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Whispers of the Moon: The Life and Work of Scott Cunningham
Scott Cunningham authored more than 50 books in his lifetime, 15 of which lay the foundation for the non-institutional growth of modern Wicca. Whispers of the Moon combines Scott's unfinished autobiography with the added efforts of two of his closest friends. It traces his life and growth as a writer and philosopher-magician, and it also includes some of Scott's poetry, portions of letters, and exposition of his personal philosophy and religion.
256 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 1997
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
June 13, 2025
I admit that I am head-over-heels in love with Scott Cunningham. I don’t care that he’s gay, and I certainly don’t care that he’s been deceased for over thirty years. He’s my twin-that-never was, a fellow soul traveler in this universe, and I have the **biggest** girl-crush on him. Truly, he was, and remains to this day, a fantastic human being, and my admiration for him will likely never cease.
Originally an autobiography, Harrington and Regula expanded Cunningham’s writing to create “Whispers of the Moon: The Life and Work of Scott Cunningham,” an autobiography/biography in six parts that takes a deeper dive into Scott’s life from birth to his death—using his own words and the personal memories of the authors.
This book was well-written and is a heartfelt account of Cunningham’s life. I particularly appreciate the fact that the authors were extremely respectful of Cunningham’s life; they didn’t go into the nitty-gritty details that, quite frankly, weren’t anyone’s business, particularly so given the massive amount of ignorance regarding health conditions and the overbearing repression of the LGBTQ+ community at the time.
Unfortunately, this book (as far as I can see) is currently out of print, so I wasn’t able to order a Kindle version. Instead, I had to purchase a paperback version, which is something that I think Cunningham would have appreciated.
Originally an autobiography, Harrington and Regula expanded Cunningham’s writing to create “Whispers of the Moon: The Life and Work of Scott Cunningham,” an autobiography/biography in six parts that takes a deeper dive into Scott’s life from birth to his death—using his own words and the personal memories of the authors.
This book was well-written and is a heartfelt account of Cunningham’s life. I particularly appreciate the fact that the authors were extremely respectful of Cunningham’s life; they didn’t go into the nitty-gritty details that, quite frankly, weren’t anyone’s business, particularly so given the massive amount of ignorance regarding health conditions and the overbearing repression of the LGBTQ+ community at the time.
Unfortunately, this book (as far as I can see) is currently out of print, so I wasn’t able to order a Kindle version. Instead, I had to purchase a paperback version, which is something that I think Cunningham would have appreciated.
July 11, 2019
Well written biography by people who loved him.
May 17, 2017
An amazing book. A must read for anyone interested in learning about this author. It's done by friends of his and you can really feel the love that went onto this book. I respect Cunningham even more now!
October 6, 2019
I like the insight shared. It helped to expand my understanding of one person's walk
July 4, 2020
Anyone in modern magical circles has at least heard the name of Scott Cunningham. Heck, whether or not a few would like to admit it, because of the pervasiveness, and number of his publications, his books were probably some of the earliest works budding magicians read.
His influence is still felt today, twenty years after his death, many of his popular books are still in print, to influence the next generation with their clear passion, knowledge, and accessibility that demonstrated that one could begin a devotion, and magical practice from Nature just outside one's door. Giving the reading audience permission, nay, encouragement to pursue these joyful moments without fear, or worry if one hadn't found others with whom to share this.
The introduction clearly states that this is not an expose. It uses portions of his diaries, and the unfinished text of his autobiography to guide us, ever so briefly, through the highlights of his life. Written by two people who worked with him, it also offers at the end, short recollections from other authors, publishers, family, and friends. An appendix is devoted to his booklet, "A Formula Book of Magical Incenses and Oils".
I had hoped to learn a bit more about him, without any desire for lurid details. As a private person, I imagine, that would be difficult to construct some of his history. Only a few of his major Llewellyn books are mentioned regarding the writing process, and how he felt.
Perhaps there was more left on the editing floor.
Overall, it is a pleasant glance into the life of a man that shaped a generation of magical practitioners, and believers in the "Old-New Religion".
His influence is still felt today, twenty years after his death, many of his popular books are still in print, to influence the next generation with their clear passion, knowledge, and accessibility that demonstrated that one could begin a devotion, and magical practice from Nature just outside one's door. Giving the reading audience permission, nay, encouragement to pursue these joyful moments without fear, or worry if one hadn't found others with whom to share this.
The introduction clearly states that this is not an expose. It uses portions of his diaries, and the unfinished text of his autobiography to guide us, ever so briefly, through the highlights of his life. Written by two people who worked with him, it also offers at the end, short recollections from other authors, publishers, family, and friends. An appendix is devoted to his booklet, "A Formula Book of Magical Incenses and Oils".
I had hoped to learn a bit more about him, without any desire for lurid details. As a private person, I imagine, that would be difficult to construct some of his history. Only a few of his major Llewellyn books are mentioned regarding the writing process, and how he felt.
Perhaps there was more left on the editing floor.
Overall, it is a pleasant glance into the life of a man that shaped a generation of magical practitioners, and believers in the "Old-New Religion".
August 20, 2016
I enjoyed this book. I am not sure what else to say other than it was a good read. Of course knowing about Cunningham and his life, you know its going to have a sad ending. He was a gift to the Wiccan world, in my opinion and he will always be missed.
I am giving the book three stars because I feel like it could have gotten a little more in-depth and at times the book felt more like a quick overview of his life and there could have been more stories etc.
I am giving the book three stars because I feel like it could have gotten a little more in-depth and at times the book felt more like a quick overview of his life and there could have been more stories etc.
March 21, 2015
I wasn't alive until it had been a few years since his passing. This book shows the man behind the many wonderful books he wrote. He was an inspiration to not only Wiccans but also to authors. Amazing read! I highly recommend this to any Scott Cunningham fan
July 24, 2013
When I read it, it made him feel alive and gave me insight into his life.
March 4, 2016
Magical insight of one of the great ones
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October 19, 2017This book about Scott was a wonderful look into the man and witch that we was...I have learned so much about him and about the magic that is within me.....Thank you Mr. Harrington, it was like me learning at Scott's knee and getting to see this side of Scott Cunningham....
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews