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Mountain Magic: Explore the Secrets of Old Time Witchcraft
Discover the wisdom and magic of Appalachia through Mountain Magic , an illustrated guide to the occult power of the hills and hollows. The people of Appalachia and the American backwoods have a long and deep magical tradition , one rooted in the power of place, land, and nature . With a creativity and ingenuity born of necessity, Appalachian witches built and sustained a wealth of magical knowledge drawn from European, Native American, and African American folk magic. Guided by expert witch and forager Rebecca Beyer , you can explore the wisdom of this powerful Some of the magic and culture you will encounter in this enchanted guide With this beautifully illustrated guide , you can bring the wisdom and magic of the backwoods to meet the challenges of modern life, building a magical practice that’s fueled by ancestral traditions and the nourishing power of the natural world.
The Modern Folk Magic series offers accessible and engaging introductions to folk magical traditions from a fresh, modern perspective. Linking the current enthusiasm for magical practice back to the deeply rooted magical traditions in the United States and elsewhere, the titles in this series give depth and cultural meaning to the practice of witchcraft. These beautiful books serve as hands-on guides for learning and practicing folk magic, from authors who are experts in these traditions. Check out the other books in the series including Hoodoo Magic .
The Modern Folk Magic series offers accessible and engaging introductions to folk magical traditions from a fresh, modern perspective. Linking the current enthusiasm for magical practice back to the deeply rooted magical traditions in the United States and elsewhere, the titles in this series give depth and cultural meaning to the practice of witchcraft. These beautiful books serve as hands-on guides for learning and practicing folk magic, from authors who are experts in these traditions. Check out the other books in the series including Hoodoo Magic .
160 pages, Hardcover
Published February 21, 2023
66 people are currently reading
924 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
January 9, 2023
I loved this book. The only quibble I can have with it is that I wish there was more to it.
Appalachian magic has sorta been pushed aside and started to be forgotten. Because of dumb butts like myself who did not listen to her grandmother. This book was like spending time with her again and I LOVED every second.
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review.
Appalachian magic has sorta been pushed aside and started to be forgotten. Because of dumb butts like myself who did not listen to her grandmother. This book was like spending time with her again and I LOVED every second.
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review.
February 1, 2023
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. 😊
I found this book to be quite an informative and beautiful read. It delved into the history of Appalachia in an easy to consume way. Lots of great info that I could relate to (I can see connections from the past reaching into the future). Plus the illustrations are gorgeous.
I found this book to be quite an informative and beautiful read. It delved into the history of Appalachia in an easy to consume way. Lots of great info that I could relate to (I can see connections from the past reaching into the future). Plus the illustrations are gorgeous.
May 29, 2023
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
Mountain Magic is a beautiful and detailed guide to exploring old-time witchcraft. I loved how informative this book was without being overwhelming at the same time. Appalachia is so interesting, and I've loved exploring it through this book. There's a wealth of information about plants, vegetables, and herbs, and I enjoyed that there were interactive activities with the book, too. The illustrations are just beautiful and add a tough of magic to the pages! I definitely recommend this to anyone who loves plants and the outdoors even if you don't believe in witchcraft as it's a stunning book to have and very informative.
Mountain Magic is a beautiful and detailed guide to exploring old-time witchcraft. I loved how informative this book was without being overwhelming at the same time. Appalachia is so interesting, and I've loved exploring it through this book. There's a wealth of information about plants, vegetables, and herbs, and I enjoyed that there were interactive activities with the book, too. The illustrations are just beautiful and add a tough of magic to the pages! I definitely recommend this to anyone who loves plants and the outdoors even if you don't believe in witchcraft as it's a stunning book to have and very informative.
January 8, 2023
One of the best guidebooks of 2023. I would call it a really good one because of the way the contents are presented in a very comforting and interesting style. The pages are magical I would say!
What you can expect when you get this book:
💫get oodles of good information on the plants, herbs and vegetables we already know and their main importance, how we benefit from each
💫you will be able to get the best practical magic ever (no worries about it!) and you will know why!
💫the entire writing is so interesting and you will get tons of interactive exercises
💫omg! The illustrations! Be ready to get surprised!
A great compilation. Let’s all be witches, shall we?!
Thank you, Quarto Publishing Group - Wellfleet Press, for the advance reading copy.
What you can expect when you get this book:
💫get oodles of good information on the plants, herbs and vegetables we already know and their main importance, how we benefit from each
💫you will be able to get the best practical magic ever (no worries about it!) and you will know why!
💫the entire writing is so interesting and you will get tons of interactive exercises
💫omg! The illustrations! Be ready to get surprised!
A great compilation. Let’s all be witches, shall we?!
Thank you, Quarto Publishing Group - Wellfleet Press, for the advance reading copy.
July 3, 2023
A treasure trove of folklore
I loved reading about all these folk ways. Some I have grown up with, some were new. All were interesting. This book sung to my Appalachian heart and filled it with joy. I am so thankful I grew up in these mountains and with all this rich folklore and ways.
I loved reading about all these folk ways. Some I have grown up with, some were new. All were interesting. This book sung to my Appalachian heart and filled it with joy. I am so thankful I grew up in these mountains and with all this rich folklore and ways.
April 21, 2023
Pretty thorough and mindful of other cultures and racial groups which is nice to see. Some stuff didn’t seem all that applicable to modern day living but I loved the section on plants. Everything was explained pretty simply and the illustrations were so pretty. Really challenged my ideas about witchcraft.
April 5, 2023
I am a big fan of natural remedies. I use a lot of what’s in my own yard for many a malady.. (plantain my go to for bites & rashes) and found some new plant cures in this book. History and lore, we first meet the practitioners. (I had never heard of a Yarb Doctor before.) Into sone of the most used plants and then the charms or curses they can assist with. Personally, I just like their remedy.
Astrology plays into the planting and other aspects. This is just as much a fun read as it is informative.
Astrology plays into the planting and other aspects. This is just as much a fun read as it is informative.
January 8, 2023
Mountain Magic is a beautiful and assessable book from Rebecca Beyer that will be a quick read for anyone interested in Appalachian folklore.
Make no mistake, this is not another witchcraft 101 or spell book. In contrast, Beyer focuses on sharing the old timey ways of Appalachian practitioners such as witch doctors, charmers, water dowsers, yarb men and women, and those who could pray away an ailment. It also includes the traditional use of herbs in Appalachia, along with common lore and superstitions of the local peoples.
An average reader will probably finish this book in its entirety in 3 hours or less. Although some may view this negatively, the writing style is concise and the artwork is gorgeous.
This book is best suited for:
Anyone looking for an easy-to-read guide to Appalachian folklore
Practitioners of folk witchcraft looking for new material to integrate into their practice.
Thank you to Wellfleet Press & NetGalley for providing an ARC.
Make no mistake, this is not another witchcraft 101 or spell book. In contrast, Beyer focuses on sharing the old timey ways of Appalachian practitioners such as witch doctors, charmers, water dowsers, yarb men and women, and those who could pray away an ailment. It also includes the traditional use of herbs in Appalachia, along with common lore and superstitions of the local peoples.
An average reader will probably finish this book in its entirety in 3 hours or less. Although some may view this negatively, the writing style is concise and the artwork is gorgeous.
This book is best suited for:
Anyone looking for an easy-to-read guide to Appalachian folklore
Practitioners of folk witchcraft looking for new material to integrate into their practice.
Thank you to Wellfleet Press & NetGalley for providing an ARC.
February 14, 2023
I'm sure Rebecca Beyer put much effort into this book, yet I'm unsure what audience she had in mind, and if it should be taken serious(ish) or as pure entertainment.
It is beautifully worded, and I'm absolutely in awe with the images, but some of the "spells" are quite questionable, like "gather urine from every family member"... uhm, no. The author cuts very briefly into different doctors and specialties, but doesn't really talk much about them. I know now that they exist, but I would have loved to read more about each of them. The most useful/interesting for me was chapter 5, which tells lores of the seasons and planting by the signs. I couldn't get much use of the rest of the book.
Like mentioned before, it is beautifully written and illustrated, but it doesn't really deliver useful information - at least for me.
It is beautifully worded, and I'm absolutely in awe with the images, but some of the "spells" are quite questionable, like "gather urine from every family member"... uhm, no. The author cuts very briefly into different doctors and specialties, but doesn't really talk much about them. I know now that they exist, but I would have loved to read more about each of them. The most useful/interesting for me was chapter 5, which tells lores of the seasons and planting by the signs. I couldn't get much use of the rest of the book.
Like mentioned before, it is beautifully written and illustrated, but it doesn't really deliver useful information - at least for me.
April 18, 2023
This is a cute book about Mountain Magic, plants, and a few charms. For the most part while reading I wasn't sure what age this book is recommended too, while I do think the illustration are amazing for both a younger audience and adults, I found the descriptions and explanations to only be surface level, and not really interesting for anyone that have read more complex magic books before in their life. The charms were basic and simplistic, which isn't necessary a bad thing. If I had a physical copy it mostly would be for decoration and less for consultation.
June 13, 2025
While this book is aesthetically beautiful, with pleasing fonts and many lovely illustrations, the actual information presented is a little on the light side. Each section is pretty brief, and there are very few spells or charms. There's also a lot of Christian stuff here, and many anti-witch beliefs as well as animal killing, all of which I find quite distasteful.
September 8, 2024
"In popular culture, Appalachia is a place that seems to exist out of time. In reality, it is a region that is neither primitive nor nostalgic: it simply is. Appalachia holds the imagination of America for many reasons, but it deserves to be seen for the complex, beautiful, terrifying, and nuanced place that it is: a diverse and rich space, filled with songs, stories, and magic all its own."
3.5 stars out of 5, rounded down to 3. I remember my Mom taking me to Caves Quik Chek in town when I had a wart develop on my hand to see Old Man Caves behind the counter. We got the best damn bologna sandwich and also he put a string around my wart and told me he was gonna bury the string. By the time that string rots, my wart would be gone. By golly, it was gone in a week. Looking back, he was a witch doctor or whatever. A faith healer. What he did was dip his finger in some kind of salve he kept under the counter. When he grabbed my hand to examine the wart and put the string around my wart, invariably he rubbed that salve on it that was ultimately why the wart dried up and went away. But my kid brain believed it was his "magic" all the same. I love that idea of folk healing, alternative medicine, timeless home remedies as old as the hills.
3.5 stars out of 5, rounded down to 3. I remember my Mom taking me to Caves Quik Chek in town when I had a wart develop on my hand to see Old Man Caves behind the counter. We got the best damn bologna sandwich and also he put a string around my wart and told me he was gonna bury the string. By the time that string rots, my wart would be gone. By golly, it was gone in a week. Looking back, he was a witch doctor or whatever. A faith healer. What he did was dip his finger in some kind of salve he kept under the counter. When he grabbed my hand to examine the wart and put the string around my wart, invariably he rubbed that salve on it that was ultimately why the wart dried up and went away. But my kid brain believed it was his "magic" all the same. I love that idea of folk healing, alternative medicine, timeless home remedies as old as the hills.
February 12, 2023
Really interesting book. I liked that it was concise and almost like an encyclopedia in the way it is laid out. This would make a great reference book to either dip your toes in or as a jumping off point for further research (there is a decent sized bibliography). I also really appreciated the, multiple, warnings to not forage without an expert or seeking an expert opinion as it can be very dangerous.
What really sold me is the book itself. The cover and gorgeous illustrations throughout really lift this book to a must have for those interested in folk magic.
Thank you to Quarto Publishing Group - Wellfleet Press and NetGalley for the eARC.
What really sold me is the book itself. The cover and gorgeous illustrations throughout really lift this book to a must have for those interested in folk magic.
Thank you to Quarto Publishing Group - Wellfleet Press and NetGalley for the eARC.
January 6, 2023
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
a short interesting read that i found very interesting and informative
a short interesting read that i found very interesting and informative
February 12, 2023
As My Mum & I Like to Study about Wiccans & Witches, We Enjoyed Flicking Through this Wonderful Book, Highly Recommended!
(thanks to net galley for this book).
(thanks to net galley for this book).
August 28, 2024
Mountain Magic is interesting, clearly organized, and smart.
January 12, 2023
iniziato a leggere perché cercavo un'introduzione non troppo "manualistica" alla magia e al folklore (e dopo essermi innamorata del podcast “Old Gods of Appalachia” appena ho visto questo libro mi ci sono fiondata lol), e ha raggiunto tutte le mie aspettative.
Pur non essendo esageratamente specifico in ambito di termini o spiegazioni è pieno di nozioni interessanti e informative sull'argomento, il tutto scritto in modo semplice e accompagnato da illustrazioni molto belle.
Insomma, sono molto soddisfatta di questa lettura.
Pur non essendo esageratamente specifico in ambito di termini o spiegazioni è pieno di nozioni interessanti e informative sull'argomento, il tutto scritto in modo semplice e accompagnato da illustrazioni molto belle.
Insomma, sono molto soddisfatta di questa lettura.
January 10, 2023
Mountain Magic is a love letter to the world of Appalachian myths, customs and folk traditions. It offers the reader insight into its rich history and takes them on a short tour of its world of "magic". It’s not a book about witchcraft per se as there are no spells in it (sorry to disappoint) and it focuses more on herbalism and ancient customs. So, a perfect gift for that one friend who dreams about having their own garden.
I picked this book up solely because I was curious. I have read books about witchcraft before, but nothing has ever stuck with me. This one has placed itself in an odd spot—it wasn’t in-depth enough for "practitioners" and it wasn’t descriptive enough for newbies. I struggled with a few sentences because I couldn’t understand what the author meant. What exactly is a cross covered in salt? How am I tying that string exactly? Since a badly executed charm will probably doom me forever, I need clear instructions.
Weird as I am, I read the entire book front to back, and I don’t think the structure makes sense. The book starts with a list of types of practitioners and then goes on to explain the history of Appalachia. Why? History usually comes first. There are also a few inconsistencies and repetitions (which probably happened when chapters were moved). Oddly, the author addresses the reader directly, which isn’t very typical for these "self-help"-types of books either.
The bottom line: a short guide to folk traditions in Appalachia with great illustrations; buy it for a friend
I accessed an ARC through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I picked this book up solely because I was curious. I have read books about witchcraft before, but nothing has ever stuck with me. This one has placed itself in an odd spot—it wasn’t in-depth enough for "practitioners" and it wasn’t descriptive enough for newbies. I struggled with a few sentences because I couldn’t understand what the author meant. What exactly is a cross covered in salt? How am I tying that string exactly? Since a badly executed charm will probably doom me forever, I need clear instructions.
Weird as I am, I read the entire book front to back, and I don’t think the structure makes sense. The book starts with a list of types of practitioners and then goes on to explain the history of Appalachia. Why? History usually comes first. There are also a few inconsistencies and repetitions (which probably happened when chapters were moved). Oddly, the author addresses the reader directly, which isn’t very typical for these "self-help"-types of books either.
The bottom line: a short guide to folk traditions in Appalachia with great illustrations; buy it for a friend
I accessed an ARC through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
January 9, 2023
I’m a Mountain Mama — not from Appalachia but I’ve lived high in the Rocky Mountains for more than ½ my life. So the title caught my attention immediately and then the cover … well I was totally drawn in by the enchanting and magical cover. In fact the entire presentation of this book is exquisitely done, kudos to the artist, it’s the kind of book I can see myself gifting again and again.
And Rebecca has a singsongy way about her writing that’s reminiscent of fireside stories and ancient wisdom shared. It immediately felt warm, welcoming and familiar. Both readable and highly enjoyable, Mountain Magic provides a glimpse into the lives of magical practitioners of Appalachia and categorizes their specialties over the ages. Interesting to find I’d fall under the Yarb Doctor category with my affinity for earth medicine.✨
From the roots of mountain medicine to occult uses of herbs, Mountain Magic is brimming with information and curatives from historical practices. Who knew that mugwort was used in brewing beer?
This book housed way more information than I expected as well as including loads of practical applications and recipes. Overall it’s an absolute gem of a book I highly recommend reading, giving and adding your magical library. ✨
And Rebecca has a singsongy way about her writing that’s reminiscent of fireside stories and ancient wisdom shared. It immediately felt warm, welcoming and familiar. Both readable and highly enjoyable, Mountain Magic provides a glimpse into the lives of magical practitioners of Appalachia and categorizes their specialties over the ages. Interesting to find I’d fall under the Yarb Doctor category with my affinity for earth medicine.✨
From the roots of mountain medicine to occult uses of herbs, Mountain Magic is brimming with information and curatives from historical practices. Who knew that mugwort was used in brewing beer?
This book housed way more information than I expected as well as including loads of practical applications and recipes. Overall it’s an absolute gem of a book I highly recommend reading, giving and adding your magical library. ✨
January 18, 2023
Author: Rebecca Beyer
Genre: Folklore - Mythology - Magic - Witchcraft
Publisher: Wellfleet Press - Copyright 2023
Publication Date: February 21, 2023
ISBN: 9781577153351
Read: January 12-13, 2023
Disclaimer: I received a digital advanced reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
Synopsis from Publisher: Discover the wisdom and magic of Appalachia through Mountain Magic, an illustrated guide to the occult power of the hills and hollows.
The people of Appalachia and the American backwoods have a long and deep magical tradition, one rooted in the power of place, land, and nature. With a creativity and ingenuity born of necessity, Appalachian witches built and sustained a wealth of magical knowledge drawn from European, Native American, and African American folk magic. Guided by expert witch and forager Rebecca Beyer, you can explore the wisdom of this powerful place:
Learn medical and magical uses for common plants and herbs
Meet the traditional magical practitioners of Appalachia, from Blood Stoppers to Water Witches
Delve into a wealth of charms and curses, from witchballs to love workings
Follow the lore of the stars and seasons to grow and thrive
Some of the magic and culture you will encounter in this enchanted guide include:
Magical lore surrounding the weather, seasons, and the movements of the moon and stars
Recipes for a tonic salad to move the blood in springtime and a cleansing spicebush tea
Profiles of the medicinal and magical properties of some essential mountain plants, including ginseng, blackberry, poke, sassafras, and mullein
Charms to protect from evil, including witch bottles, a holly twig charm, and the SATOR ROTAS square
With this beautifully illustrated guide, you can bring the wisdom and magic of the backwoods to meet the challenges of modern life, building a magical practice that’s fueled by ancestral traditions and the nourishing power of the natural world.
Review: Rebecca Beyer lifts the veil of mystery surrounding Appalachian folk magic and provides a glimpse into this unique world of Yarb People, Water Witches, Burn Whisperers, Granny Women, and Conjure Folk. A blend of European magic, West African folklore, and Native American herbal knowledge, Appalachian folk magic is both a fascinating and powerful by-product of the landscape and the people who populated the Smoky Mountains, and it's still practiced today.
Mountain Magic is insightful and interesting in that much of the information has been passed down through generations, influenced by different eras and cultures, but remains largely unchanged in its core beliefs. Beyer's writing is easy to read and offers good explanations for concepts or items that may not be as familiar to readers outside of Appalachia. The illustrations compliment the information provided without distracting from the writing. Overall, this guidebook is a great introduction to a unique culture and the folklore and magic that has helped to shape it.
Genre: Folklore - Mythology - Magic - Witchcraft
Publisher: Wellfleet Press - Copyright 2023
Publication Date: February 21, 2023
ISBN: 9781577153351
Read: January 12-13, 2023
Disclaimer: I received a digital advanced reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
Synopsis from Publisher: Discover the wisdom and magic of Appalachia through Mountain Magic, an illustrated guide to the occult power of the hills and hollows.
The people of Appalachia and the American backwoods have a long and deep magical tradition, one rooted in the power of place, land, and nature. With a creativity and ingenuity born of necessity, Appalachian witches built and sustained a wealth of magical knowledge drawn from European, Native American, and African American folk magic. Guided by expert witch and forager Rebecca Beyer, you can explore the wisdom of this powerful place:
Learn medical and magical uses for common plants and herbs
Meet the traditional magical practitioners of Appalachia, from Blood Stoppers to Water Witches
Delve into a wealth of charms and curses, from witchballs to love workings
Follow the lore of the stars and seasons to grow and thrive
Some of the magic and culture you will encounter in this enchanted guide include:
Magical lore surrounding the weather, seasons, and the movements of the moon and stars
Recipes for a tonic salad to move the blood in springtime and a cleansing spicebush tea
Profiles of the medicinal and magical properties of some essential mountain plants, including ginseng, blackberry, poke, sassafras, and mullein
Charms to protect from evil, including witch bottles, a holly twig charm, and the SATOR ROTAS square
With this beautifully illustrated guide, you can bring the wisdom and magic of the backwoods to meet the challenges of modern life, building a magical practice that’s fueled by ancestral traditions and the nourishing power of the natural world.
Review: Rebecca Beyer lifts the veil of mystery surrounding Appalachian folk magic and provides a glimpse into this unique world of Yarb People, Water Witches, Burn Whisperers, Granny Women, and Conjure Folk. A blend of European magic, West African folklore, and Native American herbal knowledge, Appalachian folk magic is both a fascinating and powerful by-product of the landscape and the people who populated the Smoky Mountains, and it's still practiced today.
Mountain Magic is insightful and interesting in that much of the information has been passed down through generations, influenced by different eras and cultures, but remains largely unchanged in its core beliefs. Beyer's writing is easy to read and offers good explanations for concepts or items that may not be as familiar to readers outside of Appalachia. The illustrations compliment the information provided without distracting from the writing. Overall, this guidebook is a great introduction to a unique culture and the folklore and magic that has helped to shape it.
March 12, 2023
Mountain Magic is a beautifully illustrated collection of the history and presence of magic and folklore in the Appalachian Mountains. Rebecca Beyer, an Appalachian ethnobiologist who was born in Western Pennsylvania and still lives in the mountains, dedicates the book to the diverse people who occupy the land. She teaches readers that the folk magic of Appalachia is ever present but difficult to see. Beyer notes that the Appalachian culture has been long misunderstood and badly represented by outsiders. She lovingly restores faith in the “old Wild Thing” that shrouds the hills and valleys with magic.
The book is divided into sections including The Calling (a breakdown of the different types of Appalachian witches), Mountain Medicine (an overview of the landscape and the folk knowledge of the region), Occult Uses of Appalachian Herbs (such as blackberry, mandrake, goldenrod, and ginseng), The Workings (charms and curses), and Seasonal Lore and Mountain Astrology (a look at the rotating weather and movement of the heavens). Each section is accompanied by beautiful illustrations, recipes, and anecdotes about Appalachian life.
Mountain Magic is full of surprises for the average reader. Beyer explains that Appalachian witches are often practitioners of Christianity who traditionally doctor their families with herbs and charms. She shares that mountain medicine has been heavily influenced by native cultures along with the arrival of Spanish, African, and Scotch-Irish immigrants. She teaches that blood, which can be high, low, thick, or thin, is the most important part of the body when it comes to staying healthy and living in balance with the community and environment.
Although residents of Appalachia may be reluctant to share their folklore with outsiders, Beyer argues that Burn Whisperers (who can take the heat from a burn) and Blood Stoppers (who can heal wounds) have always existed in the mountains and continue to practice today. She explains the gendered rules of magic, reminds readers that forests existed before pharmacies, and shares healing recipes for wild salad and spicebush tea.
I found this short book utterly fascinating and would like to read more books in the Modern Folk Magic series. Mountain Magic skillfully creates a portrait of a place that is steeped in mystery, and readers will come away with a new appreciation for the magic found in the world around them.
Thank you to NetGalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
The book is divided into sections including The Calling (a breakdown of the different types of Appalachian witches), Mountain Medicine (an overview of the landscape and the folk knowledge of the region), Occult Uses of Appalachian Herbs (such as blackberry, mandrake, goldenrod, and ginseng), The Workings (charms and curses), and Seasonal Lore and Mountain Astrology (a look at the rotating weather and movement of the heavens). Each section is accompanied by beautiful illustrations, recipes, and anecdotes about Appalachian life.
Mountain Magic is full of surprises for the average reader. Beyer explains that Appalachian witches are often practitioners of Christianity who traditionally doctor their families with herbs and charms. She shares that mountain medicine has been heavily influenced by native cultures along with the arrival of Spanish, African, and Scotch-Irish immigrants. She teaches that blood, which can be high, low, thick, or thin, is the most important part of the body when it comes to staying healthy and living in balance with the community and environment.
Although residents of Appalachia may be reluctant to share their folklore with outsiders, Beyer argues that Burn Whisperers (who can take the heat from a burn) and Blood Stoppers (who can heal wounds) have always existed in the mountains and continue to practice today. She explains the gendered rules of magic, reminds readers that forests existed before pharmacies, and shares healing recipes for wild salad and spicebush tea.
I found this short book utterly fascinating and would like to read more books in the Modern Folk Magic series. Mountain Magic skillfully creates a portrait of a place that is steeped in mystery, and readers will come away with a new appreciation for the magic found in the world around them.
Thank you to NetGalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
January 26, 2023
Lots of Plants and Their Properties and Uses
THERE ARE MANY TYPES OF MAGICAL PRACTITIONERS
AMONG THE HOLLERS AND ON THE HIGH HILLS. Some are the providers of herbal cures (the Yarb People), some can find an underground well (the Water Witches), and some can even whisper the pain out of a bad burn (the Burn Whisperers).
Here, those called “witch” are often good Christians. There are prayers for a burn, prayers for protection, and even prayers for a cursing. You do what you need to, to get things done.
The author discusses many types of magical practitioners of various forms of crafts, from the Appalachian
witch, the conjure person, witch doctors, granny women and midwives to blood stoppers and many other magical practitioners. The author discusses each types of practitioner in somewhat a bit of detail.
I was thrilled, as always, when I have the opportunity to read others lists of herbs, roots, and magical healing plants, from their viewpoint in regard to the plants' properties, medical and magical uses.
This is a great reference book to have in your library. Highly recommend.
THERE ARE MANY TYPES OF MAGICAL PRACTITIONERS
AMONG THE HOLLERS AND ON THE HIGH HILLS. Some are the providers of herbal cures (the Yarb People), some can find an underground well (the Water Witches), and some can even whisper the pain out of a bad burn (the Burn Whisperers).
Here, those called “witch” are often good Christians. There are prayers for a burn, prayers for protection, and even prayers for a cursing. You do what you need to, to get things done.
The author discusses many types of magical practitioners of various forms of crafts, from the Appalachian
witch, the conjure person, witch doctors, granny women and midwives to blood stoppers and many other magical practitioners. The author discusses each types of practitioner in somewhat a bit of detail.
I was thrilled, as always, when I have the opportunity to read others lists of herbs, roots, and magical healing plants, from their viewpoint in regard to the plants' properties, medical and magical uses.
This is a great reference book to have in your library. Highly recommend.
January 29, 2023
Este libro me parece super interesante porque nos presenta un montón de aspectos que desconocía. En cuanto a plantas, elementos, y todo relacionado con el monte Apalaches.
Aprenda los usos médicos y mágicos de plantas y hierbas comunes.
Conozca a los practicantes mágicos tradicionales de Appalachia, desde Blood Stoppers hasta Water Witches
Adéntrate en una gran cantidad de hechizos y maldiciones, desde bolas de brujas hasta operaciones de amor.
Sigue la tradición de las estrellas y las estaciones para crecer y prosperar.
No es de los tipos de libros que suelo leer, pero la verdad es que me super interesa aprender sobre esto, sobre cómo se utilizan ciertas hierbas, la relación que tienen con otras, los elementos, cómo todo se encuentra interconectado de alguna manera.
La edición de este libro es preciosa, el arte, los pequeños dibujos que la acompañan así también de las grandes ilustraciones.
Un libro que espero que sea traducido en español, y pegaría mucho con Fera, tiene esa estética, esas vibras.
Gracias Wellfleet Press, y Rebecca Beyer por el ARC que leí a través de NetGalley.
Aprenda los usos médicos y mágicos de plantas y hierbas comunes.
Conozca a los practicantes mágicos tradicionales de Appalachia, desde Blood Stoppers hasta Water Witches
Adéntrate en una gran cantidad de hechizos y maldiciones, desde bolas de brujas hasta operaciones de amor.
Sigue la tradición de las estrellas y las estaciones para crecer y prosperar.
No es de los tipos de libros que suelo leer, pero la verdad es que me super interesa aprender sobre esto, sobre cómo se utilizan ciertas hierbas, la relación que tienen con otras, los elementos, cómo todo se encuentra interconectado de alguna manera.
La edición de este libro es preciosa, el arte, los pequeños dibujos que la acompañan así también de las grandes ilustraciones.
Un libro que espero que sea traducido en español, y pegaría mucho con Fera, tiene esa estética, esas vibras.
Gracias Wellfleet Press, y Rebecca Beyer por el ARC que leí a través de NetGalley.
January 31, 2023
#NetgalleyUK #Quartopublishing
Published - 21/02/2023
Rebecca Beyer demonstrates an incredible knowledge of the landscape, nature and culture of the Appalachian region in America. She extols upon the influences of First Nation peoples, African and European communities on both the landscapes and local traditions. Her prosaic writing leaves an indelible impression on such subjects as our place in nature, stewardship, reverence and use of nature in witchcraft or herbalism practices. She provides ample recipes and guidance for spells and potions. Her focus is on the cyclical year and seasonal produce. The illustrations are beautiful. I highly recommend this edition to anyone interested in nature, herbalism, plants, botany science, horticulturalists, history, cultures, traditions, and withcraft. There is an awful lot of information in these pages.
Published - 21/02/2023
Rebecca Beyer demonstrates an incredible knowledge of the landscape, nature and culture of the Appalachian region in America. She extols upon the influences of First Nation peoples, African and European communities on both the landscapes and local traditions. Her prosaic writing leaves an indelible impression on such subjects as our place in nature, stewardship, reverence and use of nature in witchcraft or herbalism practices. She provides ample recipes and guidance for spells and potions. Her focus is on the cyclical year and seasonal produce. The illustrations are beautiful. I highly recommend this edition to anyone interested in nature, herbalism, plants, botany science, horticulturalists, history, cultures, traditions, and withcraft. There is an awful lot of information in these pages.
March 1, 2023
These are the flavors of a place. Each iron nail, each herb, they all tell a story about the way that magic was born.
This is one of the most interesting nonfiction books I've read in a long time. While I don't have much knowledge of herbs and tonics, I'm a big fan of nature and all its hidden abilities and it was fun to learn about the mythology behind plants, animals, seasons and moon phases. The author even included detailed recipes for brewing healing tea with wild herbs and how to make charms for protection. What I found very sympathetic was how she also tried to stay true to the "magical" elements by referencing their African, Persian, European or Appalachian origin.
What made the book even more enjoyable was the beautiful illustrations of every new theme. The art work is delicate and serene and the overall aesthetics of this book is quite feminine and charming.
This is one of the most interesting nonfiction books I've read in a long time. While I don't have much knowledge of herbs and tonics, I'm a big fan of nature and all its hidden abilities and it was fun to learn about the mythology behind plants, animals, seasons and moon phases. The author even included detailed recipes for brewing healing tea with wild herbs and how to make charms for protection. What I found very sympathetic was how she also tried to stay true to the "magical" elements by referencing their African, Persian, European or Appalachian origin.
What made the book even more enjoyable was the beautiful illustrations of every new theme. The art work is delicate and serene and the overall aesthetics of this book is quite feminine and charming.
January 16, 2025
What drew me in: Living so much of my life in Appalachia, I have deep appreciation for the people and natural wonders of the region. There’s such a rich history of witchcraft and folklore, I wanted to learn more.
What I enjoyed: The illustrations are jaw droppingly gorgeous. Each one could be framed and hung on the wall. I spent just as much time taking in the images as I did the words. I also appreciated the clear and focused structure on the various aspects of mountain witchcraft.
What I didn’t love: This book serves more as an introduction and less as a study into the lore and witchcraft of Appalachia. At times, it’s not clear if it wants to be a history book or a how-to. In either area, I was left wanting more.
Bottom line: I’d still recommend for anyone to flip through the pictures and get a taste for the unique culture and perspective of the region.
What I enjoyed: The illustrations are jaw droppingly gorgeous. Each one could be framed and hung on the wall. I spent just as much time taking in the images as I did the words. I also appreciated the clear and focused structure on the various aspects of mountain witchcraft.
What I didn’t love: This book serves more as an introduction and less as a study into the lore and witchcraft of Appalachia. At times, it’s not clear if it wants to be a history book or a how-to. In either area, I was left wanting more.
Bottom line: I’d still recommend for anyone to flip through the pictures and get a taste for the unique culture and perspective of the region.
February 21, 2023
I was given a copy to review via Netgalley. My reviews are always honest and all opinions are my own. #MountainMagic #RebeccaBeyer #Netgalley #BookReview
Mountain Magic is a beautifully illustrated guide to the people of Appalachia and the American backwoods. As someone native the UK I do enjoy learning about the occult and magically traditions of different regions and countries. This book is easily accessible with a lot of knowledge on the subject and presented in a beautiful fashion. I particularly liked to learn about the magical lore surrounding the weather and seasons but also the magical and medicinal properties of plants found in the mountains. A lovely reference for those wanting to venture further afield.
Mountain Magic is a beautifully illustrated guide to the people of Appalachia and the American backwoods. As someone native the UK I do enjoy learning about the occult and magically traditions of different regions and countries. This book is easily accessible with a lot of knowledge on the subject and presented in a beautiful fashion. I particularly liked to learn about the magical lore surrounding the weather and seasons but also the magical and medicinal properties of plants found in the mountains. A lovely reference for those wanting to venture further afield.
August 19, 2023
I'll admit it, this wasn't a book that I wanted to pick up. Looking at the cover and doing a quick flip through the pages, I assumed it was going to be predominately fluff material. But, this is a case to not judge a book by its cover. I picked it up per the recommendation of a trusted friend, and I'm glad I did. Overall, I would say this is a decent book. It is easy to read and can be reference material. Rebecca also did well in writing about the melting pot that is Appalachia and paying respect to the different racial groups and their cultural practices. The only reason I couldn't give this five stars was because there were some topics lacking detail, such as the numbers and colors. That aside, I would still say it's a beginner-friendly book.
April 25, 2025
I really enjoyed this one. Picked it up on clearance at a bookstore because of the beautiful images. Ive read a lot of similar books and some honestly annoy me since I am interested in the topic but more so natural things rather than spells and rituals. This book had some of this too, but it was explaining beliefs that came from people in the area, so I actually enjoyed learning. I do wish there was another one or more detail in this book as I really loved reading about the history of the people in the area and which beliefs came from different areas to Appalachia. The book is beautiful! I am considering buying a second copy so I can deconstruct and frame some of the images. They are printed on the full page which is really nice if you did want to take out any and use as art.
January 15, 2023
Mountain Magic serves as part history lesson and part guidebook. It was a fascinating read about the history of the people of Appalachia and their connection with a long history of magical tradition. The author seemed well positioned to discuss these things as someone who has their own connection with that land, and their writing certainly came across as knowledgable. My only real critique was that it was so short! With beautiful illustrations throughout, I would have loved to read more about some of the traditions the author mentioned and the practices which seemed to influence so much of their lives.
This was a NetGalley Review.
This was a NetGalley Review.
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