Buckland's Complete Book of Witchcraft
by Raymond Buckland
Published by Llewellyn
This book is an exelent intro to a flexible but
Gardnarian-like
classic wiccan practice. While it may seem a bit old-fashioned to novices, it is
definately a good read for anyone interested in the peramiters of what wicca can
be. This is not "dusty corners" wicca. For that you go to Lady Sheba's
book of shadows. It gives you a good idea of what structured covens are doing,
though most don't go sky-clad. That really faded out with the '70's I'm
afraid... at least from experiance of self and others.
A very good reference, but should not be read in a vaccum.
Recommend Wiccan Warrior by Kerr Chulhain as a companion read.
This combination gives you a gut-level appretiation of just how flexible this
religion can be.
No book, or set of books are any complete representation of wicca. This is a
starting point.
Unlike other treatises which focus on the history or a few
spells, Raymnd Buckland's Complete Book Of Witchcraft provides a focused lesson
on witchcraft; from initiation rites and divination rituals to meditation and
dream insights. The step-by-step rituals and their meaning makes for an
excellent guide to witchcraft practices.
This book is truly a must for anybody who is interested in and starting the Wiccan way of life. It touches on many aspects, from history, numerolgy, runes, casting a circle, herbs, etc. It has pages that are used as workbook pages as well as many charts of information. A book very much worth the money.
