Magickal, Mystical Creatures: Invite Their Powers into Your Life

by D.J. Conway

Here is an occult encyclopedia of over two hundred magickal creatures, from pookas and green men to gorgons and gargoyles. Included are their history, symbolism, appearance, associated traits, and magickal abilities. More important, however, is the included information on how to use the energies and talents of these creatures to empower your magickal workings, rituals, and meditations. Use the secrets of these creatures to eliminate barriers blocking your magickal and personal progress.

Genres: Nonfiction, Mythology, Reference, Paganism, Wicca, Spirituality, Magick

272 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1996

About the author

A native of the Pacific Northwest, author D.J. Conway has studied the occult fields for over 35 years. Her quest for knowledge has covered every aspect of Paganism and Wicca to New Age and Eastern philosophies; plus history, the magical arts, philosophy, customs, mythologies and folklore. In 1998, she was voted Best Wiccan and New Age author by Silver Chalice, a Pagan magazine.

She lives a rather quiet life, with most of her time spent researching and writing.

Reviews

[Nadia · Rating 4 out of 5]

"As with Dragons, these mythical, mystical beings at one time had greater contact with humans than they do now. Ancient cultures believed it was possible to make direct contact with astral beings and creatures, something now looked upon as foolishness by a great many of the unenlightened. Because of unbelief and skepticism (which usually translates into hostility), astral creatures have found it advantageous to keep within their own realm and avoid most humans. After all, if an astral being manifests itself clearly enough to be seen or at least felt, the usual reaction by close-minded humans is to attack. The aggressiveness and unpredictability of the average human is enough to cause most astral creatures to remain hidden from sight and avoid contact."

This is a concise, edifying and engaging read, which includes psychological & magickal attributes, as well as the various names and cultural distinctions of many species, moving the discussion beyond Dragons, Unicorns, and Sphinxes. D.J. has created a cogent reference guide and resource, which also provides invaluable instruction about working Magik and methods of creating Sacred Space.

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a great resource for those interested in a clear, concise summary of magickal creatures from all over the world. While it’s not a complete reference, this book covers not only familiar creatures, but ones that are more obscure.

The illustrations are helpful and I’d wish there’d been more of them. The writing is clear and well organized. Each section is divided into categories, such as unicorns, centaurs, gigantic birds, lions, serpents, etc. The author refers to each creatures’ psychological strengths, weaknesses, and magickal attributes. The magickal attributes are a quick guide for those who wish to work with these creatures through spells and ritual.

At the beginning and end of the book, the author asks readers to keep an open mind about the possibility that these creatures may well exist on other astral planes. She does acknowledge that the subject won’t resonate with everyone, but makes a convincing argument as to why we should keep our minds open to what can’t be seen.

[Amber · Rating 2 out of 5]

Pro: good jumping off point for research about mythological creatures
Con: terribly plagarized & a bit kooky

[Claudia Loureiro · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a very interesting read about the various mythical beasts. I'm glad to say this book covers a lot of ground, offering information for each creature, and also advice for working with them. I especially appreciated the research Ms. Conway did on the various legends and tales of the creatures she presented.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Love theses books.