What do you think?
Rate this book
Enchantments: A Modern Witch's Guide to Self-Possession
A wise, witty, and welcoming guide to modern witchcraft and magic and how you can use it to positively affect your life--from an experienced practitioner and employee at New York City's oldest occult shop.
"Our brains seek patterns, our hearts seek miracles. And witchcraft is nothing if not a pursuit of everyday miracles."
Mya Spalter has spent fifteen years among candles, herbs, cats, and spell books as an employee at New York City's oldest occult shop, Enchantments, and she's crammed all that experience teaching others the building blocks of magic into this book. In a fresh and inclusive voice, Spalter offers practical information for building your own eclectic, self-guided witchcraft practice, illustrated with beautiful black and white drawings by artist Caroline Paquita: how to set up a home altar, how to cast a love spell on yourself (which is really the best way), the many uses for candles, the differences between need and greed in money magic, and all the magical ingredients you can get at the dollar store. She covers healing herbs you might try out in your bathtub, tells stories of divination gone wrong--and right!, describes witchy holidays to celebrate with friends or covens, explains the best way to ask an Aries for a favor, and much, much more. On every page, Mya offers smart, hilarious, and, most importantly, concrete ways to incorporate intentional magic in your own life.
"Our brains seek patterns, our hearts seek miracles. And witchcraft is nothing if not a pursuit of everyday miracles."
Mya Spalter has spent fifteen years among candles, herbs, cats, and spell books as an employee at New York City's oldest occult shop, Enchantments, and she's crammed all that experience teaching others the building blocks of magic into this book. In a fresh and inclusive voice, Spalter offers practical information for building your own eclectic, self-guided witchcraft practice, illustrated with beautiful black and white drawings by artist Caroline Paquita: how to set up a home altar, how to cast a love spell on yourself (which is really the best way), the many uses for candles, the differences between need and greed in money magic, and all the magical ingredients you can get at the dollar store. She covers healing herbs you might try out in your bathtub, tells stories of divination gone wrong--and right!, describes witchy holidays to celebrate with friends or covens, explains the best way to ask an Aries for a favor, and much, much more. On every page, Mya offers smart, hilarious, and, most importantly, concrete ways to incorporate intentional magic in your own life.
204 pages, Hardcover
First published October 9, 2018
90 people are currently reading
1915 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
November 26, 2020
this is a short, funny, down to earth overview of witchcraft including setting intentions/spell work, the sabbats, astrology, divination, etc. the author was a true real and modern witch and gave me insight into how to (pardon my repetition) modernize the craft. she really inspired me to incorporate certain elements into spell work that makes it more practical and special. highly recommend!!
July 9, 2018
I'm not wiccan or currently practicing witchcraft, but that didn't stop me from enjoying the hell out of this book! The author is irreverent, funny, blunt, and honest - in short, everything I love in a non-fiction author. Divided into two sections, Enchantments covers witchy implements (alters, herbs, colors, stars, calendars, etc) and magical intentions (astrology, money drawing, attraction, etc.). Threaded in amongst all this fun knowledge are wonderful drawings and keen insight on modern witchcraft and whimsy. Even if that's not your bag, there's a lot of fun stuff about astrology, herbs, and cleaning that can be implemented in your life; this guide is as useful as you want it to be. A fun read that will reach a wide audience.
July 3, 2018
I had the pleasure of reviewing this book through NetGalley. My longer review is at my blog. http://www.amberunmasked.com/review-e...
Mya Spalter created an entertaining and budget-friendly look on modern witchcraft. She also laid things bare about working at Enchantments, the oldest witch shop in New York City. She talked about some creepy customers; and was totally honest about why the staff might come off as cold or moody on certain days. Her advice is none other than practical.
This doesn’t mean that only newbies to the craft should read Enchantments. I thoroughly loved every page of this book and I’ve been a practicing witch (basically since I was a kid, but hid it) openly since for over 20 years. I’ve studied with the best like staff at Mystickal Tymes in New Hope, PA and Laurie Cabot from Salem, MA.
What I loved about Spalter was that the reading experience felt like a conversation where we were friends hanging out. By the end, I truly wished we were. She's a dynamo. I have so many passages of Enchantments highlighted.
Spalter presents inexpensive options for finding tools and supplies. Hit up yard sales, dollar stores, and simply work with what is already in your possession.
The illustrations by Caroline Paquita add the flavor of folk art and creation/creative energy bringing the chapters to life. To summarize, if you have any interest at all in how witches today practice, read this book.
Mya Spalter created an entertaining and budget-friendly look on modern witchcraft. She also laid things bare about working at Enchantments, the oldest witch shop in New York City. She talked about some creepy customers; and was totally honest about why the staff might come off as cold or moody on certain days. Her advice is none other than practical.
This doesn’t mean that only newbies to the craft should read Enchantments. I thoroughly loved every page of this book and I’ve been a practicing witch (basically since I was a kid, but hid it) openly since for over 20 years. I’ve studied with the best like staff at Mystickal Tymes in New Hope, PA and Laurie Cabot from Salem, MA.
What I loved about Spalter was that the reading experience felt like a conversation where we were friends hanging out. By the end, I truly wished we were. She's a dynamo. I have so many passages of Enchantments highlighted.
Spalter presents inexpensive options for finding tools and supplies. Hit up yard sales, dollar stores, and simply work with what is already in your possession.
The illustrations by Caroline Paquita add the flavor of folk art and creation/creative energy bringing the chapters to life. To summarize, if you have any interest at all in how witches today practice, read this book.
June 6, 2018
This book was well ...Enchanting. A breath of fresh air explaining rituals, spells and magic in clear precise terms that if you can read, you can do. I loved the way she talks about setting up an alter. Using what she finds or has as opposed to taking a huge list and getting everything exactly as some books recommend or you can't be a real witch ( I do the same thing). She covers Wicca and Neo-pagan beliefs and what she goes over can be used no matter who and what you worship. The moon signs, colors and just anything else you are interested in are in this book. It is long overdue . Thank you Mya Spalter for a book well done. I received this book from Net Galley and Random Publishing House for an honest review and no compensation. The views and opinions are my own. 5+ stars.
October 15, 2019
Enchantments by Mya Spalter is another book that I discovered simply from following other witches on social media, rather than one that came up in my own research. And it's bloody brilliant! It seems to me that I'm finding the books I really need through recommendations are simply putting out into the world. Just like with Light Magic for Dark Times by Lisa Marie Basile, Enchantments has been a bit of a game changer for me.
While it's another guide to witchcraft, and covers pretty much everything I've read in other books, what makes this book stand out is Spalter herself. Enchantments is written very much like a conversation Spalter is having with you. She's not just telling us about the various elements of witchcraft, but relating it to her own practice, offering examples from her own life to explain certain things further. Enchantments is just such an accessible book because of Spalter's down to earth, friendly, and approachable vibe. She cracks jokes, and is also very encouraging in regards to readers and their own practice. I'd actually say this is a pretty awesome book for those interested in practicing witchcraft to start off with, specifically because of how Spalter has written it.
But Enchantments specifically made a difference for me because of Spalter sharing her own practice. She has quite a versatile approach to witchcraft. She gives an example of a money spell, and how she would do it. One of the herbs required is orris, which is quite difficult to get hold of, but orris is a root of a particular iris, so she cuts an iris from her garden, puts it on her alter, and considers it represented, even if it's not within the money powder she's creating. When she discusses altar set up, and representations of the various elements, she goes through the chalice, the wand, the athame, the pentagram, but then she goes into how she does things.
These are just two example's of the many Spalter gives from her own practice, but these are the two that stick out for me. While all books talk about finding your own path, and how it's your intent that really matters, rather than what you use, and to use your intuition, they all tend to follow a specific way of doing things - which led me to think there is a specific way of doing things. But Spalter's way of practicing magic has opened my eyes to the fact that it really is your intention that matters, and that and your intuition should guide the how and the why. I keep mentioning my fragrance sensitivity, and how I can't use incense, essential oils, or most herbs, but with Enchantments, Spalter pretty much says, "That's ok, use something else." I didn't realise I was feeling a little overwhelmed about the "right" way of doing things until Spalter showed me there is no right way, and I started to breathe a little easier. Enchantments has just made me feel much more confident in adapting and altering as I need, and going with my gut, my intuition, and making my magic work for me.
With this in mind, I really couldn't recommend Enchantments enough - especially if you're really new to witchcraft. It's a fantastic introduction, and, I believe, will make readers feel at ease.
While it's another guide to witchcraft, and covers pretty much everything I've read in other books, what makes this book stand out is Spalter herself. Enchantments is written very much like a conversation Spalter is having with you. She's not just telling us about the various elements of witchcraft, but relating it to her own practice, offering examples from her own life to explain certain things further. Enchantments is just such an accessible book because of Spalter's down to earth, friendly, and approachable vibe. She cracks jokes, and is also very encouraging in regards to readers and their own practice. I'd actually say this is a pretty awesome book for those interested in practicing witchcraft to start off with, specifically because of how Spalter has written it.
But Enchantments specifically made a difference for me because of Spalter sharing her own practice. She has quite a versatile approach to witchcraft. She gives an example of a money spell, and how she would do it. One of the herbs required is orris, which is quite difficult to get hold of, but orris is a root of a particular iris, so she cuts an iris from her garden, puts it on her alter, and considers it represented, even if it's not within the money powder she's creating. When she discusses altar set up, and representations of the various elements, she goes through the chalice, the wand, the athame, the pentagram, but then she goes into how she does things.
'I love to discover the purpose and reasoning behind the ritual choices that other people make, but what excites me about magic and witchcraft is figuring out the nature of my own ritual choices. My way represents water with... water. In some kind of vessel, of course, but I don't keep one in particular for the purpose, even thought I just told you that your ritual items should be set aside for spiritual work only. I do what I want! I tend to choose the vessel to suit the day, the mood, the purpose I have in mind at the moment that I'm setting up. I have two of my great-grandmother's champagne glasses, and they can become chalices whenever I desire. If I'm working on some kind of new apartment spell for a friend, I have been known to use a mug that looks like the classic New York "We Are Happy to Serve You" coffee cup because it reminds me of the three of cups in tarot a card that often represents sharing in joyful abundance with friends. But I only mix it up like that because I love hunting around for the perfect little thing. You might not! In which case, it is totally fine to just rock the same altar items no matter what you're doing.' (p8-9)
These are just two example's of the many Spalter gives from her own practice, but these are the two that stick out for me. While all books talk about finding your own path, and how it's your intent that really matters, rather than what you use, and to use your intuition, they all tend to follow a specific way of doing things - which led me to think there is a specific way of doing things. But Spalter's way of practicing magic has opened my eyes to the fact that it really is your intention that matters, and that and your intuition should guide the how and the why. I keep mentioning my fragrance sensitivity, and how I can't use incense, essential oils, or most herbs, but with Enchantments, Spalter pretty much says, "That's ok, use something else." I didn't realise I was feeling a little overwhelmed about the "right" way of doing things until Spalter showed me there is no right way, and I started to breathe a little easier. Enchantments has just made me feel much more confident in adapting and altering as I need, and going with my gut, my intuition, and making my magic work for me.
With this in mind, I really couldn't recommend Enchantments enough - especially if you're really new to witchcraft. It's a fantastic introduction, and, I believe, will make readers feel at ease.
January 26, 2020
Inhalt: Die Autorin arbeitet im 'Entchantments', dem ältesten magischen Laden in New York. Sie gibt hier eine gute Einführung in das Hexenwissen, einer modernen praktischen Hexe.
Art des Buches: Sachbuch Esoterik
Wie fand ich das Buch? Ich musste mich zuerst an den legeren Ton der Autorin gewöhnen. Das Buch wird durch Illustrationen aufgelockert. Wer sich noch nie mit Zauberei oder Hexenwissen beschäftigt hat, findet hier gute erste Einblicke. So erklärt sie z. B., wie man einen Altar zusammenstellt, welche Kerze zu welchem Zauber passt oder gibt Einblicke in Wahrsagetechniken. Ein großes Plus ist, dass sie die 'Junghexen' dazu auffordert, sich im Küchenschrank oder der Natur umzusehen, bevor man am Beschaffen von Alraune & Co. verzweifelt. Es gibt hier keine eindeutig richtigen oder falschen Zutaten, hier sind Gespür und Fantasie der Hexe gefragt, was ich als sehr sympathisch empfand.
3 passende Wörter zum Buch? Hexe - Rituale - Magie
Wem empfehlen? Das Buch wendet sich ganz klar an Menschen, die sich noch nicht mit dieser Thematik beschäftigt haben und sich einen Überblick verschaffen wollen. Anhand der Anleitungen ist es möglich erste Versuche im Bereich der Magie zu starten.
Art des Buches: Sachbuch Esoterik
Wie fand ich das Buch? Ich musste mich zuerst an den legeren Ton der Autorin gewöhnen. Das Buch wird durch Illustrationen aufgelockert. Wer sich noch nie mit Zauberei oder Hexenwissen beschäftigt hat, findet hier gute erste Einblicke. So erklärt sie z. B., wie man einen Altar zusammenstellt, welche Kerze zu welchem Zauber passt oder gibt Einblicke in Wahrsagetechniken. Ein großes Plus ist, dass sie die 'Junghexen' dazu auffordert, sich im Küchenschrank oder der Natur umzusehen, bevor man am Beschaffen von Alraune & Co. verzweifelt. Es gibt hier keine eindeutig richtigen oder falschen Zutaten, hier sind Gespür und Fantasie der Hexe gefragt, was ich als sehr sympathisch empfand.
3 passende Wörter zum Buch? Hexe - Rituale - Magie
Wem empfehlen? Das Buch wendet sich ganz klar an Menschen, die sich noch nicht mit dieser Thematik beschäftigt haben und sich einen Überblick verschaffen wollen. Anhand der Anleitungen ist es möglich erste Versuche im Bereich der Magie zu starten.
October 19, 2018
This book sounded quite charming so I had to check it out. Sadly, I struggled to finish it. I feel like the book tries too hard to be cool.. It doesn’t feel like it’s flowing naturally, but instead feels like it wants to be different. Which is fine if it does feel natural, but when it feels like you’re TRYING, eh not so fun. That said, I didn’t totally hate it. Like I said there’s useful tips for those just starting out and curious about things like how to set up an altar (and it does specify this isn’t just a Pagan/Wiccan thing but anyone who needs their own peaceful space).
I can’t see myself ever reading this again, but I might look at certain chapters just for inspiration.
I can’t see myself ever reading this again, but I might look at certain chapters just for inspiration.
April 11, 2019
This book was recommended to me by a friend and I loved it.
Spalter does a great job with her introduction to witchcraft. She covers a lot of material very well and in a few pages. If you're out of practice and looking to refresh or you've gotten a basic handle on a lot of stuff and want a little step up, this is a great book. I have been studying for 22 years now and after a couple of years away this felt like a great refresher. It reminded me of some things that I had forgotten about, got me excited about some new things, and made me laugh.
Spalter covers a wide variety of topics in her text. Candles, sigils, oils, astrology, tarot, crystals. She touches on a lot of things. This is not a spell book but Spalter does give you the tools to develop your own magic. Many of the chapters conclude with a short list of resources which also are pretty good.
Also, I just really liked her tone. She's very conversational, tells bad jokes and admits it, makes pop culture references, and basically manages to sound like someone you'd like to actually talk to. She even includes some stories about working at Enchantments, the shop, that are pretty great for anyone who has worked in retail.
Excellent read. Totally worth it.
Spalter does a great job with her introduction to witchcraft. She covers a lot of material very well and in a few pages. If you're out of practice and looking to refresh or you've gotten a basic handle on a lot of stuff and want a little step up, this is a great book. I have been studying for 22 years now and after a couple of years away this felt like a great refresher. It reminded me of some things that I had forgotten about, got me excited about some new things, and made me laugh.
Spalter covers a wide variety of topics in her text. Candles, sigils, oils, astrology, tarot, crystals. She touches on a lot of things. This is not a spell book but Spalter does give you the tools to develop your own magic. Many of the chapters conclude with a short list of resources which also are pretty good.
Also, I just really liked her tone. She's very conversational, tells bad jokes and admits it, makes pop culture references, and basically manages to sound like someone you'd like to actually talk to. She even includes some stories about working at Enchantments, the shop, that are pretty great for anyone who has worked in retail.
Excellent read. Totally worth it.
January 3, 2023
Recherche-Buch für mein Hexen-Projekt. Sehr unterhaltsam geschrieben, hab viel lernen können. :)
January 9, 2019
Fuck yeah I’m a real witch now
July 24, 2018
A beginner’s guide to everything you need to start noticing and using magic that is all around you, from crystals and colors to intention candles and tarot. Mya Spalter’s voice is honest, never holier-than-thou, and approachable. Though she reminds the reader constantly that she doesn’t know everything, I did learn quite a bit from her in this book. The best part about this book is that Spalter doesn’t lay down rules and regulations; instead she offers ideas, options, and advice. She reminds the reader to trust the magic in themselves, to honor the forms it takes and the directions in which it guides them.
January 19, 2019
This was great! And Michelle Tea and Kimya Dawson recommend it!
September 3, 2018
Netgalley provided me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Enchantments is a really refreshing take on witchcraft. Mya Spalter uses approachable, modern language and symbolism to explain things. It makes it so much easier to absorb the information and relate it to my own life, rather than trying to parse meaning from the many Neopagan/witchy books that rely on old-fashioned language and iconography in an attempt to sound more "spiritual" or "occulty," but just end up coming across as outdated and inaccessible. I also appreciate that she shies away from outdated ways of viewing the world (read: gender binaries, sexist & ableist forms, etc.), while still acknowledging that other books may still rely on those ways of thinking. Overall I found that Spalter's writing style made the book extremely readable and easy to absorb, and it made me much more interested in trying out some of the magickal techniques.
The approach to spellcraft is refreshing. She gives you ideas for how things might be done, how to choose substitute ingredients, etc., all in a very low key manner. She never says "you must do it this way or it won't work." I was also pleasantly surprised that this book taught me about new techniques for spells, like uncrossing work - this is basically one way of removing blockages from your path - as well as new ways of looking at/using techniques I'm already familiar with.
In one chapter, she explores how different items on your altar can have meaning, and how to find that meaning for yourself. I really appreciate that she keeps reminding you "Don't burn the house down!" when talking about burning candles and such.
I really liked her chapter on candle magick, and all the tricks you can use to get your magkical juju flowing when using candles, like using sigils and incense smoke, and different ways you can dress candles to fit your purposes (including with glitter! Be still my witchy heart). I actually ended up using some of these techniques to dress and burn a candle for a spell and it worked really well. Her suggestions for charging the candle by playing music that fits your intention also really jived with me.
I found the chapter on divination very interesting and it renewed my interest in trying out palmistry, and was a good reminder that tarot is a skill that needs practice because there are so many dang cards. But the chapter on astrology reminded me why I just don't believe in astrology and never will.
Overall, this is a must read for modern witches!
Enchantments is a really refreshing take on witchcraft. Mya Spalter uses approachable, modern language and symbolism to explain things. It makes it so much easier to absorb the information and relate it to my own life, rather than trying to parse meaning from the many Neopagan/witchy books that rely on old-fashioned language and iconography in an attempt to sound more "spiritual" or "occulty," but just end up coming across as outdated and inaccessible. I also appreciate that she shies away from outdated ways of viewing the world (read: gender binaries, sexist & ableist forms, etc.), while still acknowledging that other books may still rely on those ways of thinking. Overall I found that Spalter's writing style made the book extremely readable and easy to absorb, and it made me much more interested in trying out some of the magickal techniques.
The approach to spellcraft is refreshing. She gives you ideas for how things might be done, how to choose substitute ingredients, etc., all in a very low key manner. She never says "you must do it this way or it won't work." I was also pleasantly surprised that this book taught me about new techniques for spells, like uncrossing work - this is basically one way of removing blockages from your path - as well as new ways of looking at/using techniques I'm already familiar with.
In one chapter, she explores how different items on your altar can have meaning, and how to find that meaning for yourself. I really appreciate that she keeps reminding you "Don't burn the house down!" when talking about burning candles and such.
I really liked her chapter on candle magick, and all the tricks you can use to get your magkical juju flowing when using candles, like using sigils and incense smoke, and different ways you can dress candles to fit your purposes (including with glitter! Be still my witchy heart). I actually ended up using some of these techniques to dress and burn a candle for a spell and it worked really well. Her suggestions for charging the candle by playing music that fits your intention also really jived with me.
I found the chapter on divination very interesting and it renewed my interest in trying out palmistry, and was a good reminder that tarot is a skill that needs practice because there are so many dang cards. But the chapter on astrology reminded me why I just don't believe in astrology and never will.
Overall, this is a must read for modern witches!
August 19, 2018
As a thank you to Netgalley for supplying me with the advanced readers copy of “ Enchantments: A Modern Witch’s Guide to Self-Possession” I am providing my thoughts and an honest review of this text. Coming into this text I figured it would be but another new age book giving information on palmistry, astrology, and more. I was wrong. Sure it offered all those things but did them what I feel was a personal way. Mya Spalters experience shows throughout its pages and is one that feels more of a conversation than a text you are reading. Her language was easy going and added to the atmosphere of the text which for me was relaxing and at times magical. The beauty in this book is that Spalters uses everyday items you may find around your home or are possibly accessible to you. The language featured is easy to follow and understand while she uses profanity I feel it adds to the chatacter Mya Spalter must be. As I mentioned it offered information on interests common within Witchcraft and gave the reader information where they may build depending on their level of interest. This appeared in offering additional reading material related to that subject. The black and white drawings by artist Caroline Paquita were whimsical and added a modern twist on sacred imagery. Overall I gave this book five out of five stars and recommend it to those whose interests are in witchcraft, occult issues and more. I shall recommend it to those I know would appreciate it and shall buy a copy when it is released.
December 12, 2018
A cheeky, informative overview of all things witchy: intention-setting, sigils and colors, energy, candle magic, herbs and oils and scents, divination, astrology, the seasons and celebrations throughout the year, etc. Spalter has a sassy, funny style of writing, which can sometimes be grating but mostly is entertaining and makes this book fun to read. If you're curious about Wicca, witches, or all of the stuff in your local occult shop, this book is a great introductory guide.
*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.
August 22, 2024
The author Mya did an awesome job describing an otherwise heavy and complicated topic like witchcraft. She made the read very fun, lighthearted and relatable. I think it is a great book for people who are interested in these concepts but not familiar with the details and meanings you find when studying witchcraft.
April 19, 2022
A little bit boring at parts but really well organized and informative!
March 16, 2019
Written in an engaging and irreverent style. As a wannabe witch I’ll be returning to this and dipping into it for ideas.
July 24, 2023
Very basic summary of some witchy ways told in a humorous manner but with too much plugging of the shop she works at.
December 10, 2021
4.5 stars. Enchanting!
June 13, 2023
" Enchantments" is an enjoyable and snarky book that provides a great introduction to witchcraft. As someone with prior experience, I still found it informative and fun. The author's approach to magic and altar building resonated with me. However, after reading some reviews about the shop mentioned in the book, I had second thoughts. Nevertheless, I would recommend this book to beginners or anyone looking to incorporate magic into their life.
August 28, 2018
Mya Spalter's "Enchantments" is a wonderful primer for anyone interested in the mystical. Within this book she covers all the bases of modern witchcraft from basic spell casting, to tarot, to astrology and everything in between. The use of quirky illustrations sprinkled throughout helps show details and give a visual, such as how to create a sigil or enchant a candle. I love her relaxed approach of making do with what one has, at the end of the day it is our intent that matters the most and everything else is used to magnify our intent. "Enchantments" is an excellent guide to get you started on your mystical journey and direct you on to the spiritual path that most interests you. 5 Stars, highly recommended.
December 29, 2022
A fabulous book that will serve me for many years. I read it cover-to-cover and likely will again, and use it as frequent reference in my witch-y journey. My copy is vandalized with dozens of sticky notes in places I thought were helpful, beautiful, or worth returning to.
The number one reason I recommend this book is the author’s attitude. Entering the world of paganism and Wicca with little knowledge is daunting. There is such a deep history I feel like I need to catch up on, symbolism in every action I could be taking and proper methods to do everything. This book calls that thinking out as bullshit, usually with similar terminology (bullshit.) The author stresses that your personal interactions with the energy in your world are just that- personal- and while tradition can serve as a guide when you’re lost, your intuition is more important. It’s the intention that gives power to magic and you don’t need to be stressed about it. This is my largest takeaway, that it’s okay to start my own way, and it’s kept me interested in this world when other sources overwhelm me.
Anyway, get a copy of the book, because you won’t want to return it if you try the library route.
The number one reason I recommend this book is the author’s attitude. Entering the world of paganism and Wicca with little knowledge is daunting. There is such a deep history I feel like I need to catch up on, symbolism in every action I could be taking and proper methods to do everything. This book calls that thinking out as bullshit, usually with similar terminology (bullshit.) The author stresses that your personal interactions with the energy in your world are just that- personal- and while tradition can serve as a guide when you’re lost, your intuition is more important. It’s the intention that gives power to magic and you don’t need to be stressed about it. This is my largest takeaway, that it’s okay to start my own way, and it’s kept me interested in this world when other sources overwhelm me.
Anyway, get a copy of the book, because you won’t want to return it if you try the library route.
August 14, 2018
This was really good , like a starter kit for a modern day witch
May 20, 2020
+ Gestaltung
Beginnen wir mal ganz überheblich mit der Gestaltung des Buches! Ja, "Don't judge a book by it's colour", weil ich davon begeistert bin judge ich es jetzt doch. Schon alleine das Cover passt für mich super zum Inhalt des Buches! Die Farbe Lila verbinde ich schon immer mit Hexen, keine Ahnung wieso. Ein besonderes Highlight waren definitiv die Zeichnungen im Buch! Die sahen nicht nur bezaubernd aus, sondern haben das Geschriebene auf einer anderen Ebene verdeutlicht! Hier habe ich also absolut nichts zu meckern.
+ Inhalt
Es geht mit positiver Kritik weiter! "Witchcraft" ist mehr oder weniger ein Sachbuch. Auf jeden Fall keine fiktive Geschichte. Mich konnten die Inhalte überzeugen und ich wurde sehr inspiriert einige Dinge davon in meinen Alltag zu integrieren oder einfach mal auszuprobieren!
+/- Lesefluss
Der Lesefluss... Da bin ich mir unsicher, ob ich diesen positiv oder negativ bewerte. Denn an sich hatte die Autorin einen super lockeren Schreibstil, der einen durch das Buch hüpfen (oder auf einem Besen fliegen) ließ. Aber ich habe sehr lange für das Buch gebraucht. Vielleicht waren da einfach zu viele Informationen auf kleinem Raum, so dass ich empfehle das Buch eventuell in Verbindung mit anderen Büchern zu lesen. Denn ich hatte zwar oft Lust auf's Lesen, aber dann nicht unbedingt auf dieses Buch, obwohl ich gefallen daran hatte. Manchmal war es dann vielleicht doch "zu anstrengend".
- Wiederholungen
Das hat mich leider sehr gestört. Ständig wurde auf vorherige oder zukünftige Kapitel verwiesen, Inhalte wurden wiederholt. Natürlich wird das Ganze so verständlicher, aber ich wurde weitestgehend davon genervt.
- Persönliche Bemerkungen
Hier traue ich mich kaum Kritik anzusprechen, weil ich niemanden persönlich beleidigen möchte. Besonders weil ich die Autorin sehr interessant finde und sie gerne mal in ihrem Hexenladen in New York besuchen würde. Ich hatte einfach nicht erwartet, dass dieses Buch viele private Anekdoten erzählt und Werbung für einen Hexenladen macht. Das hat mich ein wenig enttäuscht.
Fazit: Alles in allem hat das Buch mir sehr gefallen. Ich empfehle es auch jedem, der sich ein bisschen mit Magie und/oder Ritualen für ein glücklicheres Leben auseinandersetzen möchte! Nicht nur Hexenliebhaber werden von Mya Spalters Worten inspiriert, auch Nicht magische Wesen können viel aus ihrem Wissen ziehen und auf die Probleme in ihrem eigenen Leben anwenden. Durch den merkwürdigen Lesefluss und die Wiederholung ziehe ich leider zwei Sterne ab und vergebe "nur" drei von fünf Sterne. Die scheinen aber alle sehr stark!!!
Passender Song zum Buch: "Witches" von Daughter
Beginnen wir mal ganz überheblich mit der Gestaltung des Buches! Ja, "Don't judge a book by it's colour", weil ich davon begeistert bin judge ich es jetzt doch. Schon alleine das Cover passt für mich super zum Inhalt des Buches! Die Farbe Lila verbinde ich schon immer mit Hexen, keine Ahnung wieso. Ein besonderes Highlight waren definitiv die Zeichnungen im Buch! Die sahen nicht nur bezaubernd aus, sondern haben das Geschriebene auf einer anderen Ebene verdeutlicht! Hier habe ich also absolut nichts zu meckern.
+ Inhalt
Es geht mit positiver Kritik weiter! "Witchcraft" ist mehr oder weniger ein Sachbuch. Auf jeden Fall keine fiktive Geschichte. Mich konnten die Inhalte überzeugen und ich wurde sehr inspiriert einige Dinge davon in meinen Alltag zu integrieren oder einfach mal auszuprobieren!
+/- Lesefluss
Der Lesefluss... Da bin ich mir unsicher, ob ich diesen positiv oder negativ bewerte. Denn an sich hatte die Autorin einen super lockeren Schreibstil, der einen durch das Buch hüpfen (oder auf einem Besen fliegen) ließ. Aber ich habe sehr lange für das Buch gebraucht. Vielleicht waren da einfach zu viele Informationen auf kleinem Raum, so dass ich empfehle das Buch eventuell in Verbindung mit anderen Büchern zu lesen. Denn ich hatte zwar oft Lust auf's Lesen, aber dann nicht unbedingt auf dieses Buch, obwohl ich gefallen daran hatte. Manchmal war es dann vielleicht doch "zu anstrengend".
- Wiederholungen
Das hat mich leider sehr gestört. Ständig wurde auf vorherige oder zukünftige Kapitel verwiesen, Inhalte wurden wiederholt. Natürlich wird das Ganze so verständlicher, aber ich wurde weitestgehend davon genervt.
- Persönliche Bemerkungen
Hier traue ich mich kaum Kritik anzusprechen, weil ich niemanden persönlich beleidigen möchte. Besonders weil ich die Autorin sehr interessant finde und sie gerne mal in ihrem Hexenladen in New York besuchen würde. Ich hatte einfach nicht erwartet, dass dieses Buch viele private Anekdoten erzählt und Werbung für einen Hexenladen macht. Das hat mich ein wenig enttäuscht.
Fazit: Alles in allem hat das Buch mir sehr gefallen. Ich empfehle es auch jedem, der sich ein bisschen mit Magie und/oder Ritualen für ein glücklicheres Leben auseinandersetzen möchte! Nicht nur Hexenliebhaber werden von Mya Spalters Worten inspiriert, auch Nicht magische Wesen können viel aus ihrem Wissen ziehen und auf die Probleme in ihrem eigenen Leben anwenden. Durch den merkwürdigen Lesefluss und die Wiederholung ziehe ich leider zwei Sterne ab und vergebe "nur" drei von fünf Sterne. Die scheinen aber alle sehr stark!!!
Passender Song zum Buch: "Witches" von Daughter
April 2, 2020
I love sure book I thought she was very witty even though it's kind of the stuff I knew before it's always good to hear it again and her voice was very relaxing I read on Audible so I would either get the book and listen to it on audibles or just looking to see what an audible cuz the way she explains things in her book is so funny
July 18, 2018
I never had so much fun learning! This book shows you how to use what you have on hand to do your spells! The writer is witty and funny. I truly enjoyed this more than I thought i was going to. Grab this one, whether you are experienced or a rookie like myself, you will find it entertaining to say the least.
July 15, 2018
I received this book from RandomHouse in exchange for a voluntary review.
A teen walks into a grungy storefront on the Upper East Side and is greeted by a billow of smoke coming from a cauldron. After the smoke clears and about 15 years later, that girl, author Mya Spalter, is still working at Enchantments, New York City's oldest witchcraft store.
Disclosure: I am not pagan or Wiccan and this book did not change anything for me. The closest I have come to witchcraft was playing Ouija at a sleepover when I was 10 years old. I read this book with an open mind, curious about the history, religion, and practices of witchcraft and this book did not disappoint. Talking about the uses of shrines, herbs, spirits, and rituals and how they intertwine to reach self-possession, the book is an extremely informative, written in a charming (no pun intended) conversation voice. It is a helpful guide for people who want to participate in or just curious about the practice or witchcraft.
https://www.instagram.com/thejourneyo... (will publish review on September 4th, a week before publication)
A teen walks into a grungy storefront on the Upper East Side and is greeted by a billow of smoke coming from a cauldron. After the smoke clears and about 15 years later, that girl, author Mya Spalter, is still working at Enchantments, New York City's oldest witchcraft store.
Disclosure: I am not pagan or Wiccan and this book did not change anything for me. The closest I have come to witchcraft was playing Ouija at a sleepover when I was 10 years old. I read this book with an open mind, curious about the history, religion, and practices of witchcraft and this book did not disappoint. Talking about the uses of shrines, herbs, spirits, and rituals and how they intertwine to reach self-possession, the book is an extremely informative, written in a charming (no pun intended) conversation voice. It is a helpful guide for people who want to participate in or just curious about the practice or witchcraft.
https://www.instagram.com/thejourneyo... (will publish review on September 4th, a week before publication)
October 27, 2019
I received this book as an e-ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I thought this book was great! The author has a clear writing style that is both funny and easy to understand often at the same time. She does a great job describing and explaining topics that are often difficult for readers new to this subject to grasp. I am well acquainted with Witchcraft, Wicca, Paganism, Dieties, Divination, etc. But I actually learned a few new things during this read. The way this book is written makes it a great recommendation for those who are new to witchcraft and need a primer. It's also a great recommendation to the curious. The information provided in this book is accurate, concentrated, and pleasantly modernized. This book is essentially the "Teen Witch by Silver Ravenwolf" of the younger generations, only it's much better!
My only dislike is that the section on planetary positions was a bit short for my taste. I would have liked to see just a bit more coverage as that subject can be a bit confusing for newcomers.
All in all, fantastic book for those that are curious about what being a witch really involves!
I thought this book was great! The author has a clear writing style that is both funny and easy to understand often at the same time. She does a great job describing and explaining topics that are often difficult for readers new to this subject to grasp. I am well acquainted with Witchcraft, Wicca, Paganism, Dieties, Divination, etc. But I actually learned a few new things during this read. The way this book is written makes it a great recommendation for those who are new to witchcraft and need a primer. It's also a great recommendation to the curious. The information provided in this book is accurate, concentrated, and pleasantly modernized. This book is essentially the "Teen Witch by Silver Ravenwolf" of the younger generations, only it's much better!
My only dislike is that the section on planetary positions was a bit short for my taste. I would have liked to see just a bit more coverage as that subject can be a bit confusing for newcomers.
All in all, fantastic book for those that are curious about what being a witch really involves!
June 25, 2018
I'm a bit beyond this book as a pagan, but new pagans will enjoy this work and free them up to not worry so much about making mistakes. One really can't you know. This book is full of info that will guide you if you are new. Simple, easy read.
I received a Kindle ARC in exchange for a fair review from Netgalley.
I received a Kindle ARC in exchange for a fair review from Netgalley.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews