Yule: Rituals, Recipes & Lore for the Winter Solstice

Llewellyn's Sabbat Essentials

by Susan Pesznecker

Llewellyn's Sabbat Essentials series explores the old and new ways of celebrating the seasonal rites that are the cornerstones in the witch's year.

A well-rounded introduction to Yule, this attractive book features rituals, recipes, lore, and correspondences. It includes hands-on information for modern celebrations, spells and divination, recipes and crafts, invocations and prayers, and more!

Yule—also known as Midwinter—is when nighttime has reached its maximum length, but there is a promise of brighter days to come as candles are lit and feasts are enjoyed. This guide to the history and modern celebration of Yule shows you how to perform rituals and magic to celebrate and work with the energy of the winter solstice.

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

227 pages, Paperback

First published October 8, 2015

Reviews

[Rowan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Superficial and unfocused. I was hoping for something more academic, but this reads more like an article in a family magazine. Alongside the occasional (frequently unsourced, usually incomplete, and sometimes simply incorrect) historical lore, it gives equal regard to advice like throwing ice cubes at trees to make it snow, and the best months of the year to buy Christmas lights at stores like Target. This is supposed to be a book, not a lifestyle blog.

I also can't endorse a book that recommends blatantly harmful practices like hanging treats for birds from tree branches using dental floss, which often contains Xylitol and is fatally toxic to birds, cats, and dogs of all kinds. Utterly irresponsible.

[BLynne · Rating 3 out of 5]

This a a great book for beginners or those just interested in learning more about Pagan or alternative holidays. It was full of information but felt it was a little short when it came to the old time Yule pagan celebrations and rituals. It was enjoyable and fun to ready.

[Plateresca · Rating 3 out of 5]

On the whole, it was OK: I can't say it was bad, but I can't say it was particularly inspiring either.
Still, I've used one spell from this book and it worked like nobody's business, so, you know, I don't complain ;)

[Tyree · Rating 2 out of 5]

Though I like this series in general, I had some issues with this book.

The editing is bad - there are lots of punctuation, grammatical, and spelling errors.

The author's tone can sometimes come across as dismissive, judgmental, or condescending.

The book repeats the same information over and over again, in several different sections. It really felt like the author was trying to pad the length of chapters by repeating things she had already told us.

In the correspondences section, 19 goddesses are presented as linked with Yule... but only 3 gods. (Though I do like that the author included Slavic goddesses, since the Slavic pantheon is frequently forgotten. But come on, only 3 winter gods?)

Additionally, I just wasn't very fond of the crafts, rituals, and invocations/prayers in this book. Many of the crafts and recipes didn't have much to do with Yule. A chili recipe? Really? The prayers and rituals were uninspired and boring.

While this book does provide some good information for VERY NEW pagans, overall I would advise to skip it in favor of other books on the subject.

[Tyler Gray · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.5

[Ann Dudzinski · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my book clubs December pick. A bit on the lighter side, but it's a good addition to my Llewellyn's Sabbat books. Easy to read so next time one of my kids ask me what Yule is about, I'll just hand them this book. 😊

It would have been nice if there were more beverage recipes that didn't include alcohol, but I'll try out the wassail.

[Molly · Rating 2 out of 5]

Disappointing and lightweight with little of practical use. Includes bizarre suggestions of "traditions" such as putting a white crayon in your freezer to make it snow...

[Meredith Stepien · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved learning about Yule!!

[Avery Engstrom · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first book on magick I read all the way through, as well as the first holiday I celebrated. I had this author as a Writing Composition teacher several years ago and I was pleasantly surprised to find that she is not only a witch, but writes books on magick as well. She was an incredible writing teacher, and I found this book equally informative. This is my favorite of the Llewellyn sabbat books.

[Anniken Haga · Rating 2 out of 5]

So I don't celebrate Christmas. Instead, I celebrate midwinter, but I've done so alone in the last 3 years because of my health. Also because of my health, I haven't done much out of it. I light a candle as the sun sets on the 21st, and that's it.
This year, however, I'm hoping my health will be a bit better, and I hope to light a fire with some loved ones. Because of this, I thought it would be a good time to finally read this book that's been on my shelf for years now!

The book in itself is easy to follow, but it feels a little like an indie book - there are a lot of minor grammatical errors that a good editor should have picked up - and while it uses some references, it doesn't always do so. This also mean that there were some errors in the information this book gives in regards to who celebrates what in what way - like the note on ''tomten'', where the author said it was a ''purely Swedish thing'', which it's not. All the Nordics have something similar to ''tomten'', but we call it something else (they also said this about something else, but I can't remember on the fly) - they also didn't go into detail about some of the older ways midwinter was celebrated in the Nordic countries - the Grey Hunt - which made me wonder how much they actually know about the things they write about.

On that note comes my biggest issue with this book: closed practices. The author throws around lore and celebrations of midwinter from a host of different belief systems, and never once did they say that anything was a closed practice. Rather, it gave ideas on how ti use those traditions in your own way, and that is problematic!

I do have the rest of this series, but I honestly don't know if I feel comfortable reading them anymore, knowing what I now know

[Beth]

I bought this little book on a whim because it was being advertised heavily--along with the 7 other "Sabbat Essentials"--on Facebook. Though I was raised in a Christian tradition, celebrate Christmas, and am not Wiccan, I have always had an interest in how things were before Christianity and other major religions were spread, particularly around the Winter Solstice. This book was exactly what I wanted. Here is why:

--It is small and instantly feels good in your hands
--It does a nice job of giving background for how people all over the world have celebrated the winter solstice (particularly in the northern hemisphere)
--Ditto an exploration of how people celebrate it now
--rich sections on uses of particular elements of the season (e.g. the yule log, mistletoe, particular scents and colors, etc.)

In addition to these things, there is a section that explores rituals, prayers, and practices that practitioners of Wicca or neo paganism might find useful. There is also a useful bibliography.

I was so pleased with the book that I will likely investigate the others that highlight practices for other days/season of note on the Wheel of the Year.

This book will appeal to those readers who are interested in seasonal celebrations throughout the year, history, ritual, and the things that make us similar instead of different.

[Christine Whittington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maybe 4 1/2. This is one of the 8 books in the excellent Llewellyn series about the Wheel of the year. I loved the parts about the ancient history of Solstice and Yule and suggestions for how to appreciate and observe the season. The book has especially important things about embracing the dark time of the years and urge to hibernate rather than fighting our natural inclination to be more introspective and contemplative. I'm not sure if this resistance contributes to SAD, but would not be surprised. Less useful for me are detailed instructions about rituals, because I'm not that much of a structured person. But that's just me. I love the idea of a having a Yule log and extending the life of the Yule tree by decorating it with cranberries and peanuts and putting it out for wildlife. The deep and dark beauty of winter has always been far more compelling to me that the cacophony of Santa and all that! I am looking forward to reading the additional books in the series, starting with Imboc. Bring on the Groundhog!

I loved Susan Pesznecker's warm style--like talking about Yule activities with a friend. Some reviewers noted that the book is not academic. It is not; it is much more conversational and casual--witty in places.

[Gwen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one. As usual, the ritual/prayer parts aren't my favorite, however, I love the history in this one, especially the etymology of the word Yule (and other related words). I really enjoyed this author's writing style. It's one of the better written books in this series. I really have felt a strong nostalgia for Christmas during the COVID-19 pandemic. I actually get the whole Christmas in July phenomenon this year. My Christmas tree is still up! I disagree that it's bad luck to leave your tree up after Twelfth Night (January 5th). I also disagree with the admonition to never blow out a candle.

[gaymoonreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It is so helpful whenever it comes to planning out what you are going to do on the Winter Solstice or during Yule. There were so many really interesting and thorough information and recipes, crafts, lore, rituals, spells, prayers and so much packed in this little book that was so helpful when planning out what I personally am doing for Yule, and it just made me even more excited to celebrate this Sabbat. I just think this is a really helpful book, and I definitely recommend it!

[Cole · Rating 2 out of 5]

First of this collection that I have read in full.

Good books but there are many parts that you can skip over until the right time to read them; mainly I'm referring to recipes, decorations and some ritual here. I would prefer slightly more information on the festival and the surrounding literature and mythology.

Still, a good book and worthwhile to have around to refer to.

[Naomi Ruth · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is really more of a 3.5 than a 3, but not quite a 4.

Good background on Yule, great craft ideas, very useful over all. I'd be willing to read/own the other books in this series.

[Juli Anna · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not my favorite in this series, unfortunately, but I liked many of the craft ideas.

[BibliofiendLM · Rating 2 out of 5]

Informative but I just cannot put myself through finishing the audio.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book; my favorite of the series. I enjoyed Pesznecker's writing style and how approachable many of the activities are.

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the first part but then got a little repetitive. Lots of good easy and attainable ideas!

[Michelle Countway · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good for a beginner (me) on pagan or natural holidays, wheel of the year, etc! Lots of interesting tidbits, and lots resonated with me and my feelings on winter / holiday celebrations. Some of the rituals and things seemed a bit surface level or convenient; but I really enjoyed reading this and learning about Yule ✨ Looking forward to reading the rest of this series!

[Gema (gemaspring_) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Para mi ha sido un libro súper interesante, creo que nunca había puesto tantos post it en un libro. Yo leí la edición de Arcopress y me ha encantado.

Es cierto que soy principiante en todo lo relacionado con los 8 sabbats, así que si también lo sois os lo recomiendo mucho. Cuenta con un montón de apretados, desde teoría sobre los orígenes de Yule, tradiciones antiguas y modernas, rituales y hechizos, recetas y mucho más.

Es un libro de 200 páginas pero donde hay 0 relleno y todo es información valiosa, tanto teórica como práctica. A mi me ha gustado mucho la verdad. Es el primero que leo de la colección pero no será el último.

Con ganas de aplicar lo aprendido en la celebración del solsticio ✨

[Kelli · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the Samhain book in this series a little more since I felt like it focused better on the traditions both old and new. This book integrates Christianity more but also seems wishy-washy on it something is a tradition of Yule or just might be.

[Samantha Strong · Rating 4 out of 5]

This felt fairly well researched, but the Samhain book in this series seemed to have way more in it. I was hoping for more of everything -- crafts, prayers, rituals.

[Sarah Jensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: Yule: Rituals, Recipes & Lore for the Winter Solstice by Susan Pesznecker
(A Woman’s Perspective on Seasonal Spirituality and Reclaiming the Dark)

Susan Pesznecker’s Yule: Rituals, Recipes & Lore for the Winter Solstice, part of Llewellyn’s Sabbat Essentials series, is a luminous exploration of the Winter Solstice as a time of introspection, renewal, and feminine resilience. Written with a scholar’s precision and a witch’s intuition, the book bridges folklore, practical magic, and seasonal living—offering women a roadmap to honor the sacred darkness and emerging light of Yule.

Key Themes and Strengths
Embracing the Dark as Sacred
Pesznecker reframes the long nights of Yule not as something to endure but as a sacred pause for womb-like introspection. Her rituals (e.g., candle meditations, darkness vigils) encourage women to honor cyclical rest, mirroring the earth’s hibernation—a radical act in a productivity-obsessed culture. This perspective resonates deeply with those reclaiming rest as resistance.

Recipes as Ancestral Wisdom
The book’s recipes (wassail, solstice bread, spiced mead) are more than instructions; they are edible spells connecting modern women to generations of hearthkeepers. Pesznecker emphasizes cooking as a ritual of nourishment, blending practicality with enchantment—ideal for those who see the kitchen as an altar.

Feminine Archetypes and Yule Lore
The text highlights feminine figures of Yule (the Crone, the Midwife of the Sun) and lesser-known folklore, offering a counterpoint to male-centric solstice narratives. This inclusion fosters a sense of lineage and empowerment for women crafting their own traditions.

Adaptable Rituals for Modern Lives
Recognizing the time constraints faced by many women, Pesznecker provides scalable rituals—from elaborate group ceremonies to five-minute solitary practices. Her “Yule Bath Spell” and “Solstice Journal Prompts” exemplify how spirituality can be woven into fragmented daily routines.

Eclectic yet Grounded Approach
While rooted in European traditions, the book welcomes eclectic adaptations, inviting readers to blend cultural lore with personal intuition. This flexibility respects diverse spiritual paths while maintaining scholarly rigor.

Critique
The book’s Eurocentric focus, though well-researched, could benefit from acknowledging broader global solstice traditions (e.g., Dongzhi in Chinese culture, Inti Raymi in the Andes). Additionally, while Pesznecker’s prose is accessible, some academic readers may crave deeper anthropological analysis of the gendered history of Yule customs.

Conclusion
Yule: Rituals, Recipes & Lore for the Winter Solstice is a vital companion for women seeking to celebrate the solstice with both reverence and practicality. Pesznecker’s work is a torch in the winter dark—guiding readers to find magic in stillness, wisdom in darkness, and joy in the returning light.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
A scholarly yet soulful guide that transforms Yule into a deeply personal and feminist spiritual practice.

[Ay Oh Be · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pre-Reading: Since I started my exploration of spirituality I have had these books (it's an 8 book set) suggested to me numerous times. Since I enjoy the Christmas season I thought I would start with Yule!

During Reading: I read this book accompanied by a highlighter and pen. There were so many things I wanted to remember. Here are three:
"There is a sense that the earth is sleeping and that the natural world is gathering force and working quiet magick as it awaits the coming of spring."
"Giving gifts shows that we care for each other's well-being and are committed to helping each other survive the long, cold winter."
"One of winter's greatest gifts is that of quiet: a feeling of silence, calmness, inward-drawing, and introspection. It's a chance to pull out of the hustle and bustle of daily life and slow down."

After Reading: I am not sure there really is an "after reading" for this book. With all it's tabs and highlights I know I will come back to it.
The guide is very easy to read and well organized. The writing is very clear and concise. The author is very conscious and respectful as she guides the reader through potential rituals and celebrations there are reminders about checking with people's boundaries. As with most witchcraft books Pesznecker reminds the reader that they are not constrained by the rituals, spells or meditations that are described and that you are welcome to make alterations and do what feels right for you.
To me the most valuable thing in the book was it's framing of winter. That it encourages the reader to accept the gifts of this season and to adjust their lives accordingly. Many of us wish away winter and hide from it's cold, darkness instead of embracing it's crisp air, stark colours and chances for quiet reflection. While I am guilty is always wishing for warmth I am going to try and shift my mindset and be grateful for the turning of the seasons. I would like to appreciate the opportunities to reflect and plan in the darkness while celebrating the return of the sun.

I am intend to collect the rest of this set.

[Bravebook · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Yule" to już jeden z ostatnich tomów tej serii, nad czym ubolewam, bo uwielbiam zawarte w niej ciekawostki, informacje, a także zawsze wyczekiwałam odsłon okładek nowego wydania!

Jedna z autorek przybliża nam Yule, święto związane z przesileniem zimowym. Było ono obchodzone już w czasach starożytnych, co prawda w innej formie niż obecnie, ale silnie zaznaczyło się w wielu kulturach i przetrwało po dziś.

Z treści możemy dowiedzieć się o tym jak było obchodzone setki i tysiące lat temu w różnych zakątkach świata, do jakiej bogini zwracały się skandynawskie kobiety z prośbą o płodność w tym czasie, jak przerabiano stare wersje obrzędów tego sabatu na nową modłę, jak się zmieniało, jakie warianty przyjmowało w różnych kulturach, a także jak obchodzone jest współcześnie w różnych zakątkach świata - np. W Japonii czy Meksyku.

Oprócz tego niezmiennie możemy liczyć na garść ciekawostek o symbolach tego święta - co oznaczają świece? Jakie znaczenie mają zimowe kolory? Z jakimi bóstwami jest kojarzone Yule? Jakim zwierzętom przypisywano w tym czasie świętość? W zależności od miejsca na kuli ziemskiej mógł być to np. Jeleń, koń, wół lub świnia.

Autorka przekazuje również nieco informacji o żywych drzewkach na okres świąt czy zawiłości związanych z kalendarzem i umiejscowieniem tego święta.

Jak zwykle możemy też liczyć na opisy wróżb, zaklęć, rytuałów, przepisów oraz inspiracji do rękodzieła na ten czas.

Gorąco polecam Wam tę serię oraz ten konkretny tom, bo bardzo dobrze mi się go czytało 😍 te książki to dosyć duża ilość skompresowanej wiedzy na temat poszczególnych świąt pogańskich, ale też zachęta do samodzielnego zgłębiania tematu!✨

[Denise みか Hutchins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ha ha, only took me a year to finish this. It's not the book's fault, though. I savored it last holiday season, but once the season was over and I had only half-finished, I didn't feel like reading it until the weather got cold and the nights long again. As an atheist who finds spiritual practice enriching and enlightening--a way to organize my thoughts, express my feelings, and even connect with others--I found this book generally inspiring. There were some moments when it went so far down the mystical road that I found myself balking, but for the most part, everything here was quite down-to-earth and I've even ingrained some of the practices into my life (such as boiling spices to freshen the air in my home--so lovely!) and shared some of the book's ideas with friends and family. The last chapters with rituals and meditations really inspired me. Now I have some fun, meaningful, and accessible ideas for a fireside New Year's welcoming party!

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting intro guide to Yule and a brief history about the practices that are involved with the Winter Solstice. I enjoyed the narrators voice and listening to the histories and practices since most people don't understand the symbolism of the Tree and all the other symbols at the different solstices that have been absorbed into Christian holidays.
The recipes, rituals and spells section I may need to get a copy of the physical book though I was able to take notes. It reminds you to pause and get a pen etc.
My daughters and I used the sugar cookie recipe while making our cutout cookies this weekend and I want to make some of the dream pillow magical bags. I have trouble sleeping and then with bad dreams so any help will be appreciated
This calming spiritual book was relaxing and had some very useful items I want to try and add to my purse and nighttime routine.

Thank you for letting me listen!

[Britta · Rating 3 out of 5]

Yule by Susan Pesznecker and Llewellyn is a basic primer about Yule and the Winter Solstice. The first half of the book focused on the old ways and new ways in terms of traditions and celebrations around Yule. However, there wasn't much depth to these discussions but there are recommendations for further reading. Some I definitely want to read more about!

The second half focuses more on the ways to celebrate through rituals, crafts, spells, etc. Again, this book is designed to just brush the surface of the myriad of ways to celebrate and appreciate the Winter Solstice. Given its pocket book size and high level discussions, I'd recommend this to anyone who is even remotely interested in learning about the Winter Solstice or the Wheel of the Year.

While I don't identify as a Pagan or witch at this time, this definitely gives me a lot to think about! Especially given I don't practice any religion but have been looking for ways to connect with nature and spirit.