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Traditional Wicca: A Seeker's Guide
A Down-to-Earth Guide to Traditional Wicca While there are many powerful variations of contemporary Witchcraft, traditional Wicca offers unique experiences for those who seek it out. This book explores structured, coven-based styles of Wicca, in which the practitioners typically trace initiatory lineages back to Wicca's early founders. Discussing covens, initiations, lineages, practices, ethics, and more, Traditional Wicca shares tips and ideas on how to get the most from this profound approach to Witchcraft. Discover how to recognize healthy, reputable covens. Learn how to navigate the process of asking for training and succeeding in an outer court. Explore the spiritual strength of lineages, hierarchies, and initiation. This book also includes contributions from several practitioners, providing valuable first-person perspectives on what it's like to be on the traditional Wiccan path. Praise : "Like the bristles of a besom, Thorn Mooney's Traditional Wicca sweeps through the subject of Witchcraft removing the dust and dirt of ignorance and prejudice to reveal the true heart of Wicca. Thorn writes with obvious sincerity, with feeling, and from experience. Her book covers everything from defining Witchcraft, through the workings of a coven, to actual initiation and beyond. She warns that Wicca is not for everyone and―I am personally delighted to see―includes a chapter on recognizing 'Red Flags' when first contacting others...especially those who might claim to be more than they actually are. This book is the quintessential guide for the true, sincere seeker."―Raymond Buckland, author of Buckland's Complete Book of Witchcraft " Traditional Wicca is a unique and important book. It's amazing to me that in over 70 years of publishing on the subject of Wicca, nothing like this book has ever been written! I'm kind of jealous I didn't think to write it myself. The chapter on initiation is, by itself, worth the cover price. If you want to understand what people mean by 'traditional Wicca,' whether or not you're seeking it, this is the one book you must read."―Deborah Lipp, Wiccan high priestess and author of Merry Meet Again " Traditional Wicca is a topic that few actually understand despite its long and distinguished history. With passion and skill, Thorn delivers a book that many familiar with Wicca will wish they had had when they were studying it, and those who find themselves on the path for the first time will rejoice at having found. Whether you intend to seek initiation or not, this book is full of valuable gems that will enhance any practice at any level. Traditional Wicca is an all-inclusive tour through the history, practices, and lore of traditional Wicca that weaves voices from all over the tradition and challenges everything you think you know about it."―Devin Hunter, author of The Witch's Book of Power "A masterful gem of insight and wisdom, Traditional Wicca reveals the time-honored practices of initiatory Wicca, thought all but lost by many, but hidden like so many occult secrets in plain sight. Drawing a clear and respectful distinction between eclectic Wicca and its older more traditional sibling, Thorn Mooney takes us on a personal journey exploring the powers and the pitfalls of the initiatory inner court, revealing the persistence of a thriving and dynamic Craft that is at once orthopraxic and changing, traditional and experimental. With practical advice for the seeker, peppered with personal anecdotes from several practitioners and initiates alike, this book is a much-needed map...Highly recommended."―Storm Faerywolf, author of Betwixt and Between
216 pages, Paperback
Published July 8, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
May 23, 2018
The writing is wonderful, the author never talks down to the reader and instead feels like they're right there talking to you. I enjoyed this book even though it was not quite what I was expecting. It really focuses on covens more than anything else and I have no desire to be with a coven, tried once and it was not for me. So if you're looking into a coven, wondering how to go about it, how to even find one in the first place: this book is for you. Otherwise... there really isn't much more here.
*Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review*
*Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review*
October 8, 2025
3.5 Stars This book was not about what I thought it was going to be about. I was hoping to learn more about the practice of Traditional Wicca. And this was addressed very vaguely and shortly. But the main focus of the book was about how to find and get into a coven, which is not really of interest to me. I think the advice about doing that is worthwhile, but even a lot of that seems sort of common sense to me: be polite, keep your word, listen more than you talk, and don’t give up. Pretty basic.
Anyway, if your objective is to join a coven in one of the Traditional Wiccan rites, I’d recommend this book. Otherwise. It might not give you what you hope.
Anyway, if your objective is to join a coven in one of the Traditional Wiccan rites, I’d recommend this book. Otherwise. It might not give you what you hope.
March 15, 2018
Traditional Wicca by Thorn Mooney
Review by Dawn Thomas
216 Pages
Publisher: Llewellyn Worldwide, Ltd.
Publication Date: July 8, 2018
Nonfiction (Adult), Religion, Spirituality
Thorn Mooney wrote her first book on witchcraft when she was a teenager before heading off to college. Later she realized she did not know everything she thought she did on the subject and began searching. As a Dianic, I am always interested in learning about other traditions. Thorn is a Gardnerian and practices traditional Wicca / Witchcraft. She explains the misconceptions people have about them as a group.
In this book, the author takes the time to delve into many topics under the Wicca / Witchcraft umbrella. She discusses the origins of Wicca by Gerald Gardner and his influences from folklore, magic and his travels. She includes information on the structure and positions within covens along with its function. There is an exercise with a list of questions for prospective initiates.
This is a great book for anyone interested in learning more about an initiatory path in traditional Wicca. I liked the author’s writing style. It was easy to read and understand.
Review by Dawn Thomas
216 Pages
Publisher: Llewellyn Worldwide, Ltd.
Publication Date: July 8, 2018
Nonfiction (Adult), Religion, Spirituality
Thorn Mooney wrote her first book on witchcraft when she was a teenager before heading off to college. Later she realized she did not know everything she thought she did on the subject and began searching. As a Dianic, I am always interested in learning about other traditions. Thorn is a Gardnerian and practices traditional Wicca / Witchcraft. She explains the misconceptions people have about them as a group.
In this book, the author takes the time to delve into many topics under the Wicca / Witchcraft umbrella. She discusses the origins of Wicca by Gerald Gardner and his influences from folklore, magic and his travels. She includes information on the structure and positions within covens along with its function. There is an exercise with a list of questions for prospective initiates.
This is a great book for anyone interested in learning more about an initiatory path in traditional Wicca. I liked the author’s writing style. It was easy to read and understand.
April 3, 2018
I cannot praise this book enough! At last!! A book about Traditional Wicca. No filler. All killer information. Written in such a friendly and straightforward way which reminds me of the Silver RavenWolf books which those of you who know me know I am a freaking huge fan of. It's chock-full of helpful insights and nuggets of wisdom for the Seeker. I especially love how it outlines the importance of knowing what to expect when you approach a group for training and the rule of self-protection. If something doesn't feel right or goes against your belief then you are free to leave and walk away! Don't be forced into anything by anyone. It is a book that does not force an agenda. It gives freely of its knowledge in the hopes that it inspires and aids the Seeker in progressing on in their journey. It discusses the real workings of a Coven, Initiation, Hierarchy, Lineage and lots more in the Traditional Wiccan sphere. This book is going to be a great primer for the Seeker and I would have been so happy to have had this book 20+ years ago when I first started on my journey. I'm grateful to have read it now.
August 27, 2020
“I can only ever teach what I know and offer what experience I have. What I wouldn’t do, I told them, was be their mother, their foreman, or their therapist. I’m not any of those things. As a third degree, I had made a commitment to my gods and to my community, and all I could do was show them how and why I did those things. If other people felt called to this as I did, I could show them the way as it was shown to me. I wouldn’t be a mediator between them and the gods; I would simply model the techniques for reaching those gods so that they could do so themselves. In turn, they would respect that experience. If they had felt they could do it on their own, presumably they wouldn’t have asked me to begin with. Should they change their minds, they could leave at any time. If anything, my real position in the hierarchy is the one of service. My initiates don’t serve me; I serve them. I may be the high priestess, and I may call most of the shots, but I’m also the one cleaning the toilets.”
““Orthopraxy” derives from Greek and means “right practice.” In usage, it stands in contrast to “orthodoxy,” which means “right belief.” Traditional Wicca tends toward orthopraxy. Belief is not enough. You cannot simply think or feel a certain way. It’s not a matter of reading about certain ideas and holding them to be true in your heart. An orthopraxic perspective demands that adherents take action. For traditional Wicca, that means performing the rites of the tradition. (...) There’s something about the Mysteries that transcends language, or so practitioners often insist. In short, traditional Wicca isn’t something you can simply read about. It’s not just something you believe in. It’s something that you do”
I loved this book. This became one of my favourite books about Wicca. I already loved the author, so I had that in my favour. But her writing is simply amazing. So... this is not a book to teach you Wicca!. This is a book for those who already know they want to be part of a Wiccan coven and it's a guide to those seeking said covens. How it works, how to apply to the groups, advices, reflections, etc. It's fantastic really. It's fantastic to see Wicca through the eyes of a Gardnerian Priestess. It completely changed my views on Gardnerian Wicca and it helped me deal with a lot of uncomfortable stuff I had inside regarding group work.
I highly HIGHLY recommend this book, it's the best I've read this year!
““Orthopraxy” derives from Greek and means “right practice.” In usage, it stands in contrast to “orthodoxy,” which means “right belief.” Traditional Wicca tends toward orthopraxy. Belief is not enough. You cannot simply think or feel a certain way. It’s not a matter of reading about certain ideas and holding them to be true in your heart. An orthopraxic perspective demands that adherents take action. For traditional Wicca, that means performing the rites of the tradition. (...) There’s something about the Mysteries that transcends language, or so practitioners often insist. In short, traditional Wicca isn’t something you can simply read about. It’s not just something you believe in. It’s something that you do”
I loved this book. This became one of my favourite books about Wicca. I already loved the author, so I had that in my favour. But her writing is simply amazing. So... this is not a book to teach you Wicca!. This is a book for those who already know they want to be part of a Wiccan coven and it's a guide to those seeking said covens. How it works, how to apply to the groups, advices, reflections, etc. It's fantastic really. It's fantastic to see Wicca through the eyes of a Gardnerian Priestess. It completely changed my views on Gardnerian Wicca and it helped me deal with a lot of uncomfortable stuff I had inside regarding group work.
I highly HIGHLY recommend this book, it's the best I've read this year!
October 12, 2018
If you are looking for a clear explanation of lineaged, initiatory witchcraft, this is it. If you are looking for a coven, thinking of joining a coven, or merely curious, I would recommend reading this book. Even if you are an experienced Wiccan initiate, you could benefit from the perspectives offered in this book.
If your coven is open to seekers, this book should go straight to the top of your recommended reading list, for seekers, new initiates, and even old hands. It's clearly written, engaging, well-structured, and scholarly. The reference to traditional Wicca in the title refers to lineaged, initiatory Wiccan traditions with a degree system and a shared body of lore and rituals.
The book first of all describes what traditional Wicca is, what distinguishes it from non-lineaged and non-initiatory forms of Wicca and witchcraft, and a bit about its history.
Mooney does an excellent job of clearing up some of the major misconceptions about Wicca. One of these is the purpose of the degree system (I and several others also liken it to the guild system of apprentice, journeyman, master). She tackles the concept of hierarchy in this system very well indeed. I've always shied away from the word hierarchy, but she tackles it head-on, and does a great job of rehabilitating it.
Another source of angst and misunderstanding is the practice of working skyclad. The section discussing this is excellent, indeed one of the best I have read, and explains it really well.
I also liked the section on initiation and what makes it different from self-initiation (again, similar to my own ideas on the subject). My take is that self-initiation may confer psychological transformation and an encounter with the gods, but by definition, it cannot confer group membership, lineage, or access to the knowledge of a specific tradition. Mooney does an excellent job of explaining the academic theory around the concept of initiation, too.
There's an important section about red flags and safety, many of which are similar to the red flags and safety checks for online dating.
There are some things that I would have given more emphasis to, and other things that I would have given less emphasis to, but that's why more than one book about the Craft exists!
It must also be stated that this book is about seeking and joining a coven in the USA, where there are numerous other witchcraft and Wiccan traditions besides the ones that are available in the UK. There are also slight differences of practice and emphasis between Wicca in Britain, Canada, the USA, and Europe. As this book is written by an American, the emphasis is primarily on the Craft in the USA.
However, the key points, such as the distinguishing features of traditional Wicca, what makes a good coven, which seekers are likely to be successful at finding a coven, and the etiquette of seeking and being in a coven, are all commonalities across cultures.
One bit that made me laugh out loud in sympathy was the observation that the best asset of every seeker is good manners - this is so, so true. Lazy and entitled people don't make good initiates.
There are so many great things about this book (and I'm not just saying all these nice things because my book is listed in the recommended reading - I genuinely think this is a super helpful book).
There are also some beautiful poetic evocations of being in a Wiccan circle, and some really helpful magical and life advice, including a lovely section on the Witches' Pyramid for new initiates.
The checklist of questions for seekers to ask themselves, and the outline of what to put in an initial inquiry email, are also really good.
If all coven leaders, seekers, trainees, and initiates took the advice in this book to heart, it would save a lot of hassle.
Buy it, read it, recommend it to your friends!
If your coven is open to seekers, this book should go straight to the top of your recommended reading list, for seekers, new initiates, and even old hands. It's clearly written, engaging, well-structured, and scholarly. The reference to traditional Wicca in the title refers to lineaged, initiatory Wiccan traditions with a degree system and a shared body of lore and rituals.
The book first of all describes what traditional Wicca is, what distinguishes it from non-lineaged and non-initiatory forms of Wicca and witchcraft, and a bit about its history.
Mooney does an excellent job of clearing up some of the major misconceptions about Wicca. One of these is the purpose of the degree system (I and several others also liken it to the guild system of apprentice, journeyman, master). She tackles the concept of hierarchy in this system very well indeed. I've always shied away from the word hierarchy, but she tackles it head-on, and does a great job of rehabilitating it.
Another source of angst and misunderstanding is the practice of working skyclad. The section discussing this is excellent, indeed one of the best I have read, and explains it really well.
I also liked the section on initiation and what makes it different from self-initiation (again, similar to my own ideas on the subject). My take is that self-initiation may confer psychological transformation and an encounter with the gods, but by definition, it cannot confer group membership, lineage, or access to the knowledge of a specific tradition. Mooney does an excellent job of explaining the academic theory around the concept of initiation, too.
There's an important section about red flags and safety, many of which are similar to the red flags and safety checks for online dating.
There are some things that I would have given more emphasis to, and other things that I would have given less emphasis to, but that's why more than one book about the Craft exists!
It must also be stated that this book is about seeking and joining a coven in the USA, where there are numerous other witchcraft and Wiccan traditions besides the ones that are available in the UK. There are also slight differences of practice and emphasis between Wicca in Britain, Canada, the USA, and Europe. As this book is written by an American, the emphasis is primarily on the Craft in the USA.
However, the key points, such as the distinguishing features of traditional Wicca, what makes a good coven, which seekers are likely to be successful at finding a coven, and the etiquette of seeking and being in a coven, are all commonalities across cultures.
One bit that made me laugh out loud in sympathy was the observation that the best asset of every seeker is good manners - this is so, so true. Lazy and entitled people don't make good initiates.
There are so many great things about this book (and I'm not just saying all these nice things because my book is listed in the recommended reading - I genuinely think this is a super helpful book).
There are also some beautiful poetic evocations of being in a Wiccan circle, and some really helpful magical and life advice, including a lovely section on the Witches' Pyramid for new initiates.
The checklist of questions for seekers to ask themselves, and the outline of what to put in an initial inquiry email, are also really good.
If all coven leaders, seekers, trainees, and initiates took the advice in this book to heart, it would save a lot of hassle.
Buy it, read it, recommend it to your friends!
August 2, 2018
I have followed Thorn Mooney for sometime in the Pagan community. Knowing she is such a wealth of academic and experiential knowledge, I couldn't wait to read this book! I was not disappointed. Thorn's writing style is captivating yet practical. She delivered incredibly valuable information about Traditional Wicca, coven practice, etc. in a way that felt accessible and relatable. This book pulled me back to the excitement and purity of 90's witchcraft; the thrill of the search and the reverence for the path. I am not a Wiccan nor do I practice a Traditional path, yet I find this book invaluable. I will continue to recommend this everyone I know, regardless of their Pagan leanings. Absolutely loved it!
November 22, 2019
A book that probably confirmes Traditional Gardinarian Wicca is not for me. Thorn is a licensed hunter, we discover on p143 an activity she concedes many find reprehensible. I am one such person so I wish I'd been aware of this fact before purchasing the book. Most of us who find hunting abhorrent (as a great many who identify as Wiccan, Pagan or Witches will) would not knowingly purchase anything written by someone who takes part in such abhorrent pastimes.
If you don't take issue with her choice of hobby however and seek to read a detailed, didactic description of Traditional Wicca then you will find it most interesting.
If you don't take issue with her choice of hobby however and seek to read a detailed, didactic description of Traditional Wicca then you will find it most interesting.
March 5, 2020
Thorn Mooney’s “Little Blue Book” is a welcome revitalization that Wicca has been looking for.
Most books to be found on Wicca tend to focus on the solitary practice of it (that is not a judgement statement) and less can be found on what a coven practice looks like. Most of today’s content around Wicca also seems to be regurgitated Scott-Cunningham-esque information, making it look like Wicca hasn’t changed much since Cunningham came on the scene. This means that most of what you can find on most traditional coven based practices is so dated, it makes it seem that coven-based Traditional Wicca is a relic of some distant past.
Thorn’s book breathes new life in the understanding of Traditional Wicca. From what “Wicca” is to how a coven operates, to how to seek out a coven, this book shows how Traditional Wicca is still alive and well, and how you can find your way to it.
The first section deals with some of the misunderstandings, misgivings, and issues people face when looking at training in a traditional setting. She guides you through what “authority” looks like in a healthy coven setting, how not all coven members “believe” the same things, and debunks the idea that you somehow lose all of your autonomy when initiated into a coven. Even if the idea of being in a coven makes your skin crawl, this section is worth the price of admission if you want to round out your ideas about Wicca and covens. This is where Thorn shows her religious scholar hat, but she does so in such an empathetic and understandable way, you don’t feel like you’re reading a boring scholarly text.
The second part is all practicum. How do you find a coven? How do you petition for training when you find one (hint: don’t be a dick!)? What kind of red flags do you look for? Not every group is going to be right for you, even if they aren’t abusive, and the way Thorn guides you through the process showcases her personal experiences as a high priestess that gets “on the level” with seekers.
I’m going to finish by kind-of mimicking Thorn’s way of doing Instagram reviews--I’m going to make a list!
This book is for you if--
-You’re seeking formal training in a coven based practice (I don’t make the distinction of Wiccan practice, as I find that Thorn’s advice for finding a coven can be easily applied to any group)
-You are curious about what Traditional Wicca is versus what you think Wicca is.
-You’re a coven leader.
This book may not be for you if--
-You have a preconceived notion of Wicca that you obstinately won’t let go (jokes)
-Your response to seeing this book is not all witches are Wiccan (more jokes)
-OKAY SERIOUSLY. If you have had some really bad and traumatizing experiences with groups, this book focus’ on group practices, so skip it until you feel like that is something you can read.
Most books to be found on Wicca tend to focus on the solitary practice of it (that is not a judgement statement) and less can be found on what a coven practice looks like. Most of today’s content around Wicca also seems to be regurgitated Scott-Cunningham-esque information, making it look like Wicca hasn’t changed much since Cunningham came on the scene. This means that most of what you can find on most traditional coven based practices is so dated, it makes it seem that coven-based Traditional Wicca is a relic of some distant past.
Thorn’s book breathes new life in the understanding of Traditional Wicca. From what “Wicca” is to how a coven operates, to how to seek out a coven, this book shows how Traditional Wicca is still alive and well, and how you can find your way to it.
The first section deals with some of the misunderstandings, misgivings, and issues people face when looking at training in a traditional setting. She guides you through what “authority” looks like in a healthy coven setting, how not all coven members “believe” the same things, and debunks the idea that you somehow lose all of your autonomy when initiated into a coven. Even if the idea of being in a coven makes your skin crawl, this section is worth the price of admission if you want to round out your ideas about Wicca and covens. This is where Thorn shows her religious scholar hat, but she does so in such an empathetic and understandable way, you don’t feel like you’re reading a boring scholarly text.
The second part is all practicum. How do you find a coven? How do you petition for training when you find one (hint: don’t be a dick!)? What kind of red flags do you look for? Not every group is going to be right for you, even if they aren’t abusive, and the way Thorn guides you through the process showcases her personal experiences as a high priestess that gets “on the level” with seekers.
I’m going to finish by kind-of mimicking Thorn’s way of doing Instagram reviews--I’m going to make a list!
This book is for you if--
-You’re seeking formal training in a coven based practice (I don’t make the distinction of Wiccan practice, as I find that Thorn’s advice for finding a coven can be easily applied to any group)
-You are curious about what Traditional Wicca is versus what you think Wicca is.
-You’re a coven leader.
This book may not be for you if--
-You have a preconceived notion of Wicca that you obstinately won’t let go (jokes)
-Your response to seeing this book is not all witches are Wiccan (more jokes)
-OKAY SERIOUSLY. If you have had some really bad and traumatizing experiences with groups, this book focus’ on group practices, so skip it until you feel like that is something you can read.
May 7, 2019
I've always wanted to learn about traditional Wicca and this book offered me a wonderful starting point. Thorn's writing is nerdy and enthusiastic and draws the reader in. I'm thinking that people who read this are already interested in the subject matter, but I think this would also be a great read for anyone who enjoys reading about different faiths and religions. :)
October 31, 2024
Sensible and well-informed, aimed at the beginning seeker
August 4, 2021
This book is not about Wicca. It's about finding what you want out of it and how to connect with healthy covens. Also helpful in general for finding spiritual groups because a lot of the information is about people in general.
July 12, 2024
It is a reasonable guide.
April 18, 2018
I misunderstood what this book was about when I originally picked it up - I expected more info about what exactly Traditional Wicca is and what it's practitioners do; however, this is more of a guide for people already familiar with it who are looking to join a coven of practicing Traditional Wiccans. For that purpose, this is a really thorough and thoughtful guide, but I was a bit lost at points without the more basic information. That being said, this was a really interesting read.
*Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC, provided by the author and/or the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
*Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC, provided by the author and/or the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 5, 2018
Very detailed book that has showed me I am definitely not a traditonal Wiccan.
May 8, 2020
Thorn is a great writer and this book reflects her firm knowledge about the Wiccan Tradition from her many years as a practicing Wiccan and her experience as a High Priestess of a traditional Wiccan religion herself. If you are curious about Wicca or thinking about joining a Traditional Wiccan coven, I highly recommend reading this book as Thorn gives a clearly written overview about what Wicca is and isn't, the difference between Wicca and Witchcraft, how traditional Wiccan religions function, and a history of Wicca's revival in Europe and the United States.
She also gives advice for how to find out if the Wiccan practice is for you (with questions to help you figure it out), aheads up about time commitments necessary, how to decide if a coven is good fit for you, what to expect when searching for a coven, a summarized dedicate and initiation process into Traditional Wiccan Practices, and the trails and tribulations you may come across when searching for the right Wiccan Coven.
Within all of this, she warns that you should not be used for sexual favors, or exploited in anyway by your High Priestess or High Priets to be initiated into any Traditional Wiccan religions. If you are, run away. FAST. Wicca is not a "everyone should drink the Koolaide" kind of practice. It is about reclaiming your own personal power and enhancing your life through hardwork, dedication to healthy living, and a continuous commitment to self development.
Another great thing she outlines in her book are the details about the religion of Wicca as a orthopraxy where the beliefs of each person stay as unique and personalized as they wish!
She really hits home the idea that, although each individual Wiccan coven together may pay homage to Goddess and God unique to that traditional, a practicing Wiccan's personal beliefs are unique to them and can be practiced within any Traditional Wiccan practice. She gives an example of her High Priets who "a bit of an agnostic" and some of her members are animists.
The thing I would of loved for her to elaborate on further is why she did not think a practicing vegan was right for her own coven.
She is a clear writer and I loved reading as well as learning from her book!
She also gives advice for how to find out if the Wiccan practice is for you (with questions to help you figure it out), aheads up about time commitments necessary, how to decide if a coven is good fit for you, what to expect when searching for a coven, a summarized dedicate and initiation process into Traditional Wiccan Practices, and the trails and tribulations you may come across when searching for the right Wiccan Coven.
Within all of this, she warns that you should not be used for sexual favors, or exploited in anyway by your High Priestess or High Priets to be initiated into any Traditional Wiccan religions. If you are, run away. FAST. Wicca is not a "everyone should drink the Koolaide" kind of practice. It is about reclaiming your own personal power and enhancing your life through hardwork, dedication to healthy living, and a continuous commitment to self development.
Another great thing she outlines in her book are the details about the religion of Wicca as a orthopraxy where the beliefs of each person stay as unique and personalized as they wish!
She really hits home the idea that, although each individual Wiccan coven together may pay homage to Goddess and God unique to that traditional, a practicing Wiccan's personal beliefs are unique to them and can be practiced within any Traditional Wiccan practice. She gives an example of her High Priets who "a bit of an agnostic" and some of her members are animists.
The thing I would of loved for her to elaborate on further is why she did not think a practicing vegan was right for her own coven.
She is a clear writer and I loved reading as well as learning from her book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2020
I am not a Wiccan, but in my own eclectic Path it is impossible to say I’m not influenced by Wiccan belief, which is why I wanted to read this book. I heard author Thorn Mooney on a podcast, Down at the Crossroads, and it made me want to read her book. Incidentally I’m joining a Zoom book club discussion of it this week! Weird how the world works.
This book is definitely a good read for anyone on any path of witchcraft. It is not heavy handed or fluffy, it’s direct and honest. Mooney’s writing is personal and accessible without sacrificing passion or intent. Some parts had a few too many analogies or over-explanations, but I think those parts would be necessary for true seekers, her intended audience.
The organization of the hook is less about “this is Wicca” than “this is how Wicca functions in traditional coventry”. Which is not a bad thing; but if you want to know what wiccans believe and how to practice this is not that book. It’s a book about how to seek Wiccan traditional covens and how to research and explore to see what path is right for you. It does discuss some basic tenets and what they mean to a Wiccan specifically which was helpful, but no discussion of altars or calling quarters which felt odd.
One thing I had hoped she would explain, but did not, was how witchcraft is often feminine or matriarchal, but Gardnerian and traditional witchcraft are rooted in masculine figures; Gardner wrote most of the book of shadows himself. As a woman who believes in the Goddess element above all other facets of the Craft, I can’t get behind Wicca for that reason. I was hoping she would explain how she rationalizes with that but she did not.
This book is definitely a good read for anyone on any path of witchcraft. It is not heavy handed or fluffy, it’s direct and honest. Mooney’s writing is personal and accessible without sacrificing passion or intent. Some parts had a few too many analogies or over-explanations, but I think those parts would be necessary for true seekers, her intended audience.
The organization of the hook is less about “this is Wicca” than “this is how Wicca functions in traditional coventry”. Which is not a bad thing; but if you want to know what wiccans believe and how to practice this is not that book. It’s a book about how to seek Wiccan traditional covens and how to research and explore to see what path is right for you. It does discuss some basic tenets and what they mean to a Wiccan specifically which was helpful, but no discussion of altars or calling quarters which felt odd.
One thing I had hoped she would explain, but did not, was how witchcraft is often feminine or matriarchal, but Gardnerian and traditional witchcraft are rooted in masculine figures; Gardner wrote most of the book of shadows himself. As a woman who believes in the Goddess element above all other facets of the Craft, I can’t get behind Wicca for that reason. I was hoping she would explain how she rationalizes with that but she did not.
December 24, 2023
I haven't been this excited about a book on Wicca as I have been for this one. With this comes a certain degree of expectation, of course. I have been following Thorn on YouTube for many years now and always valued her opinion, which usually differed from other Witches I followed on YouTube not working in a Traditional framework. I was sure if anyone could write a down-to-Earth book about Traditional Wicca it'd be Thorn and I was not disappointed. Her style of writing is academic in a digestable way and highly informative. With this Guide for Seekers, Thorn makes a very strong case for Traditional Wicca without disparaging other forms of Witchcraft. I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for formal training as a guide to approach Traditional covens, anyone who has entered Witchcraft in the 90s/2000s (like I did) and have felt a disenchantment towards Wicca due to several controversies in the community (Chapters 6 and 10 were especially eye-opening!), or any Witch in general, even if they have a different point of view. This book reminded me of what it was that drew me in all those years ago and made me re-think my current approach. I will be going back to this book frequently and wish I would have had this when I first studied Wicca.
February 6, 2022
I'm still relatively new to the world of Wicca, Witchcraft, and Magick, but I'm going to let you all in on an esoteric secret that is available to even the most perplexed Neophyte: books have tables of contents. You can view them before deciding to purchase and read a book. In Traditional Wicca, Thorn thoughtfully placed the Table of Contents right at the beginning where it would be readily available to anyone using a "Look Inside" feature. Having decided on the ToC placement, she proceeded by giving each chapter a succinct heading that describes the information contained therein. Being on something of a roll, Thorn didn't stop there! She provided subheadings to further elucidate the topics discussed in Traditional Wicca. It's almost like Thorn deliberately worked to ensure that--within about 30-seconds--we would be apprised of exactly what we were getting into before we got into it...
While I would eagerly devour a book that was Thorn Mooney's version of Wicca 101, Traditional Wicca is not that. It's much more important.
While I would eagerly devour a book that was Thorn Mooney's version of Wicca 101, Traditional Wicca is not that. It's much more important.
March 7, 2024
I found the information, what little was within this book, to be helpful in piquing my interest in traditional wicca. That information, to my recollection, is bits about different veins of traditional wicca, and the basic structure of a coven, and how to find/reach out to a coven.
Unfortunately, I found the author to go on and on, circle-talking me around and around, until finally they'd find their way back to the point. We don't need to pad books like YT videos, there's no ads in here, cut that malarkey out, I honestly hate it. I'm not talking about the 'from the circle' additions either, I am talking about the author themselves and their personal additions to the information. It just carries on forever when it doesn't need to. I'd probably recommend this book to SKIM, because to actually read as I did, it's taxing and tedious to weed through all of Thorn's nonsense jibber jabber.
Unfortunately, I found the author to go on and on, circle-talking me around and around, until finally they'd find their way back to the point. We don't need to pad books like YT videos, there's no ads in here, cut that malarkey out, I honestly hate it. I'm not talking about the 'from the circle' additions either, I am talking about the author themselves and their personal additions to the information. It just carries on forever when it doesn't need to. I'd probably recommend this book to SKIM, because to actually read as I did, it's taxing and tedious to weed through all of Thorn's nonsense jibber jabber.
July 21, 2023
This is a must read if you’re interested in exploring traditional Wicca. The author explains lineage, hierarchy and initiation. The majority of the books does a deep dive looking at covens, specifically finding and joining one. It’s important to have realistic expectations and not to be rushed. The author mentioned some red flags to be aware of when joining a coven. If for some reason if you don’t have any pagan or Wicca groups in your area the author suggests some groups that might be Wiccan adjacent to connect with people.
I also liked that she asks you why you’re interested in traditional Wicca and stress that traditional Wicca is about practicing vs beliefs. Most importantly this book shows that taking this path has it’s rewards but requires time, patience, dedication and a lot of self discovery.
I also liked that she asks you why you’re interested in traditional Wicca and stress that traditional Wicca is about practicing vs beliefs. Most importantly this book shows that taking this path has it’s rewards but requires time, patience, dedication and a lot of self discovery.
March 24, 2020
I’ve seen Thorn on YouTube and wanted to see what her book was. It’s weird. That’s what it is. I was expecting “this is what Wicca is” with circle casting, wheel of the year, God and Goddess and everything else. This is not that.
If you are interested in Wicca, and if you are interested in joining a coven, this book may be of use to you. It does let you know what being in a coven is like. I am not Wiccan, and I don’t want to join a coven. For me, this book is like 2 stars. If you are just starting out and do want to join a coven, maybe it’s 4 stars for you.
I don’t like the structure of the book. I like nonfiction books to be structured like textbooks. I like bullet points, numbered lists, headings and subheadings, and text boxes. I like to skim. This is not a skimming book.
If you are interested in Wicca, and if you are interested in joining a coven, this book may be of use to you. It does let you know what being in a coven is like. I am not Wiccan, and I don’t want to join a coven. For me, this book is like 2 stars. If you are just starting out and do want to join a coven, maybe it’s 4 stars for you.
I don’t like the structure of the book. I like nonfiction books to be structured like textbooks. I like bullet points, numbered lists, headings and subheadings, and text boxes. I like to skim. This is not a skimming book.
July 2, 2018
Traditional Wicca gives a description of the history and modern practices of Wicca. It is told in a straight forward manner, the author explains wicca in an easy to follow manner. It focuses on covens in particular, and I found this to be interesting reading.
This is a terrific book for anyone interested in learning more on wicca and is perfect for complete novices who are only beginning their journey.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. For more reviews please visit my blog:
http://www.wonderfullyweird88.com/
This is a terrific book for anyone interested in learning more on wicca and is perfect for complete novices who are only beginning their journey.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. For more reviews please visit my blog:
http://www.wonderfullyweird88.com/
May 7, 2019
This is a wonderful book, full of first hand experience from Thorn Mooney and a few others, but mostly from Thorn.
I think it is ideal for the solo practitioner ready to take their practice into a group setting. This is the first time I've read something from this perspective. I found it very refreshing. I've been consuming many books on the topic because I am not sure where I stand. This book has made me realize that I have a long way to go, and that's ok.
I would have rated it 5/5 but I listened to the audiobook. I didn't get along with the narrator. I wish Thorn would have narrates it.
I think it is ideal for the solo practitioner ready to take their practice into a group setting. This is the first time I've read something from this perspective. I found it very refreshing. I've been consuming many books on the topic because I am not sure where I stand. This book has made me realize that I have a long way to go, and that's ok.
I would have rated it 5/5 but I listened to the audiobook. I didn't get along with the narrator. I wish Thorn would have narrates it.
June 12, 2019
This is a well written book explaining the traditional Wiccan ways. This book was written with the beginner in mind. it is not using long drawn out scientific type words it is written in simple to understand language that will make plenty of sense to the reader. The book does focus a lot on Covens. So if you are interested in a Coven or how to join one, this book will give you a lot of useful information.
I received this book from the Author or Publisher via Netgalley.com and chose to leave this review.
I received this book from the Author or Publisher via Netgalley.com and chose to leave this review.
April 22, 2020
Currently a prospective seeker for a Gardnerian coven and this was recommended to me by the high priestess. This was very helpful with understanding why traditional wicca is so important, how seeking and the process moving towards initiation goes, the structure of the Gardnerian tradition (which can translate to other traditions such as Alexandrian, etc.), and it really gives you a feel for what you as a seeker should be asking, what you will be asked, and what to expect. I loved it and it definitely helped me shape what I wanted to ask the high priestess I'm talking to, this helped me a lot.
December 7, 2020
I'll formally review this eventually, but I must say it is exactly as promised, an excellent guide for seekers interested in Traditional Wicca including its definition. I wish it could be read by everyone who has e-mailed us asking us for training.
It concludes especially strong with recommendations based on the cornerstones of the Witch's Pyramid
Unfortunately, because this book doesn't contain rituals or spells, I'm not sure it will catch the eye of the people who need it. I'm happy to have a copy that I can loan out.
It concludes especially strong with recommendations based on the cornerstones of the Witch's Pyramid
Unfortunately, because this book doesn't contain rituals or spells, I'm not sure it will catch the eye of the people who need it. I'm happy to have a copy that I can loan out.
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March 29, 2022Jag tycker väldigt mycket om den här boken. Den förklarar coven-konceptet på ett sätt som gör att en utomstående får en bättre inblick i vad det innebär. Jag har stött på ganska lite läsning gällande hur ett coven egentligen fungerar och kan rekommendera denna till alla som är sugna på att hitta en grupp. Det tas även upp lite historia kring såväl wicca, som olika begrepp inom området och innefattar en enligt mig väldigt intressant diskussion kring etik och wiccan rede, även om det hade kunnat vara ännu mer välutvecklat.
September 29, 2019
I really enjoyed Thorn's book. I thought it was well organized and flowed from one page to the next without being disjointed and scattered. Thorn is a Wiccan High Priestess in the Gardnerian Tradition and I enjoyed gaining a peak inside what that means exactly. I really enjoyed the list of questions she provides to ask oneself before they endeavor to join a Traditional coven. Also, I enjoyed the bibliography at the end. All in all, it was a great read, quick too, and I enjoyed it very much.
November 26, 2019
I’ve admired Thorn for years partly because she is the Daria of Wicca (the perky voice of the audiobook’s reader took some getting used to), partly because she both knows her stuff & teaches it well, and partly because we hit the same Wiccan cultural points such as The Witches Voice and the Sweep series at the same age. I kept thinking “this is the book I needed when I first got into Wicca” but it still applies just as well today, 20 years later!
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