I now own 😅. This was a heavy text with a lot of goal setting and actioning. It was helpful. Probably the best thing I learnt was that if a concept or strategy works for a bit but stops being effective, you aren't failing. You just park it, try something else and come back to it in a couple of weeks
Soooooo after a very detail oriented month I decided to try an easy read for March. At least that is what I thought until I dug a little deeper. This is a beautiful book, the content is very basic and informative. I think the actual written content would only be able thirty pages but the illustrations are so beautiful and give it a gorgeous coffee table book vibe.
It is noted in the book in relation to a few issues of cultural appropriation, particularly of first nations peoples practice of smudging.
But I don't think that it touches enough on the relationship between witchcraft, colonisation and continuing white supremacy to profit off these. I will continue to do some research as I work with this book and see how we go.
So for February I attempted to live by the book - Succeeding with Adult ADHD. You probably saw the elaborate sticker collection that I now own 😅. This was a heavy text with a lot of goal setting and actioning. It was helpful. Probably the best thing I learnt was that if a concept or strategy works for a bit but stops being effective, you aren't failing. You just park it, try something else and come back to it in a couple of weeks
Soooooo after a very detail oriented month I decided to try an easy read for March. At least that is what I thought until I dug a little deeper. This is a beautiful book, the content is very basic and informative. I think the actual written content would only be able thirty pages but the illustrations are so beautiful and give it a gorgeous coffee table book vibe.
It is noted in the book in relation to a few issues of cultural appropriation, particularly of first nations peoples practice of smudging.
But I don't think that it touches enough on the relationship between witchcraft, colonisation and continuing white supremacy to profit off these. I will continue to do some research as I work with this book and see how we go.
nana_anastasiya's review against another edition
4.0
È un libro prevalentemente indicato per neofiti.
Tocca davvero tantissimi punti: incantesimi, intenzione, fasi lunari, la ruota dell'anno, divinazione, erbe, ecc.
Non amo particolarmente libri di questo genere, perché preferisco approfondimenti sugli argomenti, e per il numero di argomenti trattati da questo libro, sarebbe un po' difficile entrare le dettaglio. Quindi rimaniamo con poche nozioni per argomento.
Nella parte iniziale è un po' confusionario con la spiegazione di alcuni termini.
È molto a stampo new age.
Non amo particolarmente questo genere di libri dove la magia è tutta rose e fiori.
Se ci limitiamo però a prenderlo come spunto per argomenti da approfondire ed integrare, può essere utile a chi è alle prime armi.
La grafica è molto piacevole.
La lettura scorrevole.
Tocca davvero tantissimi punti: incantesimi, intenzione, fasi lunari, la ruota dell'anno, divinazione, erbe, ecc.
Non amo particolarmente libri di questo genere, perché preferisco approfondimenti sugli argomenti, e per il numero di argomenti trattati da questo libro, sarebbe un po' difficile entrare le dettaglio. Quindi rimaniamo con poche nozioni per argomento.
Nella parte iniziale è un po' confusionario con la spiegazione di alcuni termini.
È molto a stampo new age.
Non amo particolarmente questo genere di libri dove la magia è tutta rose e fiori.
Se ci limitiamo però a prenderlo come spunto per argomenti da approfondire ed integrare, può essere utile a chi è alle prime armi.
La grafica è molto piacevole.
La lettura scorrevole.
iaracarvao's review against another edition
informative
inspiring
relaxing
fast-paced
5.0
incrivel, extremamente informativo, direto, simples sem faltar conteudo. perfeito. quero ler mais da autora.
librobi's review against another edition
3.0
*Ebook noleggiato da Amazon Prime*
Un libro molto interessante, un piccolo corso intensivo per principianti. Esteticamente è molto carino con tanti disegni e schemi molto belli e utili, ma necessita urgentemente di una revisione accurata. Ripetizioni e refusi tolgono molto al valore del libro, che per me non vale quello che costa.
Sicuramente 5 stelle dal punto di vista estetico e pratico.
Un libro molto interessante, un piccolo corso intensivo per principianti. Esteticamente è molto carino con tanti disegni e schemi molto belli e utili, ma necessita urgentemente di una revisione accurata. Ripetizioni e refusi tolgono molto al valore del libro, che per me non vale quello che costa.
Sicuramente 5 stelle dal punto di vista estetico e pratico.
opheliafeyre's review against another edition
4.0
Book Review: 'The Witch of the Forest’s Guide to Natural Magick' by Lindsay Squire.
Illustrator: Viki Lester
Genre: Witchcraft / Religion and Spirituality
Publisher: Leaping Hare Press / Quarto
Release Date: 21st September, 2021
Book was gifted in exchange for a review.
About the Author and Illustrator
Lindsay Squire considers herself to be an Eclectic Witch practicing traditional Witchcraft for over a decade. She lives in Yorkshire, in the UK. Which is exciting for me because I’m also a Yorkshire Witch. She is passionate about helping and empowering Witches at the beginning of their journeys. Lindsay is the person behind the popular Witchcraft instagram account @thewitchoftheforest which offers helpful infographics about different aspects of the Craft.
Viki Lester, also known as Forensics and Flowers, is the illustrator behind the beautiful cover and images throughout the book. She is from London. Her work is described as, inspiring people to feel magical, and features positivity with a dark botanical twist. She has illustrated lots of other books swell and I love her artistic style. It is the perfect Witchy aesthetic!
About the Book
The blurb says,
“Whether you’re an out-and-proud witch in progress, or a witch in the broom closet, this spellbinding beginner’s book will teach you everything you need to know to connect with your natural magick.
Guided by The Witch of the Forest, this magickal introduction to getting started in the Craft, is overflowing with simple spells, tips, tricks, and rituals - all using simple tools and ingredients that you can find in your cupboards or from foraging.
Discover the abundance of magick to be found in the natural world and release your power. Learn how to use magick to change your life, and embrace the modern witching hour.”
The book features lots of information for getting started in the Craft, using Witchcraft for self-care and well-being, the wheel of the year, the moon and nature, spellcraft, colour and candle magick, herbs, divination and sigils. All of the things you would expect to find in a book for beginners.
My Thoughts
This is the ultimate book for people who are just starting on their Witchcraft journey. As soon as I started reading the opening, which is about exploring beginner questions or ‘things to know’, I knew it would be reassuring and perfect for people who might be feeling overwhelmed with where to start.
Lindsay talks about learning and reading; using your own initiative to research. This is the best advice for beginners and it’s how I started. People may disagree, but I think this is the only place to start; with reading and research. If you don’t like the sound of that, then maybe Witchcraft is not the path for you. I know that might seem harsh, but with all learning there’s going to be some research and reading involved. I know there are people out there that just don’t get along with that way of learning, and you might be someone who dislikes reading. But, ironically, this book might be good for those people who are not big readers. It is extremely visual. There are lots of images and diagrams. Anything that is said in the longer sections of text is broken down into key points and illustrated. It’s very accessible for non-readers.
I think the visual, infographic style is one of the reasons that Lindsay’s, The Witch of the Forest Instagram account has done so well. If you follow her, you will be familiar with this style and if you like it, then you will enjoy the book because it follows a very similar style.
The book is beautifully organised and presented, with most of it being a page per topic. It takes a very traditional stance on the Craft, but makes it clear that you can deviate from this, making sure to follow your own intuition and following a path that’s right for you.
It covers all of the foundational elements that you need to know, and that will eventually become second nature. For example, the elements, and their correspondence to the cardinal directions. It then links them to colours and eventually you’ll start to understand what elements work best for different kinds of magick. One thing that I really appreciated was the idea that tools are not necessary and that ‘intent’ is the main tool you will need. It is a huge part of the Craft. Everything else: tools, ingredients, crystals they just compliment your intentions.
There are some more in-depth sections on the wheel of the year, the Sabbats and working with the phases of the moon. As well as an explanation of the meaning of the Sabbats and why we celebrate them, it provides you with ideas of what you can do to honour and celebrate each festival. It even does this for Witches in the 'broom closet'; providing more low-key and subtle things to do. A little note: Lammas and Beltane are the wrong way round on the image of the wheel, but this is something that can be overlooked because they are the right way round in the later pages.
I loved the little section about ‘eco witchcraft.’ All Witches should aim to be as eco friendly as possible. As Lindsay says in the book, “it’s counterproductive to harm the very power you want to work with.” I feel like that perfectly sums up what a Witches view of nature and the planet should be. Witchcraft is an Earth based, nature based, Craft so it’s an unwritten rule that we need to look after the planet.
Another really great section was spell craft for beginners. It covers all of the basic, yet important information about spellwork. Lindsay refers to some ‘common mistakes’ that people may make when it comes to spellwork, but it’s just really good advice about creating good spells and managing expectations. For example, you can’t just cast a spell and expect that it will work - there’s more to it than that. This section will really help to ensure you get the best results from your spellwork. It also looks at different spell types; sprays, jars, pouches, teas etc. You can cast spells that don’t involve creating something physical. It can be more of a performative action. So don’t limit yourself to just these types of magick.
In terms of presenting a balanced review here are my nit picks, and they are nit picks. Firstly, some of the pages are a gloss black and they pick up finger marks really easily, which is a little annoying. I don’t like it when I get marks on my books! But like i said, nit picks.
The information on grimoires and books of shadows was slightly disappointing. It’s good as it explores the distinction between the two, but there are no specific examples of how to go about setting up or organising one. There are some ideas of what to include, but I know some people would prefer more guidance, especially with things like journaling in your Grimoire. Also this is one of the only sections that doesn’t provide a visual example.
The author mentions that deities are not a part of her personal Craft, but she does talk about how they fit in, particularly within a Pagan or Wiccan path. When I first started, deities were not a part of my practice - it just didn’t feel right. However, as my Craft evolved a space became available for them. If you think that deities are going to be a part of your practice then you will probably need other resources to find out how to incorporate them into your practice.
Another thing I would like to have seen is a specific section about 'grounding'. I think it would have fitted in nicely with the other topics covered. There is information about cleansing, and I think cleansing and grounding compliment each other. Grounding is mentioned a few times within the book, but as there is no detail about what it is or guidance of how to do it, then it could be a little confusing for some people. However, it’s something you can easily go away and research.
Final Thoughts
This book is perfect for beginners. That is the point of the book, but it genuinely is a great place to start - especially for learning about traditional Witchcraft in a modern world. It includes everything you would hope to find in a Witchcraft book for beginners and leaves space for you to go away and develop areas of interest.
If you are a seasoned Witch then you will already know a lot of the information within the book. But I still enjoyed it. The information was presented in such a lovely way, through images and diagrams. For me it was very reaffirming of a lot of my Witchcraft knowledge and for newbies it would not be over-whelming.
I mentioned this earlier, but I think it’s worth saying again. It’s a really accessible book. It’s in no way ‘gatekeepy’ or ‘preachy’. Lindsay is an authoritative voice on the topic, obviously due to her experience, but she comes across as a friendly guide or mentor. I definitely think it is one of the better beginner books.
Illustrator: Viki Lester
Genre: Witchcraft / Religion and Spirituality
Publisher: Leaping Hare Press / Quarto
Release Date: 21st September, 2021
Book was gifted in exchange for a review.
About the Author and Illustrator
Lindsay Squire considers herself to be an Eclectic Witch practicing traditional Witchcraft for over a decade. She lives in Yorkshire, in the UK. Which is exciting for me because I’m also a Yorkshire Witch. She is passionate about helping and empowering Witches at the beginning of their journeys. Lindsay is the person behind the popular Witchcraft instagram account @thewitchoftheforest which offers helpful infographics about different aspects of the Craft.
Viki Lester, also known as Forensics and Flowers, is the illustrator behind the beautiful cover and images throughout the book. She is from London. Her work is described as, inspiring people to feel magical, and features positivity with a dark botanical twist. She has illustrated lots of other books swell and I love her artistic style. It is the perfect Witchy aesthetic!
About the Book
The blurb says,
“Whether you’re an out-and-proud witch in progress, or a witch in the broom closet, this spellbinding beginner’s book will teach you everything you need to know to connect with your natural magick.
Guided by The Witch of the Forest, this magickal introduction to getting started in the Craft, is overflowing with simple spells, tips, tricks, and rituals - all using simple tools and ingredients that you can find in your cupboards or from foraging.
Discover the abundance of magick to be found in the natural world and release your power. Learn how to use magick to change your life, and embrace the modern witching hour.”
The book features lots of information for getting started in the Craft, using Witchcraft for self-care and well-being, the wheel of the year, the moon and nature, spellcraft, colour and candle magick, herbs, divination and sigils. All of the things you would expect to find in a book for beginners.
My Thoughts
This is the ultimate book for people who are just starting on their Witchcraft journey. As soon as I started reading the opening, which is about exploring beginner questions or ‘things to know’, I knew it would be reassuring and perfect for people who might be feeling overwhelmed with where to start.
Lindsay talks about learning and reading; using your own initiative to research. This is the best advice for beginners and it’s how I started. People may disagree, but I think this is the only place to start; with reading and research. If you don’t like the sound of that, then maybe Witchcraft is not the path for you. I know that might seem harsh, but with all learning there’s going to be some research and reading involved. I know there are people out there that just don’t get along with that way of learning, and you might be someone who dislikes reading. But, ironically, this book might be good for those people who are not big readers. It is extremely visual. There are lots of images and diagrams. Anything that is said in the longer sections of text is broken down into key points and illustrated. It’s very accessible for non-readers.
I think the visual, infographic style is one of the reasons that Lindsay’s, The Witch of the Forest Instagram account has done so well. If you follow her, you will be familiar with this style and if you like it, then you will enjoy the book because it follows a very similar style.
The book is beautifully organised and presented, with most of it being a page per topic. It takes a very traditional stance on the Craft, but makes it clear that you can deviate from this, making sure to follow your own intuition and following a path that’s right for you.
It covers all of the foundational elements that you need to know, and that will eventually become second nature. For example, the elements, and their correspondence to the cardinal directions. It then links them to colours and eventually you’ll start to understand what elements work best for different kinds of magick. One thing that I really appreciated was the idea that tools are not necessary and that ‘intent’ is the main tool you will need. It is a huge part of the Craft. Everything else: tools, ingredients, crystals they just compliment your intentions.
There are some more in-depth sections on the wheel of the year, the Sabbats and working with the phases of the moon. As well as an explanation of the meaning of the Sabbats and why we celebrate them, it provides you with ideas of what you can do to honour and celebrate each festival. It even does this for Witches in the 'broom closet'; providing more low-key and subtle things to do. A little note: Lammas and Beltane are the wrong way round on the image of the wheel, but this is something that can be overlooked because they are the right way round in the later pages.
I loved the little section about ‘eco witchcraft.’ All Witches should aim to be as eco friendly as possible. As Lindsay says in the book, “it’s counterproductive to harm the very power you want to work with.” I feel like that perfectly sums up what a Witches view of nature and the planet should be. Witchcraft is an Earth based, nature based, Craft so it’s an unwritten rule that we need to look after the planet.
Another really great section was spell craft for beginners. It covers all of the basic, yet important information about spellwork. Lindsay refers to some ‘common mistakes’ that people may make when it comes to spellwork, but it’s just really good advice about creating good spells and managing expectations. For example, you can’t just cast a spell and expect that it will work - there’s more to it than that. This section will really help to ensure you get the best results from your spellwork. It also looks at different spell types; sprays, jars, pouches, teas etc. You can cast spells that don’t involve creating something physical. It can be more of a performative action. So don’t limit yourself to just these types of magick.
In terms of presenting a balanced review here are my nit picks, and they are nit picks. Firstly, some of the pages are a gloss black and they pick up finger marks really easily, which is a little annoying. I don’t like it when I get marks on my books! But like i said, nit picks.
The information on grimoires and books of shadows was slightly disappointing. It’s good as it explores the distinction between the two, but there are no specific examples of how to go about setting up or organising one. There are some ideas of what to include, but I know some people would prefer more guidance, especially with things like journaling in your Grimoire. Also this is one of the only sections that doesn’t provide a visual example.
The author mentions that deities are not a part of her personal Craft, but she does talk about how they fit in, particularly within a Pagan or Wiccan path. When I first started, deities were not a part of my practice - it just didn’t feel right. However, as my Craft evolved a space became available for them. If you think that deities are going to be a part of your practice then you will probably need other resources to find out how to incorporate them into your practice.
Another thing I would like to have seen is a specific section about 'grounding'. I think it would have fitted in nicely with the other topics covered. There is information about cleansing, and I think cleansing and grounding compliment each other. Grounding is mentioned a few times within the book, but as there is no detail about what it is or guidance of how to do it, then it could be a little confusing for some people. However, it’s something you can easily go away and research.
Final Thoughts
This book is perfect for beginners. That is the point of the book, but it genuinely is a great place to start - especially for learning about traditional Witchcraft in a modern world. It includes everything you would hope to find in a Witchcraft book for beginners and leaves space for you to go away and develop areas of interest.
If you are a seasoned Witch then you will already know a lot of the information within the book. But I still enjoyed it. The information was presented in such a lovely way, through images and diagrams. For me it was very reaffirming of a lot of my Witchcraft knowledge and for newbies it would not be over-whelming.
I mentioned this earlier, but I think it’s worth saying again. It’s a really accessible book. It’s in no way ‘gatekeepy’ or ‘preachy’. Lindsay is an authoritative voice on the topic, obviously due to her experience, but she comes across as a friendly guide or mentor. I definitely think it is one of the better beginner books.