Those who seek knowledge of history on this topic will not be disappointed. This book is by no means light reading. Every page is packed with historic information that was obviously thoroughly researched. The book begins as far back as written history can reach and reaches as far forward as present day. There is a somewhat heavier emphasis on the witch-craze that began in continental Europe and ended in the N.A. colonies, but the periods before and after the witch-craze are thorough.
I was impressed with the balance of lack-of-bias and entertainment the author delivered. They did a rather good job at presenting a lot of information and very little opinion, yet the writing style flowed well and did not have a dull 'textbook' feel, so to speak. Furthermore the history presented is more than historical facts, dates and pronouns. The book is littered with summaries of stories, some of which are rather interesting for better or worse, and also strewn throughout are black-and-white images and photos.
There were some surprises for me throughout the book, as well. There are certain aspects of modern witchcraft that have been a little distorted, especially in common presentation of Wicca, and the author set about to present the facts available, while rarely making broad claims. It is clear that the author had no intention of trying to 'disenchant' the religion, as they also include a lot of interesting and almost endearing facts about the development of Wicca that are not commonly mentioned. Ultimately the reader is left to take the available information and draw their own conclusions. I would highly recommend this book not only to those with an interest in history, but also to those with an interest in neopaganism, Wicca or simply the practice of witchcraft in whatever form or path they choose. The history may have been twisted a little here and there, but it is still quite charming and valid in the movement's desires.
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Hard to rate
I want so very much to read this book again. Alas, my eyes at age 30 are now my eyes of someone in her 70s.The font is small but what is exasperating is the unreadable guttering by the printer.The pic is me trying to spread the pages apart.
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Constantin Marian Valentin
The item arrived damaged
Reviewed in the Netherlands on May 30, 2020
Constantin Marian Valentin
Reviewed in the Netherlands on May 30, 2020
After having to put up with a horrible experience with DHL I also had the surprise of discovering that the book has multiple defects. The covers have scratches all over and the corners are ripped and folded. The description doesn't state that the book has been owned before, therefore I was expecting a new book. This is definitely not one and thus I am very unsatisfied with the seller.
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Essential read for witchcraft enthusiasts
Reviewed in Germany on November 9, 2019
