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Slow Seasons: A Creative Guide to Reconnecting with Nature the Celtic Way
'A truly beautiful book. Rosie's writing makes me want to close my laptop, step outside, and appreciate the magic that each season brings' Jessica Elliot Dennison
In her late-twenties, feeling utterly overwhelmed by the pace of modern city life, Rosie Steer found solace in the traditions she had been brought up with, influenced by her Scottish roots, that celebrated nature and observed the small steady shifts in the seasons.
The Celtic Wheel of the year is an ancient seasonal cycle that aligns with solar events – the solstices, equinoxes and their midpoints. For each mini-season, Rosie shares nature notes for what we can look out for as the days get warmer or cooler, the nights longer or shorter, alongside activities, things to make, flowers or fruit to forage, seasonal recipes to enjoy and a modern take on the traditional celebrations.
As the Wheel turns towards Samhain on 31st October , we can look forward to foraging apples and berries to make Hedgerow jelly, watching the leaves turn golden, collecting pine cones for a Pine cone garland and celebrating pumpkin season with Pumpkin and root veg chilli and Chocolate cake with pumpkin curd .
By slowing down and paying attention to the ebbs and flows of nature, we can find moments of calm whenever we need them.
In her late-twenties, feeling utterly overwhelmed by the pace of modern city life, Rosie Steer found solace in the traditions she had been brought up with, influenced by her Scottish roots, that celebrated nature and observed the small steady shifts in the seasons.
The Celtic Wheel of the year is an ancient seasonal cycle that aligns with solar events – the solstices, equinoxes and their midpoints. For each mini-season, Rosie shares nature notes for what we can look out for as the days get warmer or cooler, the nights longer or shorter, alongside activities, things to make, flowers or fruit to forage, seasonal recipes to enjoy and a modern take on the traditional celebrations.
As the Wheel turns towards Samhain on 31st October , we can look forward to foraging apples and berries to make Hedgerow jelly, watching the leaves turn golden, collecting pine cones for a Pine cone garland and celebrating pumpkin season with Pumpkin and root veg chilli and Chocolate cake with pumpkin curd .
By slowing down and paying attention to the ebbs and flows of nature, we can find moments of calm whenever we need them.
192 pages, Hardcover
Published December 12, 2023
143 people are currently reading
2142 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
March 15, 2024
I went into this book very excited to have my life changed and was so disappointed. Instead of a guide to slower, seasonal living, the majority of the book consists of recipes and things like lists of the author’s favorite types of pine. All of these things would make a lovely blog post or magazine article, but I don’t feel like I know any more about slow, seasonal living than I did before and put all together in book format I felt like my time was being wasted. It probably would have been better if I hadn’t listened to the audiobook (listening to hours of recipes read out is not really enjoyable or memorable), but all my complaints would remain. The book doesn’t even conclude, just drops off after one last seasonal activity.
January 23, 2024
3.5 stars. The ideas are good and I enjoyed learning about Celtic culture and traditions. But 50% of the audiobook was reading of recipes and art projects. It probably would be better to read the hard copy.
August 1, 2025
Gorgeous! 🥰🥰🥰
October 24, 2023
After following Rosie’s substack newsletter, Sow, Grow, Harvest, Rest, I decided to pre-order her book Slow Seasons. There’s such a gentleness to Rosie’s writing tone and the way she describes nature will leave you awe-filled. Broken into Celtic seasons, the book focuses on developing an appreciation for nature by paying close attention to small details and changes in the environment around us. Each chapter is dedicated to a different season: Imbolc, Ostara, Beltane, Litha, Lunastal, Mabon, Samhain, and Yule. From there, the author describes the history of the season and gives examples of how to celebrate it inside the home and out in nature. Part memoir, part cookbook, and part DIY craft guide, Slow Seasons was just the book I needed to feel refreshed by the changing leaves instead of filled with dread for the coming darkness. I’m so glad I picked up this cozy book. I’ll be flipping back to it each season as I search for a bit of inspiration on traditions to build with my own family.
February 20, 2025
Good book full of fun crafting/making ideas.
January 5, 2025
Witchy Scottish Cottage-core vibes. Been craving a book like this to know how to celebrate the wheel of the year more fully!! I love honoring the change in the seasons more than mainstream Christianity. All my favorite parts of those holidays tend to be the original Celtic/pagan parts anyway!!
January 30, 2024
Lovely to read a book from a fellow St Andrews English grad. I really relate to Rosie’s philosophy about the mental health benefits of living seasonally - this is a lovely little almanac of recipes, activities and crafts to bring you in step with the natural year.
I do wish publishers would be more diligent about providing a pdf with audiobooks that contain recipes, or at very least a proper contents page so I can navigate back to recipes and crafts!
I do wish publishers would be more diligent about providing a pdf with audiobooks that contain recipes, or at very least a proper contents page so I can navigate back to recipes and crafts!
December 7, 2023
This is a lovely look at the celebrations of the Celtic calendar. Slow Seasons offer readers the chance to celebrate the changing seasons through the appreciation of the natural world. Steer suggests recipes and ideas for reconnecting with nature. Highly recommended.
June 24, 2025
I love reading books about savouring the seasons and finding joy in the seasons. I feel like that is how I live my life. This book was a lovely read about connecting with nature and using seasonal produce, as well as celebrating seasonal holidays, to make life more enjoyable and memorable. This book delved into the Celtic traditions that are celebrated throughout the year, and was filled with lovely tips, recipes, and inspirational insights.
A few of my favourite quotations from this book:
“Despite what society tells us, I strongly believe that a life lived fully is a life lived in the smaller moments” (Steer 11).
“The childish joy of the year’s first snowfall. Spotting the first shoots emerge from the earth, a miracle of returning life and energy. The hazy freedom of endless Summer days at the seaside. Inky fingers and the promise of blackberry crumble. The spectacular shedding of Autumn’s coat, all tones of russet and gold. The quiet beauty of a frosty Winter day under crystalline blue skies. The turn of the seasons offers a source of constant wonder in an uncertain world, a reminder of the beauty and small joys we can find at all times of the year if we slow down and look closely enough” (Steer 6).
“The seasons are fluid, ever-changing and evolving, and we are too. The way to capture the moment is to slow down and look within, to simplify and celebrate the everyday” (Steer 11).
“Returning home, I saw everything with fresh eyes: off-grid stays can help put things into perspective by reminding you that the most simple things are the most satisfying, and the daily acts that we take for granted can be moments of everyday magic” (Steer 108).
“The art of lighting a fire teaches patience, and lessons can be learnt from the fire itself: built too big, it will rapidly burn out; a long, slow burn provides the best warmth” (Steer 152).
A few of my favourite quotations from this book:
“Despite what society tells us, I strongly believe that a life lived fully is a life lived in the smaller moments” (Steer 11).
“The childish joy of the year’s first snowfall. Spotting the first shoots emerge from the earth, a miracle of returning life and energy. The hazy freedom of endless Summer days at the seaside. Inky fingers and the promise of blackberry crumble. The spectacular shedding of Autumn’s coat, all tones of russet and gold. The quiet beauty of a frosty Winter day under crystalline blue skies. The turn of the seasons offers a source of constant wonder in an uncertain world, a reminder of the beauty and small joys we can find at all times of the year if we slow down and look closely enough” (Steer 6).
“The seasons are fluid, ever-changing and evolving, and we are too. The way to capture the moment is to slow down and look within, to simplify and celebrate the everyday” (Steer 11).
“Returning home, I saw everything with fresh eyes: off-grid stays can help put things into perspective by reminding you that the most simple things are the most satisfying, and the daily acts that we take for granted can be moments of everyday magic” (Steer 108).
“The art of lighting a fire teaches patience, and lessons can be learnt from the fire itself: built too big, it will rapidly burn out; a long, slow burn provides the best warmth” (Steer 152).
January 13, 2025
If I had one word to describe this book it would be “cozy.” Steer walks the listener/reader through the wheel of the year inspired by Celtic folklore and customs by giving you personal anecdotes, mindful advice as well as seasonal recipes and crafts. Going into the book, I did not realize how recipe/instruction-heavy it would be making it a bit painful to listen to on audiobook at certain points. The Celtic customs described are loosely researched at best so I would not come here for historically accurate information. This book is best used as a comforting guide to the seasons and diy resource for fun crafts. One thing I will take away from the book is the importance of slow transitions of the seasons - how it’s important to be present in the moment and the current seasonal sensations as opposed to rushing onto the next thing as we so often like to do.
January 15, 2025
Beautifully cozy read! I love all things romanticizing the mundane and connecting with the seasons/nature. Also felt connected to the author as she is a fellow OCD girlie/teacher. I will say this may be one better to read a physical copy because of all of the crafts and recipes etc. included, I may buy it myself!
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January 10, 2025I'd suggest getting a physical copy if you're interested, it's not really a sit down and read all at once kind of thing.
October 21, 2025
Such a cozy listen. I am not one for audiobooks but this was just fabulous. I loved listening to the recipes and craft ideas along with fun stories and lore. I highly recommend this is the perfect autumn listen while you’re cooking
September 18, 2025
Such a beautiful book with lots of crafts and baking ideas to slow down and fill the seasons.
November 8, 2023
A lovely read, very comforting book at this time of year.
November 3, 2023
A perfect seasonal read that will always be in arms reach. This book embraces every season, taught me things I didn’t know (Samhain), and gives me recipes and craft ideas that all link back to nature - what’s not to love!
March 30, 2024
To be honest–disappointed.
After looking at Rosie Steer's webpage (now somewhat defunct/historical in favor of Instagram: boo) I was hoping for more. During the height of the pandemic shutdown, I had really enjoyed her pics of still-lifes (seasonal bouquets, tea cups and apartment decorations) and changing views from her Edinburgh window, along with her low-key musings and photos of her local trips and some recipes so I was excited to hear about the release of "Slow Seasons".
However, although a nice enough production, the book is composed of some basic illustrations with fairly tiny type and is oddly organized. As another reader mentioned, after giving a recipe or two, Rosie goes on at length about pine cones (and seaweed) and kind of assumes the rest of us have access to something like the coastal joys of Scotland. (I don't think it's meant to be but it reads as a bit obtuse and privileged). I also should have been more alert from the subtitle to the "Celtic Way" focus, which doesn't particularly interest me.
While I've visited both Edinburgh and the Scottish coast, I don't currently live in a place where I can trip out the back door to catch a train and go collecting pebbles or count the orcas or seabirds or sheep on the hillsides ...so, not a lot of information to help out the majority of the rest of us. Maybe we're supposed to feel more peaceful reading about Rosie feeling more peaceful? (And frankly, one more use of the word "wee" and I was going to fling).
I'm glad that Rosie has found a publisher since she seems to have had some mental struggles and needed a new direction in her life but I hope a future effort will include a) more actual pics of locations and decor and b) fewer musings on how great it is to be Scottish and have a Celtic ancestry (and present) that allows you to stagger around the shores of the British isles while the rest of us look for more universally-themed books that might address our own desire to "live a slower, happier, more wondrous life." (back board of "Slow Seasons").
After looking at Rosie Steer's webpage (now somewhat defunct/historical in favor of Instagram: boo) I was hoping for more. During the height of the pandemic shutdown, I had really enjoyed her pics of still-lifes (seasonal bouquets, tea cups and apartment decorations) and changing views from her Edinburgh window, along with her low-key musings and photos of her local trips and some recipes so I was excited to hear about the release of "Slow Seasons".
However, although a nice enough production, the book is composed of some basic illustrations with fairly tiny type and is oddly organized. As another reader mentioned, after giving a recipe or two, Rosie goes on at length about pine cones (and seaweed) and kind of assumes the rest of us have access to something like the coastal joys of Scotland. (I don't think it's meant to be but it reads as a bit obtuse and privileged). I also should have been more alert from the subtitle to the "Celtic Way" focus, which doesn't particularly interest me.
While I've visited both Edinburgh and the Scottish coast, I don't currently live in a place where I can trip out the back door to catch a train and go collecting pebbles or count the orcas or seabirds or sheep on the hillsides ...so, not a lot of information to help out the majority of the rest of us. Maybe we're supposed to feel more peaceful reading about Rosie feeling more peaceful? (And frankly, one more use of the word "wee" and I was going to fling).
I'm glad that Rosie has found a publisher since she seems to have had some mental struggles and needed a new direction in her life but I hope a future effort will include a) more actual pics of locations and decor and b) fewer musings on how great it is to be Scottish and have a Celtic ancestry (and present) that allows you to stagger around the shores of the British isles while the rest of us look for more universally-themed books that might address our own desire to "live a slower, happier, more wondrous life." (back board of "Slow Seasons").
January 30, 2025
I listened to this booklet after reading reviews that people didn’t quite enjoy the recipes being read to them. Personally, I would have preferred having a pdf file to accompany the audio book on Audible, but I would listen to all the author’s ideas again. I have a weakness for Scotland and the lovely accent that comes with it. The narration was truly lovely and the voice very soothing and calming to listen to. You can hear the passion of the author within the narration style.
I would still recommend to read it, to those who would rather have the recipes and ideas in written form, but my experience was quite positive.
I learned so much about Celtic traditions and got inspired to be more mindful and to slow down with the seasons, to savour each one of them, and learn to find the light in the dark months.
I would still recommend to read it, to those who would rather have the recipes and ideas in written form, but my experience was quite positive.
I learned so much about Celtic traditions and got inspired to be more mindful and to slow down with the seasons, to savour each one of them, and learn to find the light in the dark months.
December 28, 2025
I found this book to be very frustrating. Everything is incredibly surface-level, leaving me dissatisfied. References to historical context are present but extremely limited, so I didn't finish the book knowing much more than I did when I started. There are many personal (and very local) references, but no actual narrative or significant anecdotes to create a cohesive picture of the author or story that carries throughout the book. There are some recipes and crafts for each season, but not enough to make the book a frequently-used reference. Rather than trying to cover all of these aspects, i wish the author had focused in on one aspect for a more fulfilling read. This feels like the outline of a Wheel of the Year book- incomplete.
Also, the margins are absurd and take up about 40% of the page. Why?
Also, the margins are absurd and take up about 40% of the page. Why?
March 26, 2024
Another day, another lovely read from my truly lovely friend, Sacha, who kindly gifted me this book at Christmas time. 'Slow Seasons' is a profound and personal guide from author Rosie Steer for throughout the year with mindful and nature-filled activities (such as foraging, wreath-making, recipes and more) based around the Celtic calendar and her own upbringing in rural Scotland. The book is deeply calming and inspiring (before finishing the book my belly was already inspired to follow the scone recipe...) and I look forward to picking it up time and time again when feeling the need to scratch my long-dormant arts and crafts itch.
August 10, 2024
This is a great book to come back to every few months to revel in the current season. I am someone who struggles to enjoy and be present in the colder wintery months because I prefer the warm summer months and this book shed a light on how to appreciate each season for what it is, and how to make the most out each one.
An easy read, I read it all in one day and then return back to the section of the current time of year.
Has helped me to slow down and be more aware of natures role in each season, and I really appreciated the sections on crafts and recipes.
An easy read, I read it all in one day and then return back to the section of the current time of year.
Has helped me to slow down and be more aware of natures role in each season, and I really appreciated the sections on crafts and recipes.
September 1, 2025
Such a joy to read this season by season, Sabbat by Sabbat. I adore how my life so naturally has been led by seasonal changes and how, right up to my 40th year, I had no idea it was a Celtic sacred way of marking time, celebrating and an innate calling within me. I’d just done it all for years, then found my way to the sabbats and my life became so much more meaningful.
For those who love nature or who already enjoy marking the changes in the seasons, this book will give you a really warm fuzzy feeling, ideas and plenty of wisdom!
For those who love nature or who already enjoy marking the changes in the seasons, this book will give you a really warm fuzzy feeling, ideas and plenty of wisdom!
June 9, 2024
This book was not as happy of a read as I thought it would be, it all seemed kind of sad and dull, I was expecting more excitement about the changing of seasons. Many recipes were based around sugar, which is a poison, in a book that talks about nourishing our bodies, sugar consumption is misplaced, I wish this book had more healthy, nourishing recipes, perhaps using foraged ingredients. I did like the gorse flower tea!
February 12, 2024
The book gave me the impression I would learn more about the history and traditions of the Celtic calendar. Sadly, I felt it was a poetically-written home and garden magazine, filled with recipes and crafts. It has a beautiful cover and a tasteful layout, but the information itself is definitely lacking.
March 23, 2024
I returned the book the day after I bought it because it was not what I expected. It is full of recipes and diy ideas but it is lacking a foundational description on sabbaths. I was expecting to get a very detailed text on tradition, celebration from a spiritual/wiccan view and history about the sabbaths.
It’s still enjoyable, nicely written and easy to read book. Just not what I was going for.
It’s still enjoyable, nicely written and easy to read book. Just not what I was going for.
January 28, 2025
I went into this book very excited to have my life changed and was disappointed.
Instead of a guide to slower, seasonal living, the majority of the book consists of recipes and things like lists of the author’s favorite types of pine. The book doesn’t even conclude, just drops off after one last seasonal activity. I could have done something else with my time.
Instead of a guide to slower, seasonal living, the majority of the book consists of recipes and things like lists of the author’s favorite types of pine. The book doesn’t even conclude, just drops off after one last seasonal activity. I could have done something else with my time.
October 13, 2025
I have been struggling a little in this year of 2025 and it was nice to reflect on how to appreciate the art of taking it slow. This book has a nice mix of stories, recipes and crafts. I would recommend to a friend even if they don’t follow a pagan tradition because there isn’t a heavy hand on paganism (though I am one myself).
November 17, 2025
A lovely book that helps you take it slow and enjoy every season with recipes, craft ideas and reflections on nature, tradition and your mood in each season. I read the book throughout the year in each 6-week period of the Celtic wheel of the year - it was a great way to enjoy the book and find seasonal inspiration! I am sure I will keep returning to this book for ideas for years to come.
January 8, 2024
A beautiful companion to follow the cycle of the year. For each "event" there's explanations, tops, recipes, crafts and rituals to prompt you to observe and honour the changes of the seasons and the traditions the Celtic year follows.
August 28, 2024
Such a lovely little book! Not the deepest one you’ll ever read, but very cute and atmospheric look into the seasonal living approach — with quite a lot of recipes and crafty bits, too, which I wasn’t expecting.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews