What do you think?
Rate this book
Witchery – Entdecke die Hexe in dir: Die Schule der Weißen Magie
Welcoming the curious, beginner and advanced witch, Witchery is an exciting new title from one of the leading witches on Instagram to help readers believe in their magic and have confidence in their practice.
Now is a time of great change, with many people choosing to embrace the 'old ways'. The younger generation is turning back towards the natural energies of Mother Earth, moving away from the fast-paced wave of modern progress, and finding ways to include natural rituals, magic, and spirituality in their lives.
For practicing and curious witches alike, Witchery is a companion to be used over and over again, filled with guidance, wisdom, and inspiration. Juliet Diaz, a hereditary witch from a long line of witches and creator of The School of Witchery and November Sage Apothecary, has combined her favourite spells, potion recipes and DIY herbal remedies, as well as moon, crystal and herbal magic in this compendium. Juliet explores the different forms of divination and offers guidance on how the reader can use them to unlock their powers. Witchery also works with the seasons of the witch, helping you to harness the unique energy of each Sabbat to amplify your magic.
Practical information includes: how to adjust your altar for each season; which specific incense, crystals, herbs, candles or spells work best during a particular season; spells, potions and healing rituals you can build into your everyday life; and much more.
When you receive your book, you will anoint it in a special ceremony to connect you to it, and begin your transformational journey towards a life of nature wisdom, spiritual intuition, and magical guidance, unlocking the powers that already live inside you.
Now is a time of great change, with many people choosing to embrace the 'old ways'. The younger generation is turning back towards the natural energies of Mother Earth, moving away from the fast-paced wave of modern progress, and finding ways to include natural rituals, magic, and spirituality in their lives.
For practicing and curious witches alike, Witchery is a companion to be used over and over again, filled with guidance, wisdom, and inspiration. Juliet Diaz, a hereditary witch from a long line of witches and creator of The School of Witchery and November Sage Apothecary, has combined her favourite spells, potion recipes and DIY herbal remedies, as well as moon, crystal and herbal magic in this compendium. Juliet explores the different forms of divination and offers guidance on how the reader can use them to unlock their powers. Witchery also works with the seasons of the witch, helping you to harness the unique energy of each Sabbat to amplify your magic.
Practical information includes: how to adjust your altar for each season; which specific incense, crystals, herbs, candles or spells work best during a particular season; spells, potions and healing rituals you can build into your everyday life; and much more.
When you receive your book, you will anoint it in a special ceremony to connect you to it, and begin your transformational journey towards a life of nature wisdom, spiritual intuition, and magical guidance, unlocking the powers that already live inside you.
225 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 5, 2019
1514 people are currently reading
9014 people want to read
About the author
Juliet Diaz
24 books338 followersWRITER, AUTHOR, & LITERARY ACTIVIST
Juliet Diaz is a neurodivergent Indigenous Taíno and first-generation Cuban American, as well as an award-winning, internationally bestselling author, and activist.
Her writing is rooted in liberatory and decolonial themes, empowering others to reclaim their voices, align with their truth, and embrace their innate magic and humanity.
As the co-founder of the Literary Craft Society, she leads a revolutionary writing community dedicated to fostering change, healing, and liberation through the transformative power of words.
Her works, including Witchery: Embrace the Witch Within, Plant Witchery, The Altar Within, The Seasons of the Witch Oracle Deck series, and The Earthcraft Oracle Deck, have inspired thousands across the world to create meaningful change within themselves and their communities.
Join my newsletter community: https://iamjulietdiaz.substack.com
Website: www.iamjulietdiaz.com
Juliet Diaz is a neurodivergent Indigenous Taíno and first-generation Cuban American, as well as an award-winning, internationally bestselling author, and activist.
Her writing is rooted in liberatory and decolonial themes, empowering others to reclaim their voices, align with their truth, and embrace their innate magic and humanity.
As the co-founder of the Literary Craft Society, she leads a revolutionary writing community dedicated to fostering change, healing, and liberation through the transformative power of words.
Her works, including Witchery: Embrace the Witch Within, Plant Witchery, The Altar Within, The Seasons of the Witch Oracle Deck series, and The Earthcraft Oracle Deck, have inspired thousands across the world to create meaningful change within themselves and their communities.
Join my newsletter community: https://iamjulietdiaz.substack.com
Website: www.iamjulietdiaz.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 327 reviews
May 25, 2019
I liked this book. It's very much a beginner book, more "witch 101" than I usually buy, but I figured it's written by a WOC so I needed it.
I liked:
- The "Practice Responsibly"!!! I appreciated earlier in the book that she didn't use the term "smudging" but rather cleansing and clarified why near the end. As a Cree person who was taught to traditionally smudge by my kokum, I really appreciate this.
- The seasons of the witch section. I love a straight-forward correspondences section.
- The "Love Letter" in the back
- Her personal stories embedded throughout. I would totally read a memoir by her.
A few things I didn't love:
- the spells are very "ingredient heavy", some including rarer ingredients such as high john the conqueror and dried white horehound. Lots of essential oils. It's not super accessible, but to be fair, Diaz is a herbalist so it makes sense that they're relied on!
- This is certainly not specific to the book and is present in so many witchy books, but I am not a fan of the whole "positive vibes only" thing. One small example from this book is "always protect yourself by staying away from negative people or situations" (p. 18)
Conflict and other "negative" things can spur growth. We can't be comfortable and happy all the time. Sometimes we need to fight. Sometimes we need to be angry. Sometimes we need to interact with difficult, hurt people. Sometimes people you love are difficult, hurt people with "negative vibes". No, I don't mean it's your job to fix people or put your own wellness on the line, but I certainly don't think you need to "unfriend" someone because they're "negative". Again, this certainly isn't specific to this book only, but this mentality is present throughout.
I liked:
- The "Practice Responsibly"!!! I appreciated earlier in the book that she didn't use the term "smudging" but rather cleansing and clarified why near the end. As a Cree person who was taught to traditionally smudge by my kokum, I really appreciate this.
- The seasons of the witch section. I love a straight-forward correspondences section.
- The "Love Letter" in the back
- Her personal stories embedded throughout. I would totally read a memoir by her.
A few things I didn't love:
- the spells are very "ingredient heavy", some including rarer ingredients such as high john the conqueror and dried white horehound. Lots of essential oils. It's not super accessible, but to be fair, Diaz is a herbalist so it makes sense that they're relied on!
- This is certainly not specific to the book and is present in so many witchy books, but I am not a fan of the whole "positive vibes only" thing. One small example from this book is "always protect yourself by staying away from negative people or situations" (p. 18)
Conflict and other "negative" things can spur growth. We can't be comfortable and happy all the time. Sometimes we need to fight. Sometimes we need to be angry. Sometimes we need to interact with difficult, hurt people. Sometimes people you love are difficult, hurt people with "negative vibes". No, I don't mean it's your job to fix people or put your own wellness on the line, but I certainly don't think you need to "unfriend" someone because they're "negative". Again, this certainly isn't specific to this book only, but this mentality is present throughout.
February 13, 2025
I have the Kindle version and have had it for a couple years now. I ended up renting the audiobook on Libby so I could listen to it while I’m out and around.
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
In this book, author Juliet Diaz sets this book up as a companion for new witches to learn how to practice witchcraft and Wicca alike. There are cleansing rituals and spell-work that you can use in your everyday life. It’s certainly useful for new witches.
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
I enjoyed this a lot more than the last book I read but I feel like this is a book that is better read in physical form so you can flip back and forth between the spells with more ease.
I feel like this book is a better start than Harmony Nice’s book about Wicca because I feel like it contains more useful information than just a bland overview. That’s just me, though.
I love having a lot of information at my disposal but not too much that I get overwhelmed. When you have ADHD or autism like I do, that tends to happen quite often. lmao
I also like Juliet’s writing style but that may just be a me thing. I also like that she narrated the audiobook, which I listened to while I was out of the house.
This book didn’t take me very long at all and that’s what I enjoyed most about this book, I think. It wasn’t a slog for me, thank fuck. That was a relief, for sure.
I’d definitely recommend this book, especially if you’re just starting out on your Wicca or witchcraft journey. This is a book I’d definitely consider to be a necessary edition to your bookshelf.
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
In this book, author Juliet Diaz sets this book up as a companion for new witches to learn how to practice witchcraft and Wicca alike. There are cleansing rituals and spell-work that you can use in your everyday life. It’s certainly useful for new witches.
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
I enjoyed this a lot more than the last book I read but I feel like this is a book that is better read in physical form so you can flip back and forth between the spells with more ease.
I feel like this book is a better start than Harmony Nice’s book about Wicca because I feel like it contains more useful information than just a bland overview. That’s just me, though.
I love having a lot of information at my disposal but not too much that I get overwhelmed. When you have ADHD or autism like I do, that tends to happen quite often. lmao
I also like Juliet’s writing style but that may just be a me thing. I also like that she narrated the audiobook, which I listened to while I was out of the house.
This book didn’t take me very long at all and that’s what I enjoyed most about this book, I think. It wasn’t a slog for me, thank fuck. That was a relief, for sure.
I’d definitely recommend this book, especially if you’re just starting out on your Wicca or witchcraft journey. This is a book I’d definitely consider to be a necessary edition to your bookshelf.
May 19, 2019
“ I love you, I care for you and I will never stop speaking up for us all”
“You are precious”
THIS BOOK IS AN GOOD BOOK
I think I’ve read too many books by whyte witches who are entirely too comfortable with appropriating other cultures and being disrespectful in general, reading a witch book by a person of colour was such a blessed reprieve. On top of that she acknowledged cultures that weren’t her own and suggested other phrases that aren’t specific to certain cultures to avoid appropriation.
This book was easy to read, not that it had overly simple language but in that it was a joy to read and made me want to read more. I felt guided but also not pressured in anyway, and most importantly I felt cared for. I read the phrase “you are precious” and I felt loved because I had such genuine caring vibes from the author. I can’t even attribute this to writing style, I think it was more that I could sense a genuine want to help and love from the author.
On top of that it actually had super useful information without being authoritative. AN GOOD BOOK.
“You are precious”
THIS BOOK IS AN GOOD BOOK
I think I’ve read too many books by whyte witches who are entirely too comfortable with appropriating other cultures and being disrespectful in general, reading a witch book by a person of colour was such a blessed reprieve. On top of that she acknowledged cultures that weren’t her own and suggested other phrases that aren’t specific to certain cultures to avoid appropriation.
This book was easy to read, not that it had overly simple language but in that it was a joy to read and made me want to read more. I felt guided but also not pressured in anyway, and most importantly I felt cared for. I read the phrase “you are precious” and I felt loved because I had such genuine caring vibes from the author. I can’t even attribute this to writing style, I think it was more that I could sense a genuine want to help and love from the author.
On top of that it actually had super useful information without being authoritative. AN GOOD BOOK.
September 25, 2019
"Every Witch should meditate daily.."
Just.... no.
Also, I might just be a beginner, but why would an author include so many spells, rituals and potions that contain expensive and hard to find ingredients without every explaining the WHY of it.
What is the purpose of using rice to anoint a book?
Where do I even buy dried blue lotus?
Why would you anoint anything with menstrual blood?
How does holding a black obsidian help earth someone?
I have too many questions.
Just.... no.
Also, I might just be a beginner, but why would an author include so many spells, rituals and potions that contain expensive and hard to find ingredients without every explaining the WHY of it.
What is the purpose of using rice to anoint a book?
Where do I even buy dried blue lotus?
Why would you anoint anything with menstrual blood?
How does holding a black obsidian help earth someone?
I have too many questions.
September 12, 2024
I like a lot about this book but be aware that some of the spells are wasteful in terms of their ingredients - who wants to buy a full jar of honey only to bury it later? It's only an introduction so don't expect anything particularly comprehensive, but you're directed to research the things that take your fancy so it's a good introductory overview.
The biggest downside for me was the inclusion of the Law of Attraction but that might just be my own issue with it and how much it has begun appearing in craft books.
Still, as with any book on the craft, take what you like and leave the rest.
The biggest downside for me was the inclusion of the Law of Attraction but that might just be my own issue with it and how much it has begun appearing in craft books.
Still, as with any book on the craft, take what you like and leave the rest.
April 5, 2020
Good philosophy
I wish there was more philosophy, less spells. Solely because the ingredients required are obscure and not easily obtained. Otherwise, I quite enjoyed it. Refreshing that it wasn't new age or wiccan.
I wish there was more philosophy, less spells. Solely because the ingredients required are obscure and not easily obtained. Otherwise, I quite enjoyed it. Refreshing that it wasn't new age or wiccan.
September 23, 2019
Witchery by Juliet Diaz sounds like an incredible, but I found it to be really disappointing, actually. Diaz covers lots of very different subjects, but only just touches on them. It's 243 pages long, but it's actually quite a small book, with a lot of space around the text, so you're not really getting as much info as you think you will. It talks about the Wheel of the Year and the different Sabbats, what kinds of spells to perform on those Sabbats, and various correspondences, and it also talks about the Moon and working with it, but there's very little as regards to why. There's no real information regarding correspondences; you don't know why you're using certain herbs or crystals. Diaz tells you how to create your own spells, and tells you to think about the correspondences, but doesn't actually give any.
On the positive side, it's full of very quick and simple spells, potions, teas and rituals to get the beginner witch started - but again, there's no real information as to why all of the above involve the particular tools. It does discuss cultural appropriation and terms to steer clear of, which was good to see, and there are some elements that I think will be useful to journal about, to get to know myself a little better. But Diaz believes in a lot of things I personally don't, and she focused a lot on the witch really digging deep into themselves and who they are, which was just a bit much for me, so I did struggle to connect to a lot of what she was saying. However, she does say not to trust any book - including hers - 100%, so she's of the same mind of pick and choose what works for you as I've read in some other books.
I think Witchery might be helpful along with a more in depth book, but I don't think it's going to do very much for a new witch on it's own.
On the positive side, it's full of very quick and simple spells, potions, teas and rituals to get the beginner witch started - but again, there's no real information as to why all of the above involve the particular tools. It does discuss cultural appropriation and terms to steer clear of, which was good to see, and there are some elements that I think will be useful to journal about, to get to know myself a little better. But Diaz believes in a lot of things I personally don't, and she focused a lot on the witch really digging deep into themselves and who they are, which was just a bit much for me, so I did struggle to connect to a lot of what she was saying. However, she does say not to trust any book - including hers - 100%, so she's of the same mind of pick and choose what works for you as I've read in some other books.
I think Witchery might be helpful along with a more in depth book, but I don't think it's going to do very much for a new witch on it's own.
March 1, 2022
So, unfortunately, this book wasn't the right fit for me.
I picked it up because I deeply, deeply love the Oracle decks that Juliet Diaz has worked on (the Seasons of the Witch series, as well as The Earthcraft) but I have to admit I didn't like it as much as I wish I had.
Witchery is aimed at beginner witches - which I'm not anymore, and so a lot of the information was irrelevant to me. But mostly, I was surprised by some of the stuff I read there. I felt like it was all lacking a lot (most subjects are just skimmed through) and sometimes, pieces of advice were just not right. I was unsettled to read that I should dispose of a spell with salt at the root of a tree. Or that I should put crystals in salted water (so many crystals aren't water and/or salt safe!). The idea of working with menstrual blood also made me queasy - though this one is a personal feeling.
What I mostly reproach this book is what I reproached a lot of books I read when I started my witchcraft journey: the lack of depth. I remember giving up on so many books out of frustration of reading the same things over and over (personal tips, personal recipes, personal thoughts) and experimented witches telling me to do my own researches. And honestly, when you're just beginning, it can be so hard to find the actual books of references in the multitude. Reading over and over again that you should just study when no one is giving you the material to actually study was so annoying. I felt like I was running in a circle and never getting anywhere. And reading this book reminded me of just that. We get long lists of spells with only rarely some basic explanation on why this herb or that crystal should be used (which could actually help find replacements when the ingredient is rare or very specific). It often felt like, having spent her life practicing, the author couldn't relate to someone entirely new to the craft who knows nothing... which still is the aimed public of the book.
So... I don't know. I'm more experimented now. I knew to pick what I need and leave the rest (a note that finally comes at the end of 'Witchery').
I also didn't connect with the author's voice until the very end of the book.
I still enjoyed the part about the Ancestors - that was very interesting to me and a subject I'm trying to learn more about but what I got from 'Witchery' was superficial (which feels quite saddening because I can tell that Juliet Diaz knows so much I just wish I could have learned more from her), and I found a couple of spells that I could get inspiration from, but that's basically it.
A 'sadly, no' from me.
I picked it up because I deeply, deeply love the Oracle decks that Juliet Diaz has worked on (the Seasons of the Witch series, as well as The Earthcraft) but I have to admit I didn't like it as much as I wish I had.
Witchery is aimed at beginner witches - which I'm not anymore, and so a lot of the information was irrelevant to me. But mostly, I was surprised by some of the stuff I read there. I felt like it was all lacking a lot (most subjects are just skimmed through) and sometimes, pieces of advice were just not right. I was unsettled to read that I should dispose of a spell with salt at the root of a tree. Or that I should put crystals in salted water (so many crystals aren't water and/or salt safe!). The idea of working with menstrual blood also made me queasy - though this one is a personal feeling.
What I mostly reproach this book is what I reproached a lot of books I read when I started my witchcraft journey: the lack of depth. I remember giving up on so many books out of frustration of reading the same things over and over (personal tips, personal recipes, personal thoughts) and experimented witches telling me to do my own researches. And honestly, when you're just beginning, it can be so hard to find the actual books of references in the multitude. Reading over and over again that you should just study when no one is giving you the material to actually study was so annoying. I felt like I was running in a circle and never getting anywhere. And reading this book reminded me of just that. We get long lists of spells with only rarely some basic explanation on why this herb or that crystal should be used (which could actually help find replacements when the ingredient is rare or very specific). It often felt like, having spent her life practicing, the author couldn't relate to someone entirely new to the craft who knows nothing... which still is the aimed public of the book.
So... I don't know. I'm more experimented now. I knew to pick what I need and leave the rest (a note that finally comes at the end of 'Witchery').
I also didn't connect with the author's voice until the very end of the book.
I still enjoyed the part about the Ancestors - that was very interesting to me and a subject I'm trying to learn more about but what I got from 'Witchery' was superficial (which feels quite saddening because I can tell that Juliet Diaz knows so much I just wish I could have learned more from her), and I found a couple of spells that I could get inspiration from, but that's basically it.
A 'sadly, no' from me.
March 21, 2020
Ich habe "Witchery: Entdecke die Hexe in dir" von Juliet Diaz an nur einem Nachmittag durchgelesen.
Sowohl das wunderschöne Cover, als auch der Klappentext haben mich so neugierig auf das Buch gemacht, dass ich es einfach sofort lesen musste, als es bei mir eintraff. Leider wusste ich schon nach nur knapp 30 Seiten, dass das Buch letztendlich nicht das ist, was ich mir erhofft hatte und mir somit auch nicht den Einstieg geliefert hat, den ich mir gewünscht hätte.
Kommen mir zuerst zu den Dingen, die mir gefallen haben: Ich mag sowohl das Cover, als auch die Gestaltung und den Aufbau des Buches sehr. Es ist mit viel Liebe gestaltet worden und dazu noch sehr übrsichtlich aufgebaut, was es einem erleichtert bestimmte Teile im Buch schnell wieder zu finden. Positiv zu vermerken ist, dass es viele sehr schnelle und vor allem einfache Zaubersprüche, Tränke, Tees und Rituale gibt, mit denen man als Anfänger beginnen kann - aber es gibt keine wirklichen Informationen darüber, warum all das in den bestimmten Kombinationen genutzt wird und wozu jedes "Werkzeug" benutzt werden kann.
Letztendlich hat mir das Buch jedoch einfach nicht zugesagt. Juliet Diaz spricht sehr viele verschiedene Themen an, umreißt diese aber nur sehr kurz und beschreibt dadurch eher grob worum es geht, sodass nicht wirklich viele tiefgehendere Informationen im Buch entalten sind.
Mir fehlte grundsätzlich immer die fragen nach dem Warum. Es ist zu oberflächlich geschrieben, mit vielen Ideen, Ansätzen und Herangehensweisen aber besonder was die Rituale, Kräuter, Kristalle u.a. angeht, hätte ich mir viel mehr Tiefgang und fundiertes Wissen gewünscht.
Fazit: Ich denke das "Witchery - Entdecke die Hexe in dir" eine nette kurzweilige Lektüre ist um die ganze Thematik rund um Magie erstmal grob einzuordnen. Jedoch ist es kein wirklich ausführliches Buch um in die Thematik einzusteigen.
* Ich habe das Buch als Rezensionsexemplar von Randohouse zur Verfügung gestellt bekommen.
Sowohl das wunderschöne Cover, als auch der Klappentext haben mich so neugierig auf das Buch gemacht, dass ich es einfach sofort lesen musste, als es bei mir eintraff. Leider wusste ich schon nach nur knapp 30 Seiten, dass das Buch letztendlich nicht das ist, was ich mir erhofft hatte und mir somit auch nicht den Einstieg geliefert hat, den ich mir gewünscht hätte.
Kommen mir zuerst zu den Dingen, die mir gefallen haben: Ich mag sowohl das Cover, als auch die Gestaltung und den Aufbau des Buches sehr. Es ist mit viel Liebe gestaltet worden und dazu noch sehr übrsichtlich aufgebaut, was es einem erleichtert bestimmte Teile im Buch schnell wieder zu finden. Positiv zu vermerken ist, dass es viele sehr schnelle und vor allem einfache Zaubersprüche, Tränke, Tees und Rituale gibt, mit denen man als Anfänger beginnen kann - aber es gibt keine wirklichen Informationen darüber, warum all das in den bestimmten Kombinationen genutzt wird und wozu jedes "Werkzeug" benutzt werden kann.
Letztendlich hat mir das Buch jedoch einfach nicht zugesagt. Juliet Diaz spricht sehr viele verschiedene Themen an, umreißt diese aber nur sehr kurz und beschreibt dadurch eher grob worum es geht, sodass nicht wirklich viele tiefgehendere Informationen im Buch entalten sind.
Mir fehlte grundsätzlich immer die fragen nach dem Warum. Es ist zu oberflächlich geschrieben, mit vielen Ideen, Ansätzen und Herangehensweisen aber besonder was die Rituale, Kräuter, Kristalle u.a. angeht, hätte ich mir viel mehr Tiefgang und fundiertes Wissen gewünscht.
Fazit: Ich denke das "Witchery - Entdecke die Hexe in dir" eine nette kurzweilige Lektüre ist um die ganze Thematik rund um Magie erstmal grob einzuordnen. Jedoch ist es kein wirklich ausführliches Buch um in die Thematik einzusteigen.
* Ich habe das Buch als Rezensionsexemplar von Randohouse zur Verfügung gestellt bekommen.
December 11, 2022
I have been thinking about my response to this book and Juliet Diaz's other book Plant Witchery....all year. I read this early 2022 and it is now December 2022 and my rating has gone from 4, to 3, to 1 over the course of my contemplation and further education into witchcraft.
There are plenty of other wonderful books to start on the path of witchcraft that are not this book. Juliet Diaz claims sensitivity to practices specific to different cultures while simultaneously disrespecting them. Diaz also claims "anybody can practice witchcraft!!! This book isn't just for women!!!!" then proceeds to project a practice accessible to only people capable of producing period blood (literally; a great many of the spells offered use period blood as an ingredient).
Also the intense variety of ingredients and tools, some of which are incredibly costly......this really isn't geared for beginners at all. Why that color candle? My that ingredient? Why that crystal? I understand Plant Witchery gets into some of specifics of herbs but it doesn't even do a good job. More on that in a review for that book.....
I just...the deep spirituality and respect and love for the craft did not feel present in this book the same way it does in books like The Green Witch by Ann Murphy Hisock or Oils Incense & Brews by Scott Cunnigham (old school and outdated but still helpful) or even Kitchen Table Magic by Melissa Cynova (whose approach to writing is high energy and humorous).
I just don't recommend this. Her definitions and explanations of true self care are incredible but that is one of the only parts I truly like. A lot of the information is directionless, like learning a language by using only popular phrases instead of learning the necessary grammar rules that form some of the fundamental building blocks of the language.
There are plenty of other wonderful books to start on the path of witchcraft that are not this book. Juliet Diaz claims sensitivity to practices specific to different cultures while simultaneously disrespecting them. Diaz also claims "anybody can practice witchcraft!!! This book isn't just for women!!!!" then proceeds to project a practice accessible to only people capable of producing period blood (literally; a great many of the spells offered use period blood as an ingredient).
Also the intense variety of ingredients and tools, some of which are incredibly costly......this really isn't geared for beginners at all. Why that color candle? My that ingredient? Why that crystal? I understand Plant Witchery gets into some of specifics of herbs but it doesn't even do a good job. More on that in a review for that book.....
I just...the deep spirituality and respect and love for the craft did not feel present in this book the same way it does in books like The Green Witch by Ann Murphy Hisock or Oils Incense & Brews by Scott Cunnigham (old school and outdated but still helpful) or even Kitchen Table Magic by Melissa Cynova (whose approach to writing is high energy and humorous).
I just don't recommend this. Her definitions and explanations of true self care are incredible but that is one of the only parts I truly like. A lot of the information is directionless, like learning a language by using only popular phrases instead of learning the necessary grammar rules that form some of the fundamental building blocks of the language.
December 26, 2025
★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆
2.5 out of 5 stars
I really love Juliet Diaz and I can feel the love she poured into this book but just like her "Plant Witchery" book I do not agree with everything she has written. Even though this book is for beginners, there is some caution that needs to be outlined in the book. Teaching blood magick before protection is really really scary, and quite frankly dangerous. She also taught about honey jars, which to my knowledge is closed, and there should be at least a preface about it on the spell. Putting a beginner who doesn't know better into a potentially dangerous situation just makes me sad. I know protection spells where done in the book, but none of the spells have correspondences or why we should be doing what we are doing. If I was still a beginner, this would have overwhelmed me a lot and I probably would've been unable to do anything. Things just seem to be very wishy-washy, and there isn't enough time dedicated to each subject. There is a lot more I can say but I honestly just don't want to reiterate myself from my "Plant Witchery" review.
For all the bad I always find there is a few things I can learn from a book, or at least enjoy, and I did find that! I really loved that in the end of the book she talked about cultural appropriation, and that white sage is endangered. I feel its very important to include information like this but it probably would've been better at the beginning. I also loved the segment of meditation, I am a firm believer in daily meditation and I loved how Juliet Diaz spoke about it.
All in all, its an ok book, please just do your research on every spell your casting. Take what resonates, leave what doesn't.
2.5 out of 5 stars
I really love Juliet Diaz and I can feel the love she poured into this book but just like her "Plant Witchery" book I do not agree with everything she has written. Even though this book is for beginners, there is some caution that needs to be outlined in the book. Teaching blood magick before protection is really really scary, and quite frankly dangerous. She also taught about honey jars, which to my knowledge is closed, and there should be at least a preface about it on the spell. Putting a beginner who doesn't know better into a potentially dangerous situation just makes me sad. I know protection spells where done in the book, but none of the spells have correspondences or why we should be doing what we are doing. If I was still a beginner, this would have overwhelmed me a lot and I probably would've been unable to do anything. Things just seem to be very wishy-washy, and there isn't enough time dedicated to each subject. There is a lot more I can say but I honestly just don't want to reiterate myself from my "Plant Witchery" review.
For all the bad I always find there is a few things I can learn from a book, or at least enjoy, and I did find that! I really loved that in the end of the book she talked about cultural appropriation, and that white sage is endangered. I feel its very important to include information like this but it probably would've been better at the beginning. I also loved the segment of meditation, I am a firm believer in daily meditation and I loved how Juliet Diaz spoke about it.
All in all, its an ok book, please just do your research on every spell your casting. Take what resonates, leave what doesn't.
November 3, 2023
Ormai ho capito che qualsiasi manuale di stregoneria scritto negli ultimi anni è solo una copertura per il manifesto femminista, ma Wichery in realtà mi ha colpito molto rispetto a quelli che ho già letto.
In primo luogo è scritto in modo molto diverso. È quasi una lettera al lettore e ho gradito l’approccio e lo stile con cui l’autrice ha scelto di narrare le sue esperienze e dare consigli a chi si avvicina a questo mondo per la prima volta. È quasi come un dialogo amichevole davanti a una tazza di tè caldo.
Inoltre non risulta pretenziosa o “aggressiva” nelle sue credenze e sebbene la scelta degli argomenti esposti sia basilare, riesce comunque a essere varia e a svolgere il loro scopo.
Certo, alcuni punti mi hanno lasciato perplessa e la scelta degli ingredienti per gli incantesimi è alquanto costosa, ma questo è più un problema per chi vuole praticare davvero.
Insomma, la stregoneria non è certo cheap.
Per il resto, è ideale se volete informarvi sull’argomento o se volete un manuale che non confini troppo con la politica.
In primo luogo è scritto in modo molto diverso. È quasi una lettera al lettore e ho gradito l’approccio e lo stile con cui l’autrice ha scelto di narrare le sue esperienze e dare consigli a chi si avvicina a questo mondo per la prima volta. È quasi come un dialogo amichevole davanti a una tazza di tè caldo.
Inoltre non risulta pretenziosa o “aggressiva” nelle sue credenze e sebbene la scelta degli argomenti esposti sia basilare, riesce comunque a essere varia e a svolgere il loro scopo.
Certo, alcuni punti mi hanno lasciato perplessa e la scelta degli ingredienti per gli incantesimi è alquanto costosa, ma questo è più un problema per chi vuole praticare davvero.
Insomma, la stregoneria non è certo cheap.
Per il resto, è ideale se volete informarvi sull’argomento o se volete un manuale che non confini troppo con la politica.
November 24, 2025
Introductieboek met een sterke wijsgering; recepten werden me te exotisch.
April 27, 2019
In my quest to develop my understanding of witchcraft and different types of magic, I found myself drawn into the work of Juliet Diaz via her appearance on the witch wave; reading this book seemed like the natural next step to that progression. As I opened the book, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect, but I soon found out: it's literally exactly what it says it is.
I've been studying witchcraft for just over three years, but I haven't practiced in any way other than the occasional sigil. This book gave me the nudge I needed to get into the active practice of witchcraft, even if I didn't learn much new from it.
Diaz begins her book with an introduction, as most books on witchcraft, then with a ritual--this was new. The ritual in question was a simple one, requiring only the ingredients a practitioner may find in their kitchen (and perhaps some incense,) but it is marked as essential for activating the reader's connection with the knowledge in the book. I found this an incredibly good idea: so much of the time we find ourselves researching and researching and researching, but never actually doing. Perhaps it is the fear that we'll do something wrong, or simply the fact that it's something that we haven't done before; this was a great way to get over that first hurdle. After performing that ritual, I have found myself increasingly able and willing to do actual spells and to really engage with magic in a way that I haven't before.
This was the first of a series of strengths in the work that I found really supported young witches just coming into their practices. The book is well-written and enthusiastic, not getting bogged down in overly-complicated explanations or terminology, and does a good job of explaining the basic concepts behind witchcraft well, as well as suggesting basic exercises to get to grips with them in a practical way. I believe it was Kelly Ann-Maddox who spoke about the risks of becoming armchair-occultists; this book seems like the right foot to get off on to avoid that.
I also found, despite being familiar with most of the material presented, the rituals and spells offered to be extremely useful. Instead of declaring that there is only one spell for each intent, and listing all the exotic ingredients you need for it, Diaz offers a selection of different spells and rituals, all to the same end--some are more complex and require specific crystals and herbs, but others are simple, requiring only yourself and something to cleanse with. This makes the craft accessible to a new generation of witches in a way that many books previously haven't.
However, every book has its flaws, and Witchery is no exception. I have two main issues with the book.
One: I feel as if Diaz could've gone more into detail explaining the need for each component in the rituals and spells she offers. She does this with the tools for cleansing, however, it doesn't come up again. I had to ask myself if it would be okay to leave out a component to the earlier spell, something which could've been avoided had its significance been briefly summarised in the text. Of course, I understand why this was not done: it would require significantly more explanation than is perhaps appropriate in a book for beginners, though it still would've been majorly appreciated.
Two: Disclaimers. There is a small print legal disclaimer in the front of the book, but it would've been nice to have the standard 'herbal magic should not be substituted for regular medical care.' While I'd hope that it would be common sense for most people, I still worry.
Since most of my issues are "I'd love to hear more about why each of these things helps," I think what I'm really getting at is a desire for Diaz to write another book for higher level practitioners that really gets into the details of the practice. Of course, Diaz also has provided several sources of further exploration, so I'd assume it possible to find explanations there, though I shall miss her positive and welcoming writing style.
Overall, would definitely recommend for anyone new to the craft, but not as a definitive resource.
I've been studying witchcraft for just over three years, but I haven't practiced in any way other than the occasional sigil. This book gave me the nudge I needed to get into the active practice of witchcraft, even if I didn't learn much new from it.
Diaz begins her book with an introduction, as most books on witchcraft, then with a ritual--this was new. The ritual in question was a simple one, requiring only the ingredients a practitioner may find in their kitchen (and perhaps some incense,) but it is marked as essential for activating the reader's connection with the knowledge in the book. I found this an incredibly good idea: so much of the time we find ourselves researching and researching and researching, but never actually doing. Perhaps it is the fear that we'll do something wrong, or simply the fact that it's something that we haven't done before; this was a great way to get over that first hurdle. After performing that ritual, I have found myself increasingly able and willing to do actual spells and to really engage with magic in a way that I haven't before.
This was the first of a series of strengths in the work that I found really supported young witches just coming into their practices. The book is well-written and enthusiastic, not getting bogged down in overly-complicated explanations or terminology, and does a good job of explaining the basic concepts behind witchcraft well, as well as suggesting basic exercises to get to grips with them in a practical way. I believe it was Kelly Ann-Maddox who spoke about the risks of becoming armchair-occultists; this book seems like the right foot to get off on to avoid that.
I also found, despite being familiar with most of the material presented, the rituals and spells offered to be extremely useful. Instead of declaring that there is only one spell for each intent, and listing all the exotic ingredients you need for it, Diaz offers a selection of different spells and rituals, all to the same end--some are more complex and require specific crystals and herbs, but others are simple, requiring only yourself and something to cleanse with. This makes the craft accessible to a new generation of witches in a way that many books previously haven't.
However, every book has its flaws, and Witchery is no exception. I have two main issues with the book.
One: I feel as if Diaz could've gone more into detail explaining the need for each component in the rituals and spells she offers. She does this with the tools for cleansing, however, it doesn't come up again. I had to ask myself if it would be okay to leave out a component to the earlier spell, something which could've been avoided had its significance been briefly summarised in the text. Of course, I understand why this was not done: it would require significantly more explanation than is perhaps appropriate in a book for beginners, though it still would've been majorly appreciated.
Two: Disclaimers. There is a small print legal disclaimer in the front of the book, but it would've been nice to have the standard 'herbal magic should not be substituted for regular medical care.' While I'd hope that it would be common sense for most people, I still worry.
Since most of my issues are "I'd love to hear more about why each of these things helps," I think what I'm really getting at is a desire for Diaz to write another book for higher level practitioners that really gets into the details of the practice. Of course, Diaz also has provided several sources of further exploration, so I'd assume it possible to find explanations there, though I shall miss her positive and welcoming writing style.
Overall, would definitely recommend for anyone new to the craft, but not as a definitive resource.
October 16, 2021
Witchery reads more like a recipe book than a witchcraft guide. This is because there is little to no mention of herbal and crystal correspondences; the author’s own spells are introduced right at the beginning and one is left to wonder about what each ingredient is for, and whether a particular action in a ritual has a universal, deeper meaning or it’s just a personal preference.
I think this book fails to give the proper tools and basic knowledge to start practising by yourself. It does make some good points, but for being so focused on spells, rituals and finding your own path, I find the lack of correspondences and basic concepts quite disappointing.
I think this book fails to give the proper tools and basic knowledge to start practising by yourself. It does make some good points, but for being so focused on spells, rituals and finding your own path, I find the lack of correspondences and basic concepts quite disappointing.
June 23, 2021
I expected more, maybe reasons about why certain herbs should be used, what other options do you have, blah blah. Also a lot of the herbs were so difficult to find, I would read some names and pass the page because where I live it is impossible to find.
April 15, 2022
Author's take on how she incorporated herbs/spells into her life as part of her heritage. I feel like it should have been titled something else such as Recipes & Rootwork. Since I felt like I was looking for something else I give 3 stars for missing the mark but still a good look at spells, positive thoughts and a bio of the author.
September 18, 2020
I'm not entirely sure--there's a lot here and an incredible amount of specificity. Can be used easily as a reference volume. Not quite what I was expecting, but useful. Looking forward to her upcoming book
January 29, 2021
Es interesante, sin embargo los temas suelen ser repetitivos. Algo que me hubiera gustado es que la autora agregara más información en lo que respecta a los hechizos y los días festivos, como por ejemplo ¿Por qué se festeja en ese día? ¿Por qué se usa tales ingredientes?, etc.
January 6, 2020
lovely, reaffirming, sweet 💕
July 13, 2024
Muito completo para quem está começando agora e quer um ssólido começo, mas acho que é melhor aproveitado para quem já tem algum conhecimento da bruxaria.
March 1, 2023
I found this book pleasant and informative. I absolutely loved the self care elements within.
Many of the grounding techniques used formed part of my CBT course a couple of years ago, so it was nice to have that reaffirmed. It also shows how widely these techniques can be used and the value of mastering them. The letters to yourself or those that have hurt you is also a useful tool I have seen in therapy sessions.
Many of the grounding techniques used formed part of my CBT course a couple of years ago, so it was nice to have that reaffirmed. It also shows how widely these techniques can be used and the value of mastering them. The letters to yourself or those that have hurt you is also a useful tool I have seen in therapy sessions.
December 12, 2020
The book cover looks cool, but I felt like it was a waste of time, on my part, reading it. What annoys me is how the author keeps talking about herself majority of the time. She should’ve made this her biography instead of a witchcraft book claiming to help other witches who are just starting out. I also personally don’t like the tone of her writing. If you are very new, haven’t read any stuff about witchcraft, I think this is an okay introduction? But there are other good beginner books out there too.
September 28, 2022
This is a really great witchcraft book for beginners or those just getting into the craft. The basics are well covered, there are personal stories from the author you may relate to, and even a few simple spells you might want to try for your first. Definitely a good reference book to have on hand for the beginner witch's library after you've read it all the way through.
December 28, 2019
A wonderful read!
April 27, 2021
Loved it! I've committed to the meditation practices, so helpful!
October 31, 2023
While I don’t think it was intentional, this book focused on Cis-female practitioners and didn’t discuss any other gender identity. This book has lots of great info I wanted it to be more inclusive.
March 8, 2022
I read this book cause I was looking for a modern beginners book for (young) witches, as I'm often asked for a recommandation. The books that I read when I started my path 25 years ago are nice, but a little bit outdated. I love the oracle decks co-created by Juliet Diaz, so I thought I would give her book a chance, too.
Witchery is a great book for beginners of all ages that are looking for a book with rituals, spells and recipes. You get all information you need to get started right away. The incredience needed is easy to get and affordable.
What I really like is,
that the rituals, spells and recipes are well thought out, practical and useable,
that the witchcraft discribed in this book is not wiccan, or attached to any religious beliefs at all
and that Juliet Diaz is very encouraging and commited to (self-)empowerment.
What I don't like is,
that the book sounds a little dogmatic here and there
All in all, a good and modern beginners book for (young) witches who want a non religious book about witchcraft with precise instructions so that they can start practicing right away. I would recommand reading it together with "Rebel Witch" by Kelly-Ann Maddox.
Witchery is a great book for beginners of all ages that are looking for a book with rituals, spells and recipes. You get all information you need to get started right away. The incredience needed is easy to get and affordable.
What I really like is,
that the rituals, spells and recipes are well thought out, practical and useable,
that the witchcraft discribed in this book is not wiccan, or attached to any religious beliefs at all
and that Juliet Diaz is very encouraging and commited to (self-)empowerment.
What I don't like is,
that the book sounds a little dogmatic here and there
All in all, a good and modern beginners book for (young) witches who want a non religious book about witchcraft with precise instructions so that they can start practicing right away. I would recommand reading it together with "Rebel Witch" by Kelly-Ann Maddox.
March 24, 2019
Juliet offers one of the most beautiful books I have ever read. I feel like this book has become a friend and companion. This book is an amazing entry into Witchery or a fantastic addition to even the most experienced witch. However, it is SO much more than witchcraft, this book is a guide to finding and living to your highest self for both witches and anyone else no matter how you identify or what you believe. I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in self-discovery and healing themselves spiritually.
What a beautiful contribution she has given the world. I cannot wait for more.
What a beautiful contribution she has given the world. I cannot wait for more.
January 19, 2022
This is a really cool little guide to starting with Witchcraft! I’ve always been curious about witches and drawn to them throughout my life, but there is so much info out there that it’s impossible to know where to start. This book brings a lot of ideas and spells and intentions together, and it was interesting to see Diaz’s perspective on it all. I love the idea of connecting more intensely with myself and with nature; learning about the seasons of the witch and the moon phases was fascinating. I will revisit this one for the individual spells, crystals, etc. when I need to!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 327 reviews