A Tree in Your Pocket

by Jacqueline Memory Paterson

Be inspired by the myth, magic and wisdom of trees with this beautifully illustrated pocket book.

Genres: Nature

Paperback

First published October 15, 1999

Reviews

[John Anthony · Rating 4 out of 5]

Contents:

1. The English Yew
2. The Hollywood
3. The Pine
4. The Hazel
5. The Blackthorn
6. The Silver Birch
7. The Apple Tree (focus on Crab Apple)
8. The Hawthorn Tree
9. The Ash Tree
10. The Oak Tree
11. The English Elm
12. The Beech Tree
13. The Rowan Tree
14. The Alder
15. The Willow Tree
16. The Poplar Trees
Conclusion

A gem of a book which I have enjoyed hugely

Each “chapter” begins with the particular tree’s Irish/Gaelic name, then the Ogham symbol, followed by the Runic, The Tree’s Ruling Planet, The tree’s abilities and its season(s). Something of its context within England follows, its history, origin/native region. Then there is a section on Custom and Legend’ surrounding the tree, its Healing Abilities, Magic and Inspiration and finally its Physical Uses.

I learnt a great deal from this little book and was reminded of things I had half forgotten. There’s so much of interest here and it will live on the reference shelves where I’m sure I’ll often dip into it again.

It seemed very appropriate that I was reading this in the middle of an election campaign. Yesterday the Politicos were vying with each other as to who would plant most trees if elected.

I’ll leave the last word to the author, taken from her concluding paragraph:

“It is by our waking up to understand that the earth comes first, for it is our home and provider of life. It is by accepting that we are but one species of a vast array of life-forms and that we do not rule. It is by acknowledging that we are utterly dependent upon the other forms that dwell beside us and the communication that we open up with them. Closest to us are the animals, then come the trees. They await communication and are willing to share their magic, for it is the key to our identity and the future of the earth.”
4*

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

A curious little book. I enjoyed it.

[Sophie Crane · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a nice book. Loads of info on types of trees, detailed descriptions and ancient meanings.

[Patricia Herlevi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was complaining that I would never be able to read 8 books per month given my schedule (to meet my Good Reads Challenge) then I was introduced to this short book on trees. I had forgotten how much I enjoy engaging with pagan concepts and teachings so reading this pocket guide provided a treat.

This book reminded me of my connection to birch trees which has come up a lot for me in recent months.

While Jacqueline Memory Paterson mainly covers trees in Europe, the lore/legends, healing powers, and magical uses, I became enamored with the trees in my Pacific Northwest US region. If you want to get to know trees, I recommend this guide.