Mythology for a Magical Life: Stories, Rituals & Reflections to Inspire Your Craft

by Ember Grant

Invigorate Your Craft with Profound Myths & Accompanying Activities

Explore the creative depths of myths, fairy tales, and folklore, where you'll gain extraordinary insights about both the world and yourself. Featuring more than a dozen amazing tales and their related spells, meditations, and affirmations, Mythology for a Magical Life shows you how to elevate your practice in ways you never imagined. These stories come from cultures all over the globe, offering you a deep connection to the human experience.

Popular author Ember Grant shares an impressive collection of myths, themes, and hands-on activities that enhance your skills and add new energy to your magic. Discover what the story of Cupid and Psyche can teach you about the journey of your soul. Learn how trickster folklore can inspire you to seize new opportunities in your life. Embrace your primal self with the Maid-of-the-Wave's tale. This compulsively readable book enriches your craft through the power of storytelling.

Genres: Witchcraft, Nonfiction, Spirituality, Paganism, Magic, Mythology

240 pages, Paperback

Published February 8, 2021

Reviews

[Ophelia Feyre · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: Mythology for a Magical Life - Stories, Rituals and Reflections to Inspire Your Craft by Ember Grant.
Genre: Religion and Spirituality.
Publisher: Llewellyn Publications
Release Date: 8th February, 2021

I REALLY enjoyed this book. It's been hard to get my reading motivation going this year and this book was perfect; a lovely blend of short stories (myths) and a ritual guide. I picked it up in the evenings and the myths were like bed-time stories. I found them comforting to read and loved how there was some familiarity in the stories, yet it told new tales I hadn't heard before.

Mythology for a Magical Life features twelve myths, from various traditions and cultures, along with spells, meditations, affirmations and activities to inspire your practice. Twelve myths makes it ideal to dip in and out of each month of the year.

I didn't realise just how easy mythology fit with the practice of Witchcraft. I frequently incorporate Goddess work (predominantly from Greek and Roman myths) into my Craft, but there can be so much more to it than working with the deities. There are many other things we can take away from these stories to develop our practice and improve ourselves. It has opened up a whole new world of possibilities for me.

I really want to mention my favourite chapter and myth that Grant covers. Chapter four explores, 'The Magic of Wildness' and looks at myths related to what she calls 'Skin Changers'. I have heard some of these stories before, or variations of them, and there was something about them that just stuck with me.

If you are not sure, the myths about 'skin changers' relate to a woman who can change from an animal (Grant looks at the myth of a mermaid and a swan) to human by shedding her animal 'skin' and they, 'typically centre on the female character being 'caught' while she is out of her animal form.' Grant explores various meanings and themes surrounding these myths, however the one that stood out to me was of the female losing her 'wildness' and becoming 'domesticated' - essentially losing her identity. The stories are somehow awful and beautiful at the same time.

As I loved what Grant said about these Myths in-particular, the activities alongside were the ones I was most eager to explore. Talking you through: identity affirmations, working with animal guides, animal encounters and some lovely journal prompts, Grant encourages us to explore our own wildness.

Just this chapter alone has got me wanting to delve deeper into this 'wild woman' archetype. I'm talking all the fiction and non-fiction I can get! I plan on starting with, 'Women Who Run With the Wolves' by Clarissa Pinkola Estes, Ph.D. It's a book I've been wanting to read for a while and explores more myths and stories related to this archetype. If you have any other suggestions then please do let me know!

Obviously, this is just one chapter that really stood out to me, but there are so many more myths and rituals to 'inspire your Craft' that I'm sure there will be one that appeals to you!

I also briefly want to mention chapter ten, 'The Magic of the Shadow' which is about acknowledging our shadow self. This is an aspect of Witchcraft I am still exploring. Even though it can be difficult, the benefits of accepting our 'darker' side are great. If you are not familiar with shadow work then I definitely recommend looking in to it. This book is a good place to start, but like I said, just has this one chapter on the topic. Again the main reason this chapter stood out to me, as well as the shadow-work, was the feminist undertones. The myth that Grant looks at is from the Inuit people, however, there are so many myths out there that also look at the Underworld and themes of the shadow-self. For me, the Hades and Persephone story is one that I have always felt a connection to and love to work with.

This idea of using other myths; ones that Grant doesn't necessarily cover in her book, is definitely encouraged. For example in the following chapter Grant does cover the Hades myth when dealing with death and grief. She features a lovely poem in ode to Hades, yet encourages you to be creative by exploring other cultural myths in relation to the afterlife; focusing specifically on ones that you feel a personal connection with.

Grant says her book is good for those who feel like they are becoming distanced from their Craft and need a way back in. I agree it's a nice way to reconnect with the magic. However I consider myself to be, currently, right in the middle of my spiritual journey and this book has opened up a whole host of new possibilities for me to explore. For me, it's a must read. I expect to come back to the different myths throughout the year.

I really could talk about this book forever. It's such a unique and interesting way to develop and explore your Craft. I definitely want a physical copy for my witchy bookshelf!

[Sheena ☆ Book Sheenanigans · Rating 2 out of 5]

Mmm… I gave this a go and it just wasn’t my cup of tea. Too textbook and wordy for my taste. I didn’t get much from this but that’s not to say others may not be able to benefit from it. Despite my inability to connect with the author’s writing—it’s a decent collection of myths combined with interpretations, spells, and activities for the modern day witch.

[Books, Brews & Booze · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have gratitude and respect for this book. I think I’m one of the target audience readers for it -- someone who stepped away from magical practices, has been interested in getting back into it again, but needing something different than before. I don’t think that’s the only type of person who will benefit from reading it though. Those interested in myths, manifestation, practices of gratitude, etc. will benefit from this read.

I’m appreciative of “Mythology for a Magical Life” because it discusses myths that I haven’t heard of before. It’s interesting to read myths from different areas of the world and cultures. I’m also appreciative because the magical practices mentioned are eclectic and accessible.

The author notes that the book is geared toward experienced magical practitioners who are seeking to add new energy to their practice. It does help to have a basic knowledge, but I would not call myself “experienced” and I was able to understand all the content.

I also love that there is flexibility in the rituals. The author is quick to note that each person has an individual practice and it’s important to stay true to you. It’s nice to know that there isn’t just one way to practice gratitude, do a manifestation ritual, etc.

My favorite parts of the book were the chants the author created and the way the sections were organized. The end of each chapter contained the sources mentioned in the chapter, which I really love. Much better than having them all at the end of the book.

The only thing I didn’t love was the placement of the chapter on death. It made sense to place it where it was, organizationally speaking, but I would have preferred it closer to the middle of the book. This is solely a nitpicky personal preference though.

Thank you, Netgalley, for the opportunity to read the ebook. This is a book I would purchase because it makes a great resource to refer back to, and I appreciate the examples of rituals and chants.

[Michael Ferguson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Highly insightful and enjoyable.

When I picked the book up I was looking for sources on mythology and I found the deconstruction and analysis of each myth in this book incredibly useful not just for my own writing but also for use in my daily life.

I think that any lover of myths would enjoy this book but it also provides a lot of exercises and practices that can assist with leading a happier and more fulfilled life. I also particularly enjoyed the journaling and reflective exercise tips given for each myth.

It was also refreshing to read some myths that were not Greek or Norse but from all over the world.

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

The main reason I picked up this book was because of the stunning cover and my love of mythology in general. I was surprised how comprehensive each chapter was. Grant suggests going through the book one chapter a month to take you through the year, and I can see how that would be beneficial as a practitioner. You would really sink your teeth into the lessons each myth can provide. Yet I read it cover to cover over a week, and it was just as enjoyable. I particularly liked the diversity within the myths; I was scared it would all be from the well known European texts, but Grant also cites South African, Inuit, Mayan, Aztec, Japanese, and Mesopotamian myths. She often also goes brings up other myths during the breakdown section of the chapter, exposing the reader to more variety. It felt a lot like Women Who Run With the Wolves, but where with that book I never really got on with because of the over explanations and an almost academic prose; Mythology for A Magical Life is more relaxed and feels more for the folk tradition practitioners. The author opens up throughout and feels like an honest guide in these lessons. The rituals she provides are doable at any level and often there is room for customization. All around this was a great read!

[Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has a specific audience: people who enjoy literature and witchcraft. I fill that niche and I enjoyed it very much. It's marketed for experienced witches wanting to revitalize their path, but I think it's a good resource for anyone anywhere in their journey. It has 12 chapters with various myths from around the world, their themes, and then spells, rituals, affirmations, and journal prompts that are related to the overall story. It's organized very well. You can read one chapter for each month of the year or just read it in one go. The myths are from many different cultures, which was refreshing since so many other books focus on western myths. It can read a bit textbook at times, but overall it flows well. My absolute favorite parts were the journal prompts and affirmations, Grant could make a killing selling a witch journal. I already recommended this to some people and I will continue to do so; if you're on the fence, just read it.

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.

[Tiffany H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Mythology for a Magical Life - Stories, Rituals and Reflections to Inspire Your Craft

Author: Ember Grant

Publisher: Llewellyn Publications

Copyright: 2021

Rating: 5/5


Mythology for a Magical Life is an amazing book I recently purchased by author Ember Grant. Grant is an English professor whose knowledge of literature shines through her writing. She weaves stories from different parts of the world into a cohesive and fascinating book. I appreciated that many of the myths were new to me and were from different cultures than mainstream America tends to focus on.


I don't ascribe to any religion or believe in any deities, but I enjoy learning about different archetypes and how the cultures shaped them. The author explains each tale and introduces themes and how they correlate with the reader's daily life. There is a lot of practical advice, such as cleaning your craft space or journaling prompts. Then there are great spells to charge magical ink or connect with the earth.


For every chapter, there was something unique to that season, which is yet another thing I love about this book. While I read the book in a short time (I just couldn't put it down), Ember Grant advises the reader to read one chapter per month. With 12 chapters, the author arranged Mythology for a Magical Life to be read according to the seasons and the topics to be useful in that moment. I enjoyed this book so much that I plan on starting the book again in January and following along next year every month to get the full experience.


Most books on the craft are written for the beginner witch demographic, with much of the information being basic or easily accessed via a quick Google search. This is one of only two books that I feel I walked away from with more knowledge than I started out with. Mythology for a Magical Life is unique because the journal prompts and activities are written to help a witch get out of a slump or further their magical knowledge. I rarely suggest a book to an intermediate or advanced practitioner, but Mythology for a Magical Life will be a frequently gifted book to my friends. I am so surprised by it that I daresay it may be my Book of 2023.

[Ioana · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very nice book! And such a fantastic cover!

This book is written specifically for people who are looking for some inspiration for their Craft, who maybe feel a little stuck in their spiritual journey and practice. The author's solution? Coming back to myths and taking wisdom and meaning out of them and insert it into one's practice.

What I loved about this book is the selection of stories and the in depth research. There are myths I have not read before, and even Inanna's story, which I knew about, had some new details I found fascinating. I loved how the author gave sometimes more than one meaning for a specific situation, because a lot of them felt pretty complex. In the same line, I appreciate greatly how the author spoke from a very "real" place. At times it feels ideas about Goddesses or female characters or myths are a little sugarcoated but in this book the stories are as they've perpetuated, in their raw, sometimes violent, heartbreaking form. The aspects of myths are facts of real life, of real struggles and I appreciated finding this kind of deeper understanding in this book.

My only regret is that the chapter on laughter was the one with the smallest information provided , or at least this is how I perceived it among so many heavy themes.

I liked a lot the many prompts and ideas that were offered after each myth: rituals, spells, practices, creative projects and questions for journaling. I would probably only use the journaling ideas but it's great there are a lot of offerings for each reader to choose her or his favorite.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Kathy Shimpock · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you thought this was a book for Wiccans and Druids, you’d be right, but it’s much more than that. Anyone who seeks to use positive affirmation, visualization, and intention to manifest change, would also find guidance here as would anyone who uses mythology and folktale imagery in ceremony. The fact that this book does all this, and more is a pleasant surprise. Each chapter uses a story from mythology and folklore as the focus of a year-long journey of self-reflection. Stories speak to us on a soul level as does magic, Grant writes. A commentary of the themes addressed in these stories comes next, along with various activities (spells, rituals, affirmations, journal prompts, meditations, and visualizations). Grant shows great reverence for these stories contextualizing her version and providing some history to those she selects. She also includes bibliographic references which allows the reader to study further. Grant shows that both mythology and folktales can provide both the inspiration and the wisdom so often needed in life today.

[Hollie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is perhaps one of the most practically written new age spirituality books that I have had the pleasure to read. The author, Ember Grant, provides thoughtful and straightforward introductions to perhaps complex or obscure concepts and themes for a novice connoisseur of nature worship/spirituality, folklore, and/or mythology. The writing is fluid, pleasant, easy to read, and the content is reflective and inspiring. I would highly recommend this for those that find healing in nature, inspiration in folklore, beginning or advanced magical practitioners, or those simply desiring to intentionally imbue their life with more wonder and appreciation for the magic of life. I have always had a fascination with cultural anthropology and folklore, so I greatly enjoyed reading the interpretations of the myths that were presented in this book.

I had the pleasure of reading an ARC, this title will be released on Feb 8th, 2021. All opinions expressed above are my own.

[Lazarone · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're feeling a little confused, stuck or low-spirited in your occult practices when confronted with the apathy of the so-called modern world maybe this interesting book about how to incorporate mythology into your esoteric views will shine light on you. Because myths are eternal, truths in them are working on several levels of our beings. This book will bring you great support in that way. It is beautiful when we finally understand that magic was with us from the start in those probably dusty tomes of mythology hidden somewhere in the attic or else...It's time to draw them again, but this time with new understanding. Because this book is for beginners also we can understand that text is in a few places little too much buried in rules about magical techniques. In general, if you want that mythology support and refresh your soul for magic get this book. Thanks.

[Lucretia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. The way it is set up, with twelve sections, gives anyone looking to explore spirituality a full year of studies. In each section you get to read from original text translations, interpretations, and then you are presented with themes, as well ideas for spell and rituals. The spells and rituals are easy to follow and most will have no problems finding, or making what is needed.

Since I was enthralled by the myths, I read straight through, made notes of things I would need, and will be starting again at the first chapter and working more deliberately to study a chapter a month. Some of the myths were ones I was familiar with, and others were new to me, or explored in ways I hadn't considered. They are picked from a great diversity of cultures, making it a truly enriching experience.

[Juli Rahel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mythology is such a meaningful thing in my life that I knew very quickly that Ember Grant's book would hit home with me. It made so much sense to me that a way of connecting with your own interior, spiritual life would be by revisiting these myths and delving into them deeper. So while this made sense once I saw Grant lay it out, I needed that push from her. Especially the trickster and skin changer tales were very useful to me, since I do think I need to get back in touch with the wilderness a little bit more.

While this book may be focused at people more in tune with their magical practices, I still found a lot to gain in it. Ember Grant makes sure to reference the sources of the stories discussed, which I think is key to help readers expand their own reading beyond this book.

[Dana · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

This book takes you through several myths designed to teach and inspire. The myths are lovely to read even if one does not implement the lessons into their practice or daily life. I would say that this may be best suited for beginners who are looking for where they may fit in or even for those who are more seasoned and a re looking for a fresh perspective.

The digital format didn't lend itself to completing the additional items, such as journal entries. I am hoping that the printed copy will be much more enjoyable.

[Linda ( Clary_Starfall ) · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Myth is the foundation of life; it is the timeless pattern, the pious formula, into which life flows when it reproduces its traits out of the unconscious.” Thomas Mann

It’s an very nice collection of several myths / stories that will make you wonder and see things sometimes differently after reading it.

Magic can be found in the smallest things in life 💕

If you want to find out more about myths than this book is definitely an recommendation

[Rayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a gem, though I would not go so far as to say it is a necessity. Wonderful book to build an early collection around, and an easy way to give a simple start to those curious about witchcraft. Lots of the information here is reiterating something, but the author has a refreshingly approachable voice and curates all of the information effectively. I look forward to seeing if they do justice to its physical format, I don't believe digital will be the way to go with this one.

[Paloma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. Since it was for a review I didn’t do the journals and the extra stuff that was presented at the end of each story, but I will definitely go back and do some of the ones I really liked at a later time. A great addition to any library, even those who aren’t religious but enjoy a good mythology compilation. I enjoyed the author’s writing, it felt very soothing and I felt like a was being guided without being overwhelmed.

[Steph Elias · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mythology for a Magical Life is a well-written guide to all things magic. I found it easy to read and very informative. I love the authors writing style, they come across as knowledgeable and friendly. It had lots of great advice and would list several ways to approach things. It is the perfect book for people who like to learn about charms, spells, mythology, tarot, symbols, and many other things. It will make a great addition to your library.

[KatsCauldron R · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sweet well thought out book of spiritual path & work teaching with stories & incorporating that into your magical practices. I love mythology & these stories were presented well & incorporated to help people reach deeper into themselves with old stories. I found this to be a thoroughly delightful presentation that would enhance many people's spiritual practices & an enjoyable read for most.

[Belle · Rating 3 out of 5]

The cover is stunning, and I love the illustrations for the chapter headings as well.

I really like the idea and I am interested in the content of this book, I just struggle with the execution. Walls upon walls of text make absorbing this book extremely difficult for me. It's tedious and tiresome.

Also, I wasn't a fan of having a bibliography after each chapter, it sucked me right out of the book every time.

*Free e-copy received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Eric Hannemann · Rating 3 out of 5]

There is one way to describe Mythology for a Magical Life - and it's "magical". Other words would be "transforming" "intelligent" "bestowed" are all great descriptors of Ember Grant's work. I truly believes if we open our eyes to the mystical, we will live a more authentic life for it, and this book will take you there.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly enjoyed this book about comparing myths with magic. It was well written and I especially liked the rituals that were included. I give this book a thumbs up and I recommend this book for those who are looking for something different to add to their magic. I voluntarily read this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Annarella · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting and thought provoking book about magic and myth. I liked how the author found connections and the exercises/rituals.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

[Paulina · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a beautiful book! I truly loved it from the beginning until the end!

[Jenn Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

The description of this book says it is 12 myths and the spells that go with them. I love the format of this book. It is perfectly designed to rediscover your craft and magical life style. There are 12 stories and each one is connected to a month of the year. They come from all over, not just the cultures you normally see which I loved. I have read myths from all over the world and there were stories I wasn't familiar with.

The format is easy to follow. Each chapter has a story, then a discussion of themes, activities, and reflection exercises. Since I was reviewing this copy I did not complete the exercises. It would be well worth your time to buy the book and complete each chapter a month at a time. There is that much that you could use. Just reading it made me want to get back into rituals. I will definitely be getting my own copy.

[Kellen Green · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got interested in this book due to: It's topic, it's cover, it's idea, and end up happily reassured that my instinct was more than correct.

The Mythology for a magical live is a great mix between a inter cultural myth collection with an scholar study an analysis of the images and meaning hidden in such stories with a how-to guide for magic practice, a dadding a little of motivational and inspiring and prints, activities and advices.

When reading this book I found myself pondering in my interest, experiences and believes, while reading about myths and the lost meanings they have, as well as some suggestions, either related to magical practice or common self care everyday activities, that seem attractive and easy to perform.

Another plus is the focus given to women's role in history and the real-in experience that seem to provide an "you'r not alone" atmosphere throughout the whole book.

It's only downfall in my opinion, was that some of the researched documents or sources seem to be superficial and seem to be "too light" to provide enough weight to the statements and proposals provided. Still much of what is mention is really useful both for the magical and non magical reader.

An e-ARC of this book was kindly provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.