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Folk Witchcraft: A Guide to Lore, Land, and the Familiar Spirit for the Solitary Practitioner
this product page represents an older edition of this title. See the new edition available as of March, 2021 at
Complete with practical exercises, descriptions of craft theories and models, hand-drawn illustrations, and the author's working grimoire, Folk Witchcraft provides the student witch with an insightful perspective on the craft that is firmly rooted in the past, but adapted for the present. Experienced witches will deepen and enrich their practices by connecting more fully to traditional magics from hundreds of years in the past. Learn how
-Master ecstatic methods of spirit-flight described in witch-lore
-Celebrate the turning of the seasons with traditional rituals
-Cultivate closer relationships with nature spirits and personal familiars
-Work powerful traditional charms, such as the witches' ladder, the poppet, and blessing/cursing by gesture
-Discern the magical properties of herbs and plants without relying on tables from books
-Augur practical guidance from the spirit world
-Utilize old craft incantations, remedies, and recipes
-Connect with the Old Ones, the ancestors of Folk Witchcraft
-Experience shapeshifting into various animal spirit forms
-Craft herbal unguents, oils, powders, tinctures, and infusions
-Interpret incantations, charms, and sigils received from your own familiar spirits
-Research and hone your own lore and grimoire-sourced magical practices
With over 50 rituals, charms, and exercises, Folk Witchcraft offers a refreshingly simple approach to the craft that is non-dogmatic, flexible, and rewarding as a personal spiritual practice.
From the
Let’s imagine that we aren’t miles apart. We’re sitting by a fire, looking out into the mysterious night. It’s All Hallow’s Eve, so there’s a chill in the wind, and the branches of the trees are bare. The stars are bright. Embers from the fire catch on the wind in bright flurries, drifting up into the yawning dark like fireflies. We are here to talk about witchcraft, about spirits, about the land. We are going to talk about the cycles of nature and what they mean. We’ll talk about our dreams and visions. We’ll nourish our spirits with wisdom from the old lore. Beyond the crackling fire’s glow, the shadows lingering between the trees could almost be our ancestors.
In many ways, we are living in the golden age of witchcraft. New traditions are springing up all around us. Writers, bloggers, and vloggers share their approaches and ideas. Scholars have begun to unpack the old lore through the lens of legitimate spiritual experience. Books on the craft are published every day. These modern grammars usually share the author’s rituals, their charms, their holidays, and provide a step-by-step approach to conducting craft workings. They try to explain what witches do, what they believe, how they conduct their rituals, what rules they should follow. Sometimes they offer a spurious account of witch history and lineage that leaves the reader more puzzled than before. These books provide much of the how, but little of the why. Pre-made models and rituals that are practiced without an understanding of their source are like cut they are beautiful on the kitchen table, but quickly wither away.
This is not that kind of book. Make no mistake; by the end of this book, you will have a treasury of charms, rituals, incantations, and practical methods by which you can conduct your craft. My larger goal, however, is to provide students of the craft with the means by which to connect with the source of witchcraft, those gates of initiation through which any witch worth his salt must pass. Because folk witchcraft is a living tradition, most of us hone and polish our craft over time. We research, experiment, and adapt. We follow the guidance of our familiar spirits. We listen to the land...
Complete with practical exercises, descriptions of craft theories and models, hand-drawn illustrations, and the author's working grimoire, Folk Witchcraft provides the student witch with an insightful perspective on the craft that is firmly rooted in the past, but adapted for the present. Experienced witches will deepen and enrich their practices by connecting more fully to traditional magics from hundreds of years in the past. Learn how
-Master ecstatic methods of spirit-flight described in witch-lore
-Celebrate the turning of the seasons with traditional rituals
-Cultivate closer relationships with nature spirits and personal familiars
-Work powerful traditional charms, such as the witches' ladder, the poppet, and blessing/cursing by gesture
-Discern the magical properties of herbs and plants without relying on tables from books
-Augur practical guidance from the spirit world
-Utilize old craft incantations, remedies, and recipes
-Connect with the Old Ones, the ancestors of Folk Witchcraft
-Experience shapeshifting into various animal spirit forms
-Craft herbal unguents, oils, powders, tinctures, and infusions
-Interpret incantations, charms, and sigils received from your own familiar spirits
-Research and hone your own lore and grimoire-sourced magical practices
With over 50 rituals, charms, and exercises, Folk Witchcraft offers a refreshingly simple approach to the craft that is non-dogmatic, flexible, and rewarding as a personal spiritual practice.
From the
Let’s imagine that we aren’t miles apart. We’re sitting by a fire, looking out into the mysterious night. It’s All Hallow’s Eve, so there’s a chill in the wind, and the branches of the trees are bare. The stars are bright. Embers from the fire catch on the wind in bright flurries, drifting up into the yawning dark like fireflies. We are here to talk about witchcraft, about spirits, about the land. We are going to talk about the cycles of nature and what they mean. We’ll talk about our dreams and visions. We’ll nourish our spirits with wisdom from the old lore. Beyond the crackling fire’s glow, the shadows lingering between the trees could almost be our ancestors.
In many ways, we are living in the golden age of witchcraft. New traditions are springing up all around us. Writers, bloggers, and vloggers share their approaches and ideas. Scholars have begun to unpack the old lore through the lens of legitimate spiritual experience. Books on the craft are published every day. These modern grammars usually share the author’s rituals, their charms, their holidays, and provide a step-by-step approach to conducting craft workings. They try to explain what witches do, what they believe, how they conduct their rituals, what rules they should follow. Sometimes they offer a spurious account of witch history and lineage that leaves the reader more puzzled than before. These books provide much of the how, but little of the why. Pre-made models and rituals that are practiced without an understanding of their source are like cut they are beautiful on the kitchen table, but quickly wither away.
This is not that kind of book. Make no mistake; by the end of this book, you will have a treasury of charms, rituals, incantations, and practical methods by which you can conduct your craft. My larger goal, however, is to provide students of the craft with the means by which to connect with the source of witchcraft, those gates of initiation through which any witch worth his salt must pass. Because folk witchcraft is a living tradition, most of us hone and polish our craft over time. We research, experiment, and adapt. We follow the guidance of our familiar spirits. We listen to the land...
204 pages, Paperback
First published February 8, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
July 14, 2019
Here comes a book that I found to be perfect for the novice witch and even beneficial for the intermediate witch. The book is not heavy on ritual and tools it does employ them. In many ways we are living in a golden age of witch craft . Thousands of books are coming out and scholars are investigating the old texts to determine the truths. New traditions are springing up all the time. Only problem is that they tell you how to do the magic but not the why. This could lead to an empty ritual. All traditions are valid. Witch craft does not stay the same but rather changes with the times. Usually techniques and traditions are culled from reading the classics.
There are three paths to initiate into the craft. First is through the lore, that means essentially studying the texts. The next is through the land and the spirits who dwell there. The last path is through spirit. Going into the realm of life one of the first few chapters has an in depth list of books along with a brief informative summary. Among the books covered are ; Reginald Scot’s The Discoverie of Witchcraft, Alexander Carmichael’s Carmina Gadelica, 1900, Folger Shakespeare Library MS. V.b.26, Lelands Aradia, Nicolas Culpeper’s Complete Herbal, 1653, History of the Devil and a slew of other books.
Witches work with spirits. This means that sometimes they work with the fae, old ones and the spirit . The old ones are usually the pagan gods of old like Cernunnos, Hekate, Nicniven and others. The author emphasises finding our own meanings and not to rely so heavily on books. The author advocates study the landscape of our immediate area and familiarize yourself with what it is and who the spirits are that dwell there. He also advised studying the lore of the land.
The magic performed by witches is frequently either sympathetic or contagious. Sympathetic magic works by using a stand-in for the person who is the target of the magical act. Contagious magick involves taking something that belonged to the person like some hair or something they touched and incorporating that into your magic. Folk Witchcraft does not hold much by karma or the threefold law. If justice must be done it is up to the people to carry it out. There is no karma. Malificium is magic that is meant to incure harm while beneficium is magic that is used to help or heal. Moon phases also determine what kind of magic we will do. Curses, hexes (maleficium), and the removal of things is frequently associated with the waning moon. The full moon is associated with powerful magic and is an opportune time for ritual. The waxing moon is a time for positive workings for luck, prosperity, healing, and gain (beneficium). Days and times also have an impact on the magic we will perform. Sunday is ruled by the sun and is associated with healing, happiness, and good fortune. Monday is ruled by the moon and is associated with the second sight and divination. Tuesday is ruled by Mars and is associated with defense and victory over enemies. Wednesday is ruled by Mercury and is associated with trade, communication, and travel. Thursday is ruled by Jupiter and is associated with prosperity, luck, and favor. Friday is ruled by Venus and is associated with love, friendship, and beauty. Finally, Saturday is ruled by Saturn, associated with curses, the dead, and baneful workings.
The book covers alot of ground and it gives over simple instructions on how to Do it. The author has included a small mini grimoire in the back. There are rituals, spell and healing. Enjoy.
There are three paths to initiate into the craft. First is through the lore, that means essentially studying the texts. The next is through the land and the spirits who dwell there. The last path is through spirit. Going into the realm of life one of the first few chapters has an in depth list of books along with a brief informative summary. Among the books covered are ; Reginald Scot’s The Discoverie of Witchcraft, Alexander Carmichael’s Carmina Gadelica, 1900, Folger Shakespeare Library MS. V.b.26, Lelands Aradia, Nicolas Culpeper’s Complete Herbal, 1653, History of the Devil and a slew of other books.
Witches work with spirits. This means that sometimes they work with the fae, old ones and the spirit . The old ones are usually the pagan gods of old like Cernunnos, Hekate, Nicniven and others. The author emphasises finding our own meanings and not to rely so heavily on books. The author advocates study the landscape of our immediate area and familiarize yourself with what it is and who the spirits are that dwell there. He also advised studying the lore of the land.
The magic performed by witches is frequently either sympathetic or contagious. Sympathetic magic works by using a stand-in for the person who is the target of the magical act. Contagious magick involves taking something that belonged to the person like some hair or something they touched and incorporating that into your magic. Folk Witchcraft does not hold much by karma or the threefold law. If justice must be done it is up to the people to carry it out. There is no karma. Malificium is magic that is meant to incure harm while beneficium is magic that is used to help or heal. Moon phases also determine what kind of magic we will do. Curses, hexes (maleficium), and the removal of things is frequently associated with the waning moon. The full moon is associated with powerful magic and is an opportune time for ritual. The waxing moon is a time for positive workings for luck, prosperity, healing, and gain (beneficium). Days and times also have an impact on the magic we will perform. Sunday is ruled by the sun and is associated with healing, happiness, and good fortune. Monday is ruled by the moon and is associated with the second sight and divination. Tuesday is ruled by Mars and is associated with defense and victory over enemies. Wednesday is ruled by Mercury and is associated with trade, communication, and travel. Thursday is ruled by Jupiter and is associated with prosperity, luck, and favor. Friday is ruled by Venus and is associated with love, friendship, and beauty. Finally, Saturday is ruled by Saturn, associated with curses, the dead, and baneful workings.
The book covers alot of ground and it gives over simple instructions on how to Do it. The author has included a small mini grimoire in the back. There are rituals, spell and healing. Enjoy.
November 7, 2021
This book is original in that it does stick to the kind of witchcraft one finds in old grimoires, unadorned for the type of modern witch who's an avid consumer of Llewellyn's numerous products. This is not to make fun of the consumerist witch, — if you knew how much I've spent on candles alone this year... But I find that sometimes when talking about witchcraft people settle into an upbeat tone of easy spells and Insta pictures, which I sometimes find quite unmagickal (again, this is not to say I've never done anything like that, not at all). So, this book gives you Paternoster and Devil and dog Latin in a refreshingly unselfconscious way.
The book encourages us to dig up the oldies like Compendium Maleficarum ourselves, which is, in theory, the way to do it, only I read Agrippa's first tome this summer and my opinion is, one has to read through a lot of nonsense to find something useful, — so I think it's all right to sometimes just get the useful stuff in somebody's retelling, like in this case.
I liked the general approach. I found some things (like Paternoster) to be completely inapplicable to my practice, but used some other things, more or less modified, with good results, — so, a good addition to my witchy library.
The book encourages us to dig up the oldies like Compendium Maleficarum ourselves, which is, in theory, the way to do it, only I read Agrippa's first tome this summer and my opinion is, one has to read through a lot of nonsense to find something useful, — so I think it's all right to sometimes just get the useful stuff in somebody's retelling, like in this case.
I liked the general approach. I found some things (like Paternoster) to be completely inapplicable to my practice, but used some other things, more or less modified, with good results, — so, a good addition to my witchy library.
March 27, 2021
Very informative. I think that beginners would get a little bit more out of this book than some of the other books on traditional witchcraft. This book is well written and straight to the point in all chapters and matters. The beginning portion of this book is all about the craft and the how-to's and why fors. The back portion of this book is a grammar which goes over different rites and rituals that can be altered and/or performed by the practitioner. Great little book.
February 9, 2022
To be honest, I wouldn't recommend this book to a beginner. In fact I'm a little confused why the word "guide" was included in the title because the book didn't really guide the reader much at all. And for that reason the book is, actually, a fast read. You could probably knock it out in one afternoon if you had the time to sit with it.
There are some generalized spells in the book, but as mentioned, nothing really guides the reader. The author does note that this was intentionally omited, but that word on the title... I had the impression the book would GUIDE me more.
The information about spirits seems pretty accurate. The parts about some deities wasn't always, but usually was. These parts were enjoyable, so the book is still good if you're into that sort of thing. If you're looking for a guide on folk witchcraft, then you might want to look at something else, because this book really won't get you far.
There are some generalized spells in the book, but as mentioned, nothing really guides the reader. The author does note that this was intentionally omited, but that word on the title... I had the impression the book would GUIDE me more.
The information about spirits seems pretty accurate. The parts about some deities wasn't always, but usually was. These parts were enjoyable, so the book is still good if you're into that sort of thing. If you're looking for a guide on folk witchcraft, then you might want to look at something else, because this book really won't get you far.
July 24, 2019
This book was deeply enjoyable. Roger Horne is well spoken and organized. He says exactly as much as he needs to say and often asks question readers need to answer on their own. He offers some lore mostly from the British islands, but he openly suggests the lore itself will have little value if the land or life you lead is to disparate from the sources. He encourages readers to listen and observe the land around them and to study local traditions of their area to best connect to the local spirits.
The rules are your own. The goals are yours and the knowledge/enlightenment you need is sought between you, your cunning, and the spirits you encounter. How empowering and awesome. Horne has relit my passion for the pagan faith. Where other authors seem to close paths and doorways, Horne opens them, suggesting time and further practice can help a practitioner walk through the door.
If you are a fact chaser or lore seeker (and I am both) he offers a lengthy list of further texts to check out. A quick google and amazon search brought further reading on both ancestral practices and on local practices where I reside.
This book doesn't give you a step by step practice. It doesn't tell you why to practice witchcraft or what you can expect from your practice. It offers a direction and tools for self exploration and further research. Overall it's an inspiring read that suggests many possibilities without forcing readers down a prescribed path.
This book is best suited for beginners to intermediate seekers looking for a non-wicca but still British/Irish/Scottish flavored witchcraft. The reader should be comfortable trying a few form rituals/practices and growing from their own experiences instead of leaning on the book to provide expected outcomes or a step by step detailed working.
The rules are your own. The goals are yours and the knowledge/enlightenment you need is sought between you, your cunning, and the spirits you encounter. How empowering and awesome. Horne has relit my passion for the pagan faith. Where other authors seem to close paths and doorways, Horne opens them, suggesting time and further practice can help a practitioner walk through the door.
If you are a fact chaser or lore seeker (and I am both) he offers a lengthy list of further texts to check out. A quick google and amazon search brought further reading on both ancestral practices and on local practices where I reside.
This book doesn't give you a step by step practice. It doesn't tell you why to practice witchcraft or what you can expect from your practice. It offers a direction and tools for self exploration and further research. Overall it's an inspiring read that suggests many possibilities without forcing readers down a prescribed path.
This book is best suited for beginners to intermediate seekers looking for a non-wicca but still British/Irish/Scottish flavored witchcraft. The reader should be comfortable trying a few form rituals/practices and growing from their own experiences instead of leaning on the book to provide expected outcomes or a step by step detailed working.
August 2, 2021
Genuinely surprised this has decent ratings. I didn't think this book had much to offer. Too damaging and non-specific to be good for beginners. And only confusion from me. Which is amazing since the author is clearly well-read, well-researched, and a long-time practitioner. Maybe it will be better upon another read, but frankly, there was a lot of harmful information that I really didn't agree with concerning spirit etiquette. Among other things.
October 5, 2023
One of the best books about witchcraft I have read lately. The author has a lovely tone. They are able to both honour the past and call out some of the problematic aspects in contemporary occult and pagan circles.
December 13, 2021
A quick read, a good source for the novice folk traditional witch.
April 1, 2025
A lovely quick, easy & nostalgic read that felt like sitting by a crackling fire in a wingback armchair. Very charming 🧙♀️
November 16, 2024
If you’re looking for a “how-to-guide” on folk and traditional witchcraft for solitary practices I 10/10 recommend this book. It goes in depth both with the practices but also the history of folk Witchcraft in Europe especially from Celtic to Italian folk traditions Roger definitely shows how we can all adapt and be inspired about our craft. Great book if you really want to get your hands dirty and a good starting point on the basics of folk magic. Chants, songs, folk tales, sigils, poppets, how to banish evil spirits. What I also love about him is that he isn’t afraid to include baneful practices, which is a very valid form of witchcraft especially for minorities who suffered or continued to suffer from injustices. How to bless and curse someone is on the same page and he doesn’t sugar-coat it at all he condemns racism, sexism, homophobia, etc. within the witchcraft community which he points out shouldn’t be happening within the modern day witchcraft space.
It’s very easy to read and short and simple iit gets straight into the point. From shapeshifting, Spirit flight, Fetches, charms, poppets, to ritual circles, chants, deity work, witches sabbaths very traditional and not at all Wiccan. Wicca and Traditional witchcraft is two separate things, Wicca is under the umbrella of traditional witchcraft. He has a decent amount of sources in the bibliography which is great, nowhere I find he sourced Wikipedia or shady blogs but actual academic and well written sources mostly based on historical evidence. Which I am very happy with.
It’s very easy to read and short and simple iit gets straight into the point. From shapeshifting, Spirit flight, Fetches, charms, poppets, to ritual circles, chants, deity work, witches sabbaths very traditional and not at all Wiccan. Wicca and Traditional witchcraft is two separate things, Wicca is under the umbrella of traditional witchcraft. He has a decent amount of sources in the bibliography which is great, nowhere I find he sourced Wikipedia or shady blogs but actual academic and well written sources mostly based on historical evidence. Which I am very happy with.
February 20, 2023
Part 1: lore: a list of other books I would have to purchase to actually read about lore.
Part 2: land: I really enjoyed this section. It is a great summary knowledge for both the beginner and practiced witch.
Part 3: familiar spirit: more summary knowledge
This book is a good book to help you decide what specifics you want to study. It's gives a brief description of alot of different topics to dive into a deeper learning. It wasn't exactly what I was expecting but I did like some of the practices and came across a few new concepts to look deeper into.
Part 2: land: I really enjoyed this section. It is a great summary knowledge for both the beginner and practiced witch.
Part 3: familiar spirit: more summary knowledge
This book is a good book to help you decide what specifics you want to study. It's gives a brief description of alot of different topics to dive into a deeper learning. It wasn't exactly what I was expecting but I did like some of the practices and came across a few new concepts to look deeper into.
January 12, 2022
This book maybe small in size but boy I loved what it had to say .. precise and effective information to digest easy for folk traditions in witchcraft. Love reading this book as it takes you through the different areas of folklore and familiar connections.. I soaked it up easy. The understanding where you can expand your understanding on connection to spirit flight and many other ways just really interesting read indeed. Love his books I have them all.
November 16, 2021
This wasn't exactly what I was looking for, but it presented some interesting exercises in medium/broad terms. After discussing spirit flight somewhat early in the book, most subsequent exercises built on the assumption you've got that down.
Kinda wish I'd gotten this one from the library.
Kinda wish I'd gotten this one from the library.
April 27, 2022
Loved basically all of it.
January 24, 2022
I see this book as an introductory grimoire to folk witchcraft, with a great dose of background, lore, and the author’s own thoughts on the craft and how to approach it. The book is written in a conversational style that is easy to read. The writing feels deep but never dense. One particularly noteworthy topic in this book is spirit flight. The author gives a good deal of information into how to do it, providing the groundwork for advancing your spirit work. He also discusses how to get to know your local land and the spirits which dwell there. There’s also an overview of some charms, sabbats and various rites, which help a beginner out who might be interested in these traditions. Like all good books, this book will point you in the direction of other fascinating books, including historic texts you may have never heard of. While this is a great book (probably better for beginners vs more advanced practitioners), I have one gripe and that would be the smattering of typos found throughout this text. They’re not major errors, but, it’s far more noticeable when it’s in a physical book. Bummer! But besides that, it’s a book I love, recommend and refer back to frequently.
May 1, 2022
A small book, easily digestible in an hour. However, the content requires much deeper analysis and many re-reads. I think this is the quintessential book on witchcraft. I have never read anything which treats the subject with such seriousness. I have poured over many a book on the "Craft" written by such characters as "The High Witch of the Golden Temple of Isis' Second Cousin Twice Removed, Mistress Raven Feather Obsidian Dark Night Hollyhock" with the same regurgitated drivel of the popular 80s Wicca movement. This is not that. My sole criticism is that this book offers ideas and poses questions, but gives few answers. I would lean to call it a theoretical book on Folk Witchcraft and I look forward to reading works by the same author to attempt to find a deeper understanding of their process.
August 29, 2024
It's not bad per se and there were a few things here and there that I liked, but wow it was frustrating to read.
"Books on the craft are published every day. These modern grammars usually share the author's rituals, their charms, their holidays, and provide step-by-step approach to conducting craft workings. [...] These books provide much of the how, but little of the why." (Introduction, p.18)
"The rituals and charms in this portion of the book are my own [...] In the style of a true grimoire, I present them without exercises, explanation, or footnotes." (p.151)
???
The author's main advice is to do our own research and go from there. (Mmkay...) There is a bibliography but citations throughout the book are non-existent. Best to borrow from the library.
"Books on the craft are published every day. These modern grammars usually share the author's rituals, their charms, their holidays, and provide step-by-step approach to conducting craft workings. [...] These books provide much of the how, but little of the why." (Introduction, p.18)
"The rituals and charms in this portion of the book are my own [...] In the style of a true grimoire, I present them without exercises, explanation, or footnotes." (p.151)
???
The author's main advice is to do our own research and go from there. (Mmkay...) There is a bibliography but citations throughout the book are non-existent. Best to borrow from the library.
December 6, 2021
I thought this book was really lovely! I really enjoyed the topics covered in the book, especially the parts about familiars and the lore of the land around you. It was a fairly quick read so it didn't feel like too much of a chore to get through either.
My only real complaint is that I wish the explanatory sections were a little longer and a bit more in-depth! There were a few sections that felt just a tad surface level, so I wish there was a bit more depth to a couple of spots!
My only real complaint is that I wish the explanatory sections were a little longer and a bit more in-depth! There were a few sections that felt just a tad surface level, so I wish there was a bit more depth to a couple of spots!
May 12, 2024
This book introduces a variety of interesting topics. Unfortunately, the author barely skims the surface on each one. I feel like this book is the spark notes versions of folk witchcraft.
You can collect ideas or further topics to study, but you can’t get anywhere with just this book.
I wasn’t expecting it to be so geared towards beginners, so I’m pretty let down.
You can collect ideas or further topics to study, but you can’t get anywhere with just this book.
I wasn’t expecting it to be so geared towards beginners, so I’m pretty let down.
March 6, 2021
One of the most helpful books I’ve ever had the pleasure to read about witchcraft.
August 29, 2022
This was an okay-ish read. Easy to understand and good for beginners but it didn't bring anything new to the table and was just a tad too general for me personally.
November 24, 2025
Good book; baring the bones of Witchery.
October 15, 2025
I’m being generous with the 3 star rating, because I believe the author to be knowledgeable, well-researched, and connected to the Land. So I can’t knock it down to a 2. Yet this book is a surface level read, and little that’s especially insightful. Doubly frustrating as Horne states that in the 2nd edition he gets to add ‘expanded explanations’. I hate to think how more obscure was the first edition.
On the other hand, if you’re new to the craft and prefer a non-new-age perspective and less Wiccan, this will have you salivating for what’s possible. Is that alone worth the full price of this book? That’s subjective. In this day and age, you’ll find much to inspire & guide you online. But perhaps a book in hand will reach a part of you the online world can’t.
‘What’s possible’ is also key, because despite the title, there’s little to no guidance. Spirit flight is a hefty topic and certainly not for the beginner. The book merely touches on the concept, which is understandable yet will be frustrating for anyone wanting a, you know, guide.
The Land section is short but noteworthy for its foundational witchery. The connection to the natural world is what makes what we do witchery, rather than ceremonial magick or sorcery or other seemingly related Ways. If you’re a beginner then this is vital to understand. Similar to connection with familiars, which he touches upon. ‘Lore, land & Spirit’ is where I applaud him.
The other key aspect of note, for me, is that it’s ‘less Wiccan’. Not, not Wiccan. Despite the claim to folk craft, there’s a merging with what is simply paganism, and touches of ceremonial practices. Traditional witches celebrating Candlemas or using planetary correspondences? Seriously?
Goetic spirits? This section of other spirits was such a sprinkled mishmash of lores, practices and cultures, to render it useless. In such a short and specific book, this wasn’t an acceptable tangent.
Returning to my ‘less but not, not Wiccan’ point, when I saw ‘esbats’ mentioned and how he described them, I had to push through to continue.
Horne states:
“Esbat is a term derived from French sources, and it usually refers to a time of playfulness and frolic”
It almost sounds ancient and mysterious. Yet the term was essentially invented by Margaret Murray in the early 1920’s, and later popularised by Gerald Gardner for Wicca. He could have deleted that addition and centred on possible full moon rites, keeping it to nature and folk workings.
Stating that the full moon is an important time for witches is a bit twee.
Despite taking up a modern term attached to witchcraft by an anthropologist, he dislikes the very reasonable word ‘traditional’. As it implies, to him, a cohesive tradition which can’t exist. This is where he suffers from the same affliction as many, brilliant, but male Western writers on the subject. Neatly emphasised by his use of the male pronoun for witches.
As many like him don’t have a strong familial heritage, or matriarchal link, they assume that a craft tradition that’s very old doesn’t exist. Whereas many cultures have passed down stories, lore, secrets and such, witch-related or otherwise, that are, at least, hundreds of years, old. Secondly, this shared knowledge, is often passed down orally. Thereby the very academic men just presume and then insist, modern witchcraft can only be reconstructionist. I would agree that there isn’t one single tradition of course.
So this book offers a male-centric perspective. Albeit one rooted well in old lore. But sprinkled with a few modern ‘spiritual’ viewpoints, lots of paganism, occult practices, and non-witch magick. I do credit him for occasionally pointing out that it’s his understandings. Although this can add to the readers’ confusion of what then is old lore craft?
Perhaps his use of the word ‘guide’ in the title is that this book is a sort of - Things to Consider in Folk Witchcraft. It’ll leave you with a hundred more questions but that’s not a bad thing, if you accept that’s what you’re buying. Beginners eager for Old Ways and tired of fluff could also find a friend in these pages.
My respect for his personal journey, study & actual hands-dirty Knowings. But I’m at a loss to why he chose to add what he did along the way.
On the other hand, if you’re new to the craft and prefer a non-new-age perspective and less Wiccan, this will have you salivating for what’s possible. Is that alone worth the full price of this book? That’s subjective. In this day and age, you’ll find much to inspire & guide you online. But perhaps a book in hand will reach a part of you the online world can’t.
‘What’s possible’ is also key, because despite the title, there’s little to no guidance. Spirit flight is a hefty topic and certainly not for the beginner. The book merely touches on the concept, which is understandable yet will be frustrating for anyone wanting a, you know, guide.
The Land section is short but noteworthy for its foundational witchery. The connection to the natural world is what makes what we do witchery, rather than ceremonial magick or sorcery or other seemingly related Ways. If you’re a beginner then this is vital to understand. Similar to connection with familiars, which he touches upon. ‘Lore, land & Spirit’ is where I applaud him.
The other key aspect of note, for me, is that it’s ‘less Wiccan’. Not, not Wiccan. Despite the claim to folk craft, there’s a merging with what is simply paganism, and touches of ceremonial practices. Traditional witches celebrating Candlemas or using planetary correspondences? Seriously?
Goetic spirits? This section of other spirits was such a sprinkled mishmash of lores, practices and cultures, to render it useless. In such a short and specific book, this wasn’t an acceptable tangent.
Returning to my ‘less but not, not Wiccan’ point, when I saw ‘esbats’ mentioned and how he described them, I had to push through to continue.
Horne states:
“Esbat is a term derived from French sources, and it usually refers to a time of playfulness and frolic”
It almost sounds ancient and mysterious. Yet the term was essentially invented by Margaret Murray in the early 1920’s, and later popularised by Gerald Gardner for Wicca. He could have deleted that addition and centred on possible full moon rites, keeping it to nature and folk workings.
Stating that the full moon is an important time for witches is a bit twee.
Despite taking up a modern term attached to witchcraft by an anthropologist, he dislikes the very reasonable word ‘traditional’. As it implies, to him, a cohesive tradition which can’t exist. This is where he suffers from the same affliction as many, brilliant, but male Western writers on the subject. Neatly emphasised by his use of the male pronoun for witches.
As many like him don’t have a strong familial heritage, or matriarchal link, they assume that a craft tradition that’s very old doesn’t exist. Whereas many cultures have passed down stories, lore, secrets and such, witch-related or otherwise, that are, at least, hundreds of years, old. Secondly, this shared knowledge, is often passed down orally. Thereby the very academic men just presume and then insist, modern witchcraft can only be reconstructionist. I would agree that there isn’t one single tradition of course.
So this book offers a male-centric perspective. Albeit one rooted well in old lore. But sprinkled with a few modern ‘spiritual’ viewpoints, lots of paganism, occult practices, and non-witch magick. I do credit him for occasionally pointing out that it’s his understandings. Although this can add to the readers’ confusion of what then is old lore craft?
Perhaps his use of the word ‘guide’ in the title is that this book is a sort of - Things to Consider in Folk Witchcraft. It’ll leave you with a hundred more questions but that’s not a bad thing, if you accept that’s what you’re buying. Beginners eager for Old Ways and tired of fluff could also find a friend in these pages.
My respect for his personal journey, study & actual hands-dirty Knowings. But I’m at a loss to why he chose to add what he did along the way.
May 5, 2025
Book Review: Folk Witchcraft: A Guide to Lore, Land, and the Familiar Spirit for the Solitary Practitioner by Roger J. Horne
(A Woman’s Perspective on Reclaiming Animistic Witchcraft in Modern Practice)
Roger J. Horne’s Folk Witchcraft: A Guide to Lore, Land, and the Familiar Spirit for the Solitary Practitioner offers a refreshing departure from commercialized neo-paganism by grounding witchcraft in earthy, animistic traditions. Written from a solitary practitioner’s perspective, the book speaks particularly to women seeking to reconnect with folk magic outside institutionalized traditions—those often dominated by patriarchal structures or diluted by modern consumer spirituality. Horne’s emphasis on land-based practice, ancestral veneration, and the cultivation of relationships with familiar spirits provides a framework that aligns with women’s historical roles as keepers of hearth and hedge magic.
Key Themes and Strengths
The Witch as Folk Healer and Storyteller
Horne’s portrayal of witchcraft as a localized, oral tradition resonates with women’s historical roles as community healers and lore-keepers. His focus on folk charms, plant wisdom, and weather lore revives practices often dismissed as “women’s superstition” while resisting the commodification of modern witchcraft.
Land and Belonging in a Displaced World
The book’s insistence on forming deep ties with the land—rather than abstract deity worship—speaks to women’s experiences of seeking rootedness in an increasingly disconnected society. Horne’s approach validates intuitive, place-based spirituality, countering the alienation many women feel in urbanized, digital cultures.
The Familiar Spirit as Feminist Ally
Horne’s treatment of familiar spirits as co-conspirators rather than servitors echoes feminist relational ethics. For women navigating patriarchal spiritual systems, this model offers an empowering alternative to hierarchical deity worship, emphasizing partnership with the unseen.
Solitary Practice as Resistance
While acknowledging communal traditions, Horne champions solitary craft—a stance that may appeal to women excluded from male-dominated occult circles or seeking autonomy outside coven structures. His methods validate personal gnosis, a radical act in a world that often dismisses women’s spiritual authority.
Accessible Animism Without Appropriation
Unlike many contemporary witchcraft books, Horne avoids exoticizing non-European traditions. His focus on Anglo-American folkways provides a culturally specific path without claiming universality—an approach that allows women to explore ancestral magic without resorting to spiritual tourism.
Critique
While Horne’s work is deeply valuable, it occasionally romanticizes pre-modern rural life without fully addressing the hardships women faced in those contexts. The book could benefit from deeper engagement with how class, race, and colonialism intersect with folk magic—particularly since marginalized women have often borne the brunt of persecution while their knowledge was erased or appropriated.
Conclusion
Folk Witchcraft is a vital contribution to modern practice, offering a path that honors women’s historical roles in folk magic while adapting them for contemporary solitary seekers. Its greatest strength lies in its rejection of performative spirituality in favor of slow, land-attuned craft—a quiet but radical act in an age of instant gratification. Women readers will find in Horne’s work both a practical guide and an implicit validation of the intuitive, relational magic that has long been coded as feminine.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
A grounded, poetic antidote to flashy spellbooks—think of it as Braiding Sweetgrass meets The Visions of Isobel Gowdie, with a focus on the witch’s everyday communion with the unseen.
(A Woman’s Perspective on Reclaiming Animistic Witchcraft in Modern Practice)
Roger J. Horne’s Folk Witchcraft: A Guide to Lore, Land, and the Familiar Spirit for the Solitary Practitioner offers a refreshing departure from commercialized neo-paganism by grounding witchcraft in earthy, animistic traditions. Written from a solitary practitioner’s perspective, the book speaks particularly to women seeking to reconnect with folk magic outside institutionalized traditions—those often dominated by patriarchal structures or diluted by modern consumer spirituality. Horne’s emphasis on land-based practice, ancestral veneration, and the cultivation of relationships with familiar spirits provides a framework that aligns with women’s historical roles as keepers of hearth and hedge magic.
Key Themes and Strengths
The Witch as Folk Healer and Storyteller
Horne’s portrayal of witchcraft as a localized, oral tradition resonates with women’s historical roles as community healers and lore-keepers. His focus on folk charms, plant wisdom, and weather lore revives practices often dismissed as “women’s superstition” while resisting the commodification of modern witchcraft.
Land and Belonging in a Displaced World
The book’s insistence on forming deep ties with the land—rather than abstract deity worship—speaks to women’s experiences of seeking rootedness in an increasingly disconnected society. Horne’s approach validates intuitive, place-based spirituality, countering the alienation many women feel in urbanized, digital cultures.
The Familiar Spirit as Feminist Ally
Horne’s treatment of familiar spirits as co-conspirators rather than servitors echoes feminist relational ethics. For women navigating patriarchal spiritual systems, this model offers an empowering alternative to hierarchical deity worship, emphasizing partnership with the unseen.
Solitary Practice as Resistance
While acknowledging communal traditions, Horne champions solitary craft—a stance that may appeal to women excluded from male-dominated occult circles or seeking autonomy outside coven structures. His methods validate personal gnosis, a radical act in a world that often dismisses women’s spiritual authority.
Accessible Animism Without Appropriation
Unlike many contemporary witchcraft books, Horne avoids exoticizing non-European traditions. His focus on Anglo-American folkways provides a culturally specific path without claiming universality—an approach that allows women to explore ancestral magic without resorting to spiritual tourism.
Critique
While Horne’s work is deeply valuable, it occasionally romanticizes pre-modern rural life without fully addressing the hardships women faced in those contexts. The book could benefit from deeper engagement with how class, race, and colonialism intersect with folk magic—particularly since marginalized women have often borne the brunt of persecution while their knowledge was erased or appropriated.
Conclusion
Folk Witchcraft is a vital contribution to modern practice, offering a path that honors women’s historical roles in folk magic while adapting them for contemporary solitary seekers. Its greatest strength lies in its rejection of performative spirituality in favor of slow, land-attuned craft—a quiet but radical act in an age of instant gratification. Women readers will find in Horne’s work both a practical guide and an implicit validation of the intuitive, relational magic that has long been coded as feminine.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
A grounded, poetic antidote to flashy spellbooks—think of it as Braiding Sweetgrass meets The Visions of Isobel Gowdie, with a focus on the witch’s everyday communion with the unseen.
September 23, 2025
A strong voice against the cunninghamification of witchcraft
Roger Horne calls to us to use our brains and connect with our practices from within; to experiment, to experience instead of follow.
I think he said it best in his conclusion:
“we have, in a ways, created a world in which it is more feasible to purchase a thing than to make it with our hands, easier to sell our time than to survive on our own creativity and the sweat of our brows.”
And
“it is easier to buy a book, even ten books that promise to teach the complete secrets of yoga, of the tarot, and yes, even of witchcraft. Ingredients and dried herbs imported from all over the planet can be had at the click of a button. Stones mined from impoverished countries are cheap to order. The commodification of mystery cheapens our practices our magics — like a faint scent of plastic that can’t be washed from a sweater made in a factory.”
Apart from the fact that i am in absolute awe of the writing of this author, i think that this book makes the reader feel seen. He understands the pain and confusion which comes with not knowing who to follow, having to discover everything on your own in a day and age where witchcraft has become a fast fashion identity. When you buy your supplies at urban outfitters, your connects feels like a 2010 skype call to a friend in an other country; unsteady, uncertain and unreliable.
Even though i don’t practice the same ways as the author does and probably won’t use the grammar section of the book; roger horne’s voice is like a guiding light. Away from the colonisation, appropriation and trendy aspects of witchcraft, toward your own intuition, your own experience and your own voice.
Absolutely a great read.
September 27, 2024
Folk Witchcraft: A Guide to Lore, Land, and the Familiar Spirit for the Solitary Practitioner by Roger J. Horne is a solid and engaging read that offers a refreshing take on the traditional witchcraft path. What sets this book apart is how deeply it connects modern practice with the rich history and folklore of witchcraft, blending older traditions with practical guidance that is easily adaptable for solitary practitioners today. Horne has a clear reverence for the craft’s roots, and it shows in his detailed explanations of charms, rituals, and spirit-work, all while maintaining a flexible, non-dogmatic approach that encourages experimentation and personal discovery.
The book’s strength lies in its emphasis on establishing a personal relationship with the land, familiar spirits, and the natural world around you. The sections on spirit-flight, seasonal rituals, and the crafting of charms are particularly strong, offering both instruction and insight that will deepen the reader’s understanding of folk magic. However, some of the content might feel a bit too dense or niche for newcomers, and a few sections lean more heavily on poetic language than straightforward guidance. Despite this, the sheer variety of techniques and the author’s thoughtful presentation make it a valuable addition to any witch’s library. Overall, it’s a four-star read that’s rich in tradition and packed with practical advice for those looking to explore the deeper roots of witchcraft.
The book’s strength lies in its emphasis on establishing a personal relationship with the land, familiar spirits, and the natural world around you. The sections on spirit-flight, seasonal rituals, and the crafting of charms are particularly strong, offering both instruction and insight that will deepen the reader’s understanding of folk magic. However, some of the content might feel a bit too dense or niche for newcomers, and a few sections lean more heavily on poetic language than straightforward guidance. Despite this, the sheer variety of techniques and the author’s thoughtful presentation make it a valuable addition to any witch’s library. Overall, it’s a four-star read that’s rich in tradition and packed with practical advice for those looking to explore the deeper roots of witchcraft.
December 18, 2024
Many times I find that certain types of books find their way to you just when you need them, even though you may not know you do at first. When I picked up this book I expected it to be more of an everyday daily folk craft practice kinda book. Just a collection of common everyday rituals done by common folk in the past and how they used to think doing it. Instead I found myself holding the entryway to my spirit practice.
When I received this I had just lost someone dear to me, and this book has helped me in finding new ways to connect with them and finding peace with their sudden passing.
The book is strongly focused on spirit work in many forms. I loved the chapters about different landspirits as well. But mostly I love that it introduced me to something Ive been hesitating to touch until now in such a gentle way. I will come back to this many times, as it is not just a recipe book of rituals but it gives you the backbone to stand on your own two legs and work from there.
The only part I found lacking a little bit was a missing chapter about some of the gods/godesses/spirits mentioned. There would be very little facts about them but a whole ritual to summon them. A whole chapter was made with other recommended reading, however, and there are probably other sources focusing on all of them, yet a short section would be fitting still I reckon.
Other than that I enjoyed it and I would recommend it to anyone interested in dipping their toes into spirit work.
When I received this I had just lost someone dear to me, and this book has helped me in finding new ways to connect with them and finding peace with their sudden passing.
The book is strongly focused on spirit work in many forms. I loved the chapters about different landspirits as well. But mostly I love that it introduced me to something Ive been hesitating to touch until now in such a gentle way. I will come back to this many times, as it is not just a recipe book of rituals but it gives you the backbone to stand on your own two legs and work from there.
The only part I found lacking a little bit was a missing chapter about some of the gods/godesses/spirits mentioned. There would be very little facts about them but a whole ritual to summon them. A whole chapter was made with other recommended reading, however, and there are probably other sources focusing on all of them, yet a short section would be fitting still I reckon.
Other than that I enjoyed it and I would recommend it to anyone interested in dipping their toes into spirit work.
August 26, 2023
It's apparent that the significance of this book might elude the eager practitioner seeking an abundance of recipes and spells. However, this book stands as a prime example of of concealing profound wisdom in plain sight, which is likely why it's considered a modern classic by those with more experience.
Roger J. Horne masterfully cultivates a captivating ambiance for readers. His authentic approach evokes the manner in which my elders share knowledge—subtle, yet direct. The enigmatic style, which invites readers to embark on their own explorations, possesses a paradoxical quality. On one hand, it aligns with the most effective way, in my experience, to acquire genuine craft knowledge. On the other hand, it could convey the sense that the teacher refrains from explicit instruction. This dual nature might be puzzling for eager practitioners. Personally, I think that the author could have occasionally delved more comprehensively and integrated additional detailed guidance in order to avoid loosing the chance of reaching that public, which predominantly consists of younger practitioners.
With that said, the book serves as an excellent guide for those who are ready to delve into their practice and explore the uncharted territories of their own abilities.
Roger J. Horne masterfully cultivates a captivating ambiance for readers. His authentic approach evokes the manner in which my elders share knowledge—subtle, yet direct. The enigmatic style, which invites readers to embark on their own explorations, possesses a paradoxical quality. On one hand, it aligns with the most effective way, in my experience, to acquire genuine craft knowledge. On the other hand, it could convey the sense that the teacher refrains from explicit instruction. This dual nature might be puzzling for eager practitioners. Personally, I think that the author could have occasionally delved more comprehensively and integrated additional detailed guidance in order to avoid loosing the chance of reaching that public, which predominantly consists of younger practitioners.
With that said, the book serves as an excellent guide for those who are ready to delve into their practice and explore the uncharted territories of their own abilities.
November 13, 2024
Folk Witchcraft is a rare find in the world of witchcraft books—one that feels rooted in something timeless yet practical enough to apply in daily practice. Roger J. Horne leads you through the lore and magic of the land with a warmth that makes it feel like you’re sitting by a fire, listening to an elder share stories. His approach is refreshingly non-dogmatic, giving you tools to connect deeply with nature, the spirit world, and your own instincts as a witch.
Horne’s emphasis on personal exploration and interaction with familiar spirits is a highlight. He doesn’t just hand you a set of rituals; he invites you to cultivate your own connection with the “Old Ones” and to experiment with traditional practices like spirit-flight and charm crafting. Though I would have loved a bit more depth in certain areas, especially when it comes to herb lore, the book’s focus on adapting folklore to a solitary practice feels authentic and rewarding. For those looking to step away from prescribed rituals and explore folk magic on their own terms, this is a beautifully crafted guide worth diving into.
Horne’s emphasis on personal exploration and interaction with familiar spirits is a highlight. He doesn’t just hand you a set of rituals; he invites you to cultivate your own connection with the “Old Ones” and to experiment with traditional practices like spirit-flight and charm crafting. Though I would have loved a bit more depth in certain areas, especially when it comes to herb lore, the book’s focus on adapting folklore to a solitary practice feels authentic and rewarding. For those looking to step away from prescribed rituals and explore folk magic on their own terms, this is a beautifully crafted guide worth diving into.
July 6, 2025
A very accessible, fast, and easy read. As someone with their degree in history whose primary interest was ancient Greek/Roman and classical myth, I question some of the author's claims about certain beliefs and mythos. The parts regarding folk practice in itself were very helpful, however.
Can say for certain that this is not a book for every practitioner but is a good place to start, while maintaining a critical eye. Be wary that quite a few sources the author listed are from periods of blatant fabrication and hyper-spiritualism, where they would make up claims and sources for popularity/clout. Not sure how many of the sources the author used are credible, so I'll be doing my own personal research separately.
Can say for certain that this is not a book for every practitioner but is a good place to start, while maintaining a critical eye. Be wary that quite a few sources the author listed are from periods of blatant fabrication and hyper-spiritualism, where they would make up claims and sources for popularity/clout. Not sure how many of the sources the author used are credible, so I'll be doing my own personal research separately.
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