DruidCraft: The Magic of Wicca & Druidry

by Philip Carr-Gomm, Vivianne Crowley (Introduction)

Druidry and Wicca are the two great streams of Western Pagan tradition. Both traditions are experiencing a renaissance all over the world, as more and more people seek a spirituality rooted in a love of nature and the land. Increasingly, readers are combining the ideas of both traditions to craft their own spiritual practice. In this down-to-earth, inspiring guide, Philip Carr-Gomm offers a name for this Path that draws on the common beliefs and practices of Wicca and Druidry: DruidCraft. DruidCraft draws on the traditions of scholarship, storytelling, magical craft and seasonal celebration of both the Craft and Druidry to offer inspiration, teachings, rituals, and magical techniques that can help you access your innate powers of creativity, intuition and healing.

Genres: Paganism, Wicca, Witchcraft, Religion, Spirituality, Nonfiction, Magic

134 pages, Paperback

First published September 5, 2002

About the author

Philip Carr-Gomm was born in London, raised in Notting Hill Gate, and educated at Westminster School and University College London.

He met his first spiritual teacher, Ross Nichols, the founder of The Order of Bards Ovates & Druids, when he was 11. He began studying with him when a teenager, and joined the Order of Bards Ovates and Druids at 18. He studied meditation with Olivia Robertson in Ireland, who later founded the Fellowship of Isis, and in his twenties he founded The Esoteric Society in London, which organised journeys for members to Bulgaria and Egypt, and hosted talks by well-known authors such as Gareth Knight, W. E. Butler, and Arthur Guirdham.

In 1975 his Druid teacher died, and he followed a Bulgarian teacher, Omraam Mikhael Aivanhov for seven years, giving talks on his teachings and helping with the translation and publishing of his books into English. He also travelled to Bulgaria and studied the work of Aivanhov’s teacher, Peter Deunov, visiting Sofia annually for fourteen years, teaching Deunov’s Paneurhythmy dance in England and at Findhorn in Scotland. In his thirties he turned to a study of psychology, taking a BSc degree at University College London and Jungian analysis, with plans to become an analyst. On discovering Psychosynthesis, he trained instead as a therapist at the Institute of Psychosynthesis in London and began a private practice.

In 1988 he was asked to lead the Order of Bards Ovates and Druids. He organised the Order’s teachings into a distance-learning course, and edited his teacher’s book with John Matthews [1]. Since that time, the Order has grown to become the largest Druid teaching order in the world.

Reviews

[Sam (Hissing Potatoes) · Rating 2 out of 5]

Too light to be a useful beginner's book or a meaningful advanced book. I liked the structure of the handful of chapters with a mythological story and subsequent lesson, but I didn't actually think there was a strong connection between the individual parts. The history sections were chock-full of holes and questionable interpretations that diminished the author's authority.

[Danni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finding yourself in the middle of a grove can feel like spiritual home for Druids. Yet, some Druids long for the witchcraft that lingers in Wicca. Others wish to honor the aspects of Wicca that drew them to Paganism to begin with. A combination of Druidry and Wicca might be a wonderful way to manifest the path that works best for you.  Druidcraft: The Magic of Wicca & Druidry by Philip Carr-Gomm is an excellent choice for discovering the tools and ideas you'll need to do just that.

This book is short and sweet. It could easily have been a part of the Pagan Portals series by Moon Books had it been published later. The focus is on teaching the basics to those interested in combining the paths of Wicca and Druidry. To do this each chapter is set up in a similar manner. It begins with a quote and follows with a retelling of a myth or legend. From here you the reader, portrayed as a student in the Forest School of Druidcraft is taken on a walk or lesson with the teacher Elidir. Elidir converses with Brendan, another student, in order that all students might learn from the questions being asked in the colloguoy section. At the end of each chapter is a bit of history pertaining to the origins of Wicca and Druidry. 

Generally, the information presented is interesting and useful. It's easy to stay engaged in each section because the author does a wonderful job of creating a world where the reader feels they belong to. I found the chapters on how Druidcraft approaches the ethics of the Law of Three and general classification of magical arts to be some of the most interesting. There are practical lessons that can begin to form the basis of a real, regular practice for the reader. There are also fantastical ideas and inspiration that will push readers to continue to study, observe, and learn. 

Not being a fan of the infamous Ishmael by Daniel Quinn I found the colloquoy part to be tedious at times. Talking to a real person in your regular life can be a magical way to learn. Reading about someone else talking to a teacher is a dull way to relive a boring lecture. I have a feeling that most readers will not be bothered by this, though. Even I was entertained enough with the other sections that the colloquoy took very little away from the overall reading experience. 

For those not completely happy with Wicca or Druidry, this book will be a fantastic read that will set you down a path that combines the best of both worlds. 

[Becca · Rating 3 out of 5]

I listened to this book in audiobook format and was inspired to do so because I've listened to a couple of Philip Carr-Gomm's lectures on OBOD's podcast Druidcast, which I've found really interesting and informative. This wasn't a bad book but unfortunately I think I prefer Carr-Gomm's straight up lectures over the story framing that this book was written in. I agree with another reviewer that it felt a bit campy, and that threw me out of it. My background before reading this was that I already knew a fair bit about Druidry but very little about Wicca so I did manage to learn a bit in spite of the fact that the book was rather short. I would have liked it to be longer and gone more in-depth. One thing that I particularly liked about the audiobook was Damh the Bard's music that was used as a transition between the different book sections (I think it was his 'Samhain Eve' song that was predominantly used, which happens to be one of my very favorites so I quite enjoyed hearing it so many times throughout the book and I think it leant great atmosphere to the theatrics of the presentation.) I'll likely read some of Philip Carr-Gomm's other works at some point as he is a good authority on these topics.

[Candace · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 As someone with a general interest in pagan things, this book was both interesting and not quite what I would have wished. The story-based style of communicating teachings was an interesting approach, and in some ways more pleasing to listen to (I had the audio book) than just a straightforward breakdown of topics would be, but it also makes you feel like you still want another book that gives you the same information in a more logical way.

The audio was very well done, the multiple narrators were pleasing to listen to and the performances were good. If anything, the dialogue style of the text lends itself particularly well to an audio format with multiple voices, so I would recommend the audio to people interested in the book.

[Lydia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was curious and this seemed like an interesting introduction.

[Sam Talkington · Rating 4 out of 5]

Studying the ancient European ways is very interesting. Different perspective on life and the seasons.

[Peter · Rating 3 out of 5]

A clever book, if a bit campy with the 2nd person walk-through. It may be alright for some, and I understand why it was used, but it detracts from the book, in my opinion. I like the use of clips from different myths, legends, and folklore to illustrate some points, but it was written with such an idyllic vision of a sacred/learning space that I kept waiting for the unicorns to stroll in.

If you've ever considered blending Druidry and Wicca, or are even interested in the concept, it's a good book on the subject, written by someone who knows of what they speak. Don't expect any great revelations.

[Thomas · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the weird format (story - talk - explanation) and a lot of what Carr-Gomm says makes sense, but somehow I felt that it only scratched the surface. I had expected a deeper book of sorts.

[Jamie Coenen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've always struggled to understand the difference between Wicca and Druidry because to me they are two sides of the same coin. This book affirms my opinion and gives examples of how the two systems cross over, such as with the roles of the witch and the ovate.

I'm not a fan of the use of mythology to demonstrate ideas or teach lessons, but this is a major part of Druidry and is used a lot in this book. I would have instead liked more facts and analyses. However, I did find the colloquies really useful and interesting, and they made me feel like I was attending an interactive druidcraft class.

I would highly recommend getting the audio-book version as the stories and exercises flow much better, and it includes music from Damh the Bard which really sets the scene for magic and storytelling.

[Amethyst Arcana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to the audiobook version of this title. I found it both entertaining and informative. Celtic tales are woven throughout lessons on Pagan history, witchcraft, and other spiritual topics such as love, manifestation, and the Wiccan Rule of Three. I especially enjoyed the explanation of how Wicca and modern Druid practice, both developed in the 20th Century, took different approaches to spiritual practice.

The book also has a storytelling element to it: a fictional mentor takes the reader through the text. The dialogue goes back and forth as if a student is asking a teacher questions. While I found this suitable and enjoyable in audio format, it may not be everyone’s cup of tea within a written one.

Overall, this is an enjoyable audiobook (about 4:40 hours long) to listen to while working on projects and chores!

[Sas UrbaneHexe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book if you are new to the old ways and want to get an idea of what Wicca and Druidry are and if either of them are a path for you.
It will be also helpful if you are a Wiccan or Druid and want to learn about the history and origins of both paths and about what they have in common, cause they're like sisters or twin paths. And it may also be a book for Wiccans or Druids who try to figure out how to combine these two paths.
Either way this book can only be a starting point. The information you can find here is solid and well researched, but it's more like an introduction or overview.
The best parts are the history parts, they are really good, but you won't find a lot of practical advice.

[Jessa Dudics · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutly a beautifully written book. I listened to this on audible. I actually listen to it 3 or 4 times in a row, just because of the beauty behind this written piece of art. If you listen to it i feel you get the best experience ever. I will be listening to it more in the future just because it is a beautiful refresher. The way this book combines info and a story to keep you interested is just amazing, I cannot say enough good stuff about this book!!

[Heidi Hanley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book. The premise of integrating the crafts of Wicca and Druidry is relevant for those of us walking an earth-based path. The way Philip organized the chapters was really helpful and unique. The suggestions for practice were well thought out and appealing to a novice and I expect more advanced practitioners. My favorite chapters were 6 & 7, but I gained much from every chapter.

[Rave · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found this book to be charming in the way the chapters described the Druid path but found that it only scratched the surface of the practice. This book is great for surface level interest in the practice, as what I was looking for initially, but I wish there was a little more to the book. Nonetheless, I felt like this book was a great and inspiring piece of material to get to know about the practice.

[Josephine · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. I quite liked the teacher/student style of communication after the stories once I got used to it. I read it on my kindle which may have swayed my rating because more and more I'm returning to books. Somehow the content resonates better when I can move in a tactile way between the pages. Looking forward to reading more by this author - he has a warm, wise voice.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I've ever read. I listened on Audible and this is just beautiful. I'm going to order the hardcopy now so I can highlight all over it because I want to revisit and savor so many parts of this. Love

[Christian F Brunner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grossartiges Buch

This is a great book to get you going on an interesting path. Now that I've read it, the real test will be to work with it. Can't wait...

[DustyPages · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful exploration and explanation of the freedom of combining these spiritual paths in personal practice. Lovely examples, stories and metaphors gently offered.

[Erin · Rating 2 out of 5]

I just didnt like it. I listened to it on audiobook. I dont think it is a bad book per se, just not what I was looking for and I will not be carrying on. DNF

[Jessie Noaro · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderfully written understanding of the ways in which Wicca and Druidry can come together... and often do. A very non-biased depiction of both schools. I appreciated this greatly.

[Dodie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this audio book. The production of this audio book was really well done and I liked his explanation of how Witchcraft and Druidism weave together.

[SHLuimstra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Een Nederlandse vertaling gelezen. Weber heeft de wereld onttoverd. Dit boek geeft , als je het wil zien, de Magie weer terug. Een mooie inleiding met tips voor verdieping. Heerlijk ondogmatisch.

[jade · Rating 4 out of 5]

Philip Carr-Gomm, psychologist and one of the leaders of the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids, attempts to show a combination of two well-known religious paths in this book: Druidcraft, which draws upon beliefs and practices of both Wicca and Druidry. He does so in a logical and lyrical build-up of seven chapters, and even includes a final chapter on his resources (which is something I really appreciated personally).

Each chapter starts out with a chant or spell that represents the chapter’s theme, followed by an inspirational story/legend, told by a fictive bard, after which the story is discussed with the readers fictional teacher and members of a learning circle. This is meant to inspire the reader, and stimulate them to think about the bard’s story. After this, Carr-Gomm adds a more practical section in which spells, charms, rituals and more revolving around the main chapter’s theme are offered to the reader for personal use. And finally, Carr-Gomm closes his chapters with a bit of history background on the main chapter’s theme, the bard’s story, and the more practical applicants of the theme that he put forth.

It’s the way that this book is formatted that I truly enjoyed. I thought it was an interesting approach that stayed true to the history and philosophy behind Druidry in particular, and it helped me immerse myself more in the material. I also commend Carr-Gomm for being so thorough on everything, providing a historical background and source material for practically his entire book.

Druidcraft: The Magic Of Wicca & Druidry is perhaps not necessarily the birth of a new religious path as some might take it to be by its title only, but rather the analysis of Carr-Gomm that practitioners of both Wicca and Druidry might feel quite drawn to each other’s paths simply because those are similar in many ways. And in this book, he merely provides an argument for how those similarities could merge together into something that’s a bit of both – more combined and merged than the separate paths of Wicca and Druidry are right now.

As a criticism, one could say that Carr-Gomm didn’t really bring anything quite new to the table, but this didn’t bother me as much as it might have because I didn’t know a lot about Druidry before I started reading this book. I can imagine that readers with more advanced knowledge on both Wicca and Druidry might think that Carr-Gomm is a little late to the party. However, I still considered this book to be a delightful read.

Recommended for those interested in both Wicca and Druidry, and a possible combination of those two religious paths.

[Cynthia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had read this title previously and remember really enjoying it, and chances are when I initially consumed this material it was near the publication date of 2012.

Now almost ten years later, my stance has shifted a bit. While I appreciate and enjoyed most of what this book had to offer, there are a couple of things that I did not.

I think the ways that the various pieces of information are provided is fun and can really help the reader feel like they are immersed in the world that the authors have created, however, I felt like most of the ‘conversations’ between student and teacher were one sided and repeated information, it didn’t actually feel like there was sincere dialogue.

There is also a section that refers to ‘white witches’ and ‘white magic’ which I find problematic for a couple of different reasons.

Again, I want to take into consideration the year in which the title was published and I want to give the authors benefit of the doubt; that like many people who experience the privilege of being white and do not experience racism, using the time ‘white witch’ is inherently racist.

The other term used in the book, ‘white magic’ could hold the same argument, but in the context of the conversation in which it was used, it struck me as odd that they wouldn’t ensure the ‘students’ understood that magic is neutral- just as nature is neutral and that the flavor and expression of magic is defined by the intention of the practitioner. If you want to convey that the magic is of positive intent, simply say that. If you want to describe magic that is intentionally harmful, you can use terms like ‘baneful magic.’

There were also sections of the book that felt like the authors were speaking in absolutes, such as when they were suggesting that everyone has the means to grow their own food regardless of where they live which rubbed me the wrong way. It felt as though they were implying that having the space to grow your own food is the only obstacle that people face, disregarding that financial ability, time, and countless other factors go into people’s lives - it honestly felt short sided and willfully ignorant of other peoples circumstances.

Overall, I think it’s a fair introduction to the concept of combining the paths of Wicca and Druidry. While I can say that it doesn’t align with my personal practice, objectively there are fun, educational, and thought provoking aspects of this book. Hopefully if this title is ever revised, the elements of racism will be removed and an effort will be made to use inclusive examples of how to express their perspectives.

[Judith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I first read this when I was very new to paganism, and I didn't really understand it then. Now I'm so much further and enjoyed reading it very much. The way Wicca and duidery are connected in the book really opened my eyes to the various different pagan paths that all havo commonalities but practice in a different way. It's more about finding what you resonate with.
At least the way the book is structured and written resonates with me. The poems, the myths, the dialogue and the history are so powerful to create an image, a feeling in your mind. But then, bards are known for their creativity and way with words. Yes, I liked it so much that, at times, I wished I wasn't just visualizing but was actually there...

[Davin Raincloud · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have read this book and listened to the audio version a couple of times. I would rate this book 3.5 out of 5 stars. I wanted it to be more. I find it hard to recommend this book to people as it doesn't communicate its teachings as clear as I would like. It is very poetic and lyrical and there is a sweetness to it, but it would be hard for a newbie to grasp, and maybe just as hard for a seasoned traveler to gain something from it. As a practical person I was looking for something more technical and more precise. I consider myself a practitioner of Druidcraft (both OBOD Druidry and Wicca) so I guess my hopes were a bit high. Honestly pick up the audiobook version because the performance is great.

[Silas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to the audio version of this book, which is quite well narrated, particularly the story parts. I enjoyed the inclusion of music, but some of the pieces did stretch out the length of the book a bit.

I found the exploration of the ways that Druidry and Wicca interact quite interesting, as I combine elements of both of them already. This is still aimed at someone rather new to the path, but it is quite well crafted, and not overwhelmingly long. I would recommend it if you are interested in combining these two paths, and are not sure how to proceed.

[Jio Butler · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting albeit short book, it covers the essentials that are especially useful when transitioning from Wicca to Druidry or vice versa. Sections are written like a story, which is appropriate for the topic and also an excellent way of communicating the knowledge. Although I did not gain as much out of this book as I hoped I would, it was a very inspiring read. The bibliography was useful, too.

[Petra · Rating 3 out of 5]

As much as I love Philipp and as good as his writing is - and the idea of merging Druidry and Wicca - this book should have been a Poem. it reads beautifully, but if you are looking for "how to", you will not find it here. It is full of questions, ideas, verbal Pictures, and probably works really well on your sub-conscious - but it does not actually give any answers.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

So enjoyed this. Really informative and easy to understand. A rich journey into the world of Druid and Wicca. Takes you on a journey as you learn with wonderful story telling and peaceful meditations.