THE ARCHIVES

ANDREWS, TEDSIMPLIFIED MAGIC
ARDINGER, BARBARAGODDESS MEDITATION
BRUCHA, JOSEPHTHE NATIVE AMERICAN SWEAT LODGE
DAVIS AND LEONARDTHE WOMEN'S WHEEL OF LIFE
FERGUSON, ANNE-MARIETHE ARTHURIAN TAROT DECK
FITCH, EDMAGICAL RITES FROM THE CRYSTAL WELL
FRANKLIN, ANNATHE SACRED CIRCLE TAROT
JACKSON AND RAVENWOLFTHE RUNE ORACLE
JOHNSON, KENNETHWITCHCRAFT AND THE SHAMANIC JOURNEY
KLEIER, GLENNTHE LAST DAY
LOUIS, ANTHONYTAROT PLAIN AND SIMPLE
MCCOY, EDAINAUTOMATIC WRITING
MONAGHAN, PATRICIAOFFICE ORACLE
MORRISON, DOROTHYEVERYDAY MAGIC
RAVENWOLF,SILVERBENEATH A MOUNTAIN MOON
REGULA, DETRACITHE MYSTERIES OF ISIS
SOPHIAFORTUNE IN A COFFEE CUP
TELESCO, PATRICIAA KITCHEN WITCH'S COOKBOOK
THORRSON, EDREDTHE BOOK OF OGHAM
TYSON, DONALDRUNE DICE
WOLFE, AMBERTHE TRUTH ABOUT SHAMANISM
WOOD, ROBINROBIN WOOD TAROT

LLEWELLYN'S 1999 ASTROLOGICAL CALENDAR
LLEWELLYN'S 1999 MAGICAL ALMANAC
LLEWELLYN'S 1999 WITCHES CALENDER
LLEWELLYN'S 1999 WITCH'S DATEBOOK




Archives

SIMPLIFIED MAGIC:
TED ANDREWS.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS, ST. PAUL, MN. 1993. 187P.
SOFTCOVER. $3.95. ISBN: 0-87542-015-X

This is not a cookbook of spells and incantations. You won�t need any eye of newt, toenails of a bat, or any of the glitz and glam hollywood passes off as magic. What you will need is honesty, integrity, and a strong desire to improve your current connection to the universe. The title is correct in stating the magic is simplified. It�s a beginner�s approach to the hebrew magical tradition known as the qabala.
I like the author�s ability to make the qabala tangible. This is not a magical system of the mind Alone. It is a blending of all aspects of human nature with all aspects of the universe. The author provides easy-to-follow exercises for raising the body�s natural energies. This will help to stabalize and balance the individual�s mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health. The author also provides a diagram/explanation of the tree of life.
This is a must have for students wishing to connect with their higher powers. Its attention to detail, yet non-stringent approach is beneficial and refreshing. The following quote from p. 10 of the book sums it up nicely: "Change does not come from life itself, but from living that life and by acting upon and within it. the qabala assists in this."
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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GODDESS MEDITATIONS.
BARBARA ARDINGER, PH. D.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS. ST. PAUL, MN. 1998. 238P.
SOFTCOVER. $17.95. ISBN:1-56718-034-5

This book is a banquet table full of guided visualizations for the purpose of connecting to the feminine archetypes in nature. To begin, the reader can dine on appetizers of meditations for the nine values of the Great Goddess (Love, Protection, Gratitude, Trust, Community, Creativity, Spirituality, Wisdom, Priestess Power). Then the reader can "watch their weight" with some "light" portions. These consist of such items as "Abundance with Goody Getty", "Love via Aphrodite", "Compassion and Kuan Yin", "Courage and Strength a la Wonder Woman", or the "House Blessing avec Hestia" For the reader not concerned about calories, there are some "heavy" portions in "dark" sauces. These include: "Cutting Ties With the Fates", "Dumping Old Toxic Tapes With General Terminatrix and Her Cosmic Hasmet Crew", Going With Hel to Meet Your Shadow, and "The Widdershins Spiral With Grandmother Spider". For the connoissuers of Goddess works there are visualizations designated for the Chakra Goddesses and also the "Goddess Pillar". This particular exercise has its basis in the Qabala, particularly, Israel Regardie�s meditation on the "Middle Pillar". This one is sure to wake up the taste buds of any practicing meditator. Last, but not least: dessert. These items consist of small affirmations or "Goddesses of Pure Meditation". There are the four elemental ones. The seasons each have one, as do the following: Prophecy (Egeria), Learning (Sheshat), The Mother (Cybele), Beauty (Oshun) and Justice (Astraea), to name a few. So if you�re hungry for meditations and visualizations with a more "feminine taste" than Burger King, try this book. WELL WORTH THE $17.95 PER PERSON. Also, it can be open 24 hours for interested parties.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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LEGEND: THE ARTHURIAN TAROT DECK.
ANNA-MARIE FERGUSON.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS. ST.PAUL, MN. 1995.
KIT: 78 CARDS, 72P BOOK. $34.95. ISBN: 1-56718-265-8

This beautifully crafted and researched deck is a gem for lovers of tarot as well as the Arthurian legend. The watercolors are handsomely and lovingly done by the artist Allan Lee. HIs artwork truly matches the research that Anna-Marie has put into her interpretations of the many legends surrounding Arthur and his knights. Blending the history of the tarot with the legends of Arthur, Anna-Marie has created a powerful tool to aid in the awakening of one�s psyche to the consciousness that connects us all. The symbols are easy to read which only adds to their usefulness. I found this deck to be extremely helpful in tapping into past life regressions. Lots of power behind the legends. I would recommend this to all Arthurian enthusiasts as well as students of the tarot.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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MAGICAL RITES FROM THE CRYSTAL WELL:
ED FITCH. LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS, ST. PAUL, MN. 1997. 147P.
SOFTCOVER. $12.95. ISBN:0-87542-230-6

To any and all individuals interested in learning magical rites, this book should be on a shelf in their home. It may be short in pages, but it is full of useful information too important to miss. The rites can be altered to suit any situation, group, individual. AS A matter of fact, in the book's introduction Mr. Fitch makes the following statement: "We expect the reader to use these rites merely as a guideline, embellishing upon them or altering them to suit the needs of self, family, and grove." This statement alone helped me decide that this book was going to become a member of my ceremonial tools.
The book is divided into seven sections. Those sections include pagan lore, seasonal rites, supplemental rites and power rituals. Also included in the book is a glossary and a list of suggested readings.
I will admit that I was hesitant to read this book. Mr. Fitch has a background in Wicca that extends at least twenty years. I have found in the past that individuals with that amount of training have a tendency not to be able to reach beginners in a language they can understand. Happily, I was proven wrong in this case. The language is simple without being insulting. The idea behind the rites in this book is to make the individual comfortable so that he/she can incorporate themselves into the rites and make them more personally beneficial.
Small book with a lot of powerful suggestions. I suggest there be a copy of this in every magical household,
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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THE SACRED CIRCLE TAROT:
ANNA FRANKLIN; ILLUSTRATED BY PAUL MASON.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS, ST. PAUL, MN. 1998.
312P, 78 FULL-COLOR CARDS. SOFTCOVER. $29.95 ISBN: 1-56718-457-X

I did not know what to expect from this deck. Most of the images were done via computer graphics using Adobe Photoshop. This was a far cry from the traditional painted/charcoaled/sketched images prevalent on most tarot decks. So I approached this particular deck with a little suspicion mixed in my curiousity. I was delightfully shocked by their ability to blend modern techniques with ancient themes. The imagery is made much more compelling by utilizing the technology that surrounds us. The pictures on the cards feel as if you could reach out and touch them; almost 3-D like in their appearance. The description of the Fool�s journey around the Wheel, as seen in the Major Arcana, has been difficult to follow in other tarots. However, Anna Franklin has done a masterful job of parlaying the trip in such a manner that it almost felt like I was on a guided tour. Some may find this disrespectful of tradition. I find it highly imaginative and a welcome addition to my spiritual travels.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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THE RUNE ORACLE:
NIGEL JACKSON & SILVER RAVENWOLF.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS, ST. PAUL, MN. 1996.
BOXED SET: 256P BOOK, 25 CARDS. $29.95. ISBN: 1-56718-364-6

This particlular deck is unlike any tarot I have yet to encounter. They can�t really be classified as tarot because they deal with the Teutonic divinitory tools known as runes. This is not to say that they can�t be used in spreads like the runes. However, the reading one gets from them will be much less symbolic and more direct than any reading with a tarot deck.
The authors have put much time and energy into researching and illustrating this deck. Jackson�s illustrations may appear harsh at times, but therein lies their beauty. There is no need to glamourize them by making them attractive to our base interest in appearance. The rune cards help the reader to go beyond the surface and delve into the deeper meanings in their consciousness.
Ravenwolf�s use of historical and mythic background provides the reader with a way of connecting with the higher forces of the universe. This will help make the reader�s use of the cards more rewarding. By enabling the individual to connect with not only the symbols on the cards but also the myths behind the symbols, the reader can transcend the usual card reading and plunge deeper into the mysteries that make life the never-ending story that it is.
I recommend this deck with one warning. Don�t use this deck (or any other runes, for that matter) if you are only interested in seeing what you want to see. These cards are direct and matter of fact. One must really desire to know the truth otherwise these cards will not be seen as friendly.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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WITCHCRAFT AND THE SHAMANIC JOURNEY.
KENNETH JOHNSON.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS. ST. PAUL, MN. 1998. 262P.
SOFTCOVER. $14.95. ISBN: 1-56718-379-4

This book looks at the role of shamanism as it was perceived during the infamous "Burning Times" of the worldwide witch hunts. It also looks at how shamanism has been capable of surviving relatively unchanged since the dawn of time. The author offers exercises at the end of some of the chapters in order for the reader to better facilitate his/her own understanding of how their pagan ancestors accessed the tree of life and its many branches. It was interesting to note just how influential shamanism has been to the development of the many religions in the world. One can find similarities in Judaism, Christianity, Buddhism, and even Hinduism. A great deal of the information, however, comes out of Europe. The reason for this appears to be one of quantity; more supportive information can be found in the European nations than anywhere else. I found this book to be highly entertaining as well as informative. Definitely a keeper.
RECOMMENDED
REVEIWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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THE LAST DAY.
GLENN KLEIER.
WARNER BOOKS, INC., NEW YORK, NY. 1998. 609P., PAPERBack. $7.50. ISBN: 0-446-60598-0

The book opens in Israel on New Year�s Eve 1999. With media attention at the ultimate zenith of its existence, the New Millennium is ushered in with a bang. Literally. An earthquake rocks the celebrations causing shockwaves in every arena of humanity. The very foundations of humanity�s existence have been picked up, tossed around, and thrown miles off of their original courses. People everywhere have been discussing the idea of Christ�s Second Coming. Religious leaders from every corner of the world and every sect known to man have been claiming "The End Is Near". Spiritual individuals have been preparing for the day their Lord will appear and pass judgment upon humanity. Non-believers have been passing it off as a lot of superstitious nonsense. Both views get knocked askew when the storm hits Israel in the book�s beginning; and the earthquakes are only the start of the turmoil. WAit until the reader discovers what the Messiah has in store for the world. I thought throwing the gamblers out of the temple during the Messiah�s first time on earth was bad. That was just a minor irritation compared to this. This book may start a little slow, but once the initial introduction of plots and characters is over the pace kicks into a heart-stopping rollercoaster ride. WIth a mixture of mystery, political intrigue, romance and spirituality, this book is sure to have readers questioning their ideas about Christ�s Second Coming. I enjoyed the book. There were a few characters who felt like nothing more than filler when i believe they were intended to be more focal. other than that, the book was entertaining. I like a book that questions the validity of the established and accepted dogmas in religion.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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LLEWELLYN�S 1999 ASTROLOGICAL CALENDAR.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS, ST. PAUL, MN. 1998. 48P. 13 X 10.
12 FULL-COLOR PAINTINGS. $12.00. ISBN: 1-56718-946-6

I know next to nothing about astrology. Basically, i just know the minimum. My birth sign, my ascendent, and the fact that i�m really more Virgo than I care to admit sometimes. I bought this calendar for the artwork. Not necessarily the best reason, but hey.....I bought it, didn�t I? I was delightfully surprised by not only how beautiful the artwork is, but also by how much information LLEWELLYN�S crammed into each month. Each month has the horoscope for all twelve signs. There�s also an ephemeris benath each horoscope listing. Then there are the complete planetary locations per day. These will be helpful for anyone with a large amount of knowledge on this particular subject. FOr those of us who are new to this, there is an introduction to astrology on page 27 and this makes up the last part of the calendar. the conversion charts at the end of the calendar will be helpful for timing spells, planting gardens, or just plain knowing where the planets are at the moment. Which, for curious people like me, may be all the reason needed to own this calendar.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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LLEWELLYN�S 1999 MAGICAL ALMANAC.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS, ST. PAUL, MN. 1998. 345P.
SOFTCOVER. $6.95. ISBN: 1-56718-940-7

Once again, Llewellyn Publications has gathered together a sizeable amount of talent and placed it in their annual almanac. This has become a mainstay in my household since I first stumbled upon it in 1994. FUll of educational as well as entertaining articles, the Llewellyn�s Magical Almanac is a treasure trove of information designed to help anyone involved in magical and spiritual undertakings. The 1999 almanac has a new look in regards to the calendar section. In past years the days and dates were blocked off individually. This year, they are free-running with the particular zodiacal sign as well as the month as page headers. They still list colors of the day, incense of the day, and moon phases. They also still list certain celebrations wherever applicable. At the end of each month, there has been added little tidbits of magical information such as "Scott Cunningham�s Magical Principles" (April), "High Tides" (June) and "The 14 Constellations of the Zodiac" (September). I�Ve enjoyed the previous almanacs and hadn�t thought the editors could really improve on an already good idea. The 1999 Magical Almanac has proven to me that there�s always room for making a good thing better.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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LLEWELLYN�S WITCHES� CALENDAR 1999.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS, ST. PAUL, MN. 1998. 36P. 13 X 10.
12 FULL-COLOR PAINTINGS. $12.00. ISBN: 1-56718-945-8

This calendar is full of all sorts of interesting little tidbits to make a witch�s life a little easier. Every month has planetary alignments, colors of the day, and moon phases. There�s also lore pertaining to the month at hand, as well as recipes for incense, spells, and even edibles. As an added bonus, there are several articles by well-known Llewellyn authors located at the back of the calendar. Also included at the end of the calendar is a listing of astrological symbols. This is helpful for those of us not as well-versed in the particulars of astrology.
I found many pertinent pieces of information that will be most helpful in the year to come. I especially liked all the little pieces of trivia on the individual days of the months. This is both entertaining and instructional. Defintely worth the $12.00.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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LLEWELLYN�S WITCHES� DATEBOOK 1999.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS. ST. PAUL, MN. 1998. 144P.
WIRE BINDING. $9.95. ISBN: 1-56718-949-0

This would make the perfect gift for the witch in business. it has space for all of the major appointments as well as room to list any upcoming rituals and other pagan events. Of course, you don�t have to be in business, nor do you have to be a witch in order to appreciate this datebook. you don�t really even have to be a pagan, but that might be helpful. Otherwise, some of the information may be lost on you.
This little datebook contains a number of articles by some of Llewellyn�s most prolific authors, as well as some new and unfamiliar names. There is artwork and recipes and all-purpose information throughout the book, making it far more interesting than the average, daily planner. The one thing that really struck me as neat was the space in the back of the book for addresses and phone numbers. There was even a spot for e-mails. How�s that for blending the old ways with technology? Just one complaint....not enough pages for the addresses et al. But I guess if I want more space for that kind of information, I can just go buy an address book.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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TAROT: PLAIN AND SIMPLE.
ANTHONY LOUIS.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS. ST. PAUL, MN. 1997. 322P.
SOFTCOVER. $14.95. ISBN: 1-56718-400-6

For anyone who has ever given up reading tarot because they felt comprehension would only be achieved upon studying psychoanalytic theories for many years, this book should be on your "to read" list. After a brief overview of the tarot, which includes historical background and personal experience from the author, the book moves moves into the different spreads and how to use them. The author does very well in keeping the language "plain and simple". No heavy psychoanalytic phraseology is used. He makes a comment at the beginning of the card descriptions alerting the reader that the descriptions used are his. He has based them on personal studies, but does not claim they are the only interpretations to use. The reader should use his/her own feelings about the cards as well. The author is merely offering suggestions that could be used as guidelines. My only caution would be against trying to read the book from cover to cover. Yes, the language is simple, but there are 78 cards each with their own key words and phrases. The author also includes meanings for the reverse position of each card. Trying to ingest all of the meanings at once could cause burn out. All in all this is an extremely user friendly book. The illustrations, based on the Robin Wood tarot, are also easy to read. The images are pleasing, making the symbols easier to see.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER : CHUCK LUKENS

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HOW TO DO AUTOMATIC WRITING.
EDAIN MCCOY.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS. ST. PAUL, MN. 1997. 267P.
SOFTCOVER. $3.99 ISBN: 1-56718-622-9

In order for any endeavor to be successful, it requires a good solid foundation. That�s What you�ll find with this book. Ms. McCoy presents a series of exercises that will help lay the groundwork for automatic writing. They are concise, intelligent, and full of common sense; plus the language is easy-going and fluid. My only drawback is the amount of typos i encountered along the way. (simple oversights on the part of the proofreader but annoying nonetheless.) Overall, I found this book to be beneficial not just for automatic writing but for any task that requires contact with one's higher self. The meditation techniques are interchangeable and can be adapted to suit any purpose. The one thing that i really liked about this book was the fact that Ms. McCoy took time to address some of the most commonly asked questions regarding automatic writing. She handled these with an approach that put the reader at ease, explaining through personal experiences the many joys and pitfalls associated with this type of divination. This book is humourous, intelligent and above all, easily accessible. A good book for beginners and individuals proficient in the art of automatic writing.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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OFFICE ORACLE.
PATRICIA MONAGHAN.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS. ST. PAUL, MN. 1999. 216P.,
SOFTCOVER. $7.95 ISBN: 1-56718-464-2

Patricia Monaghan has expounded on an old way to utilize spare change. You can use it as a meditative sign post while at work. All you need are four coins (two each of varying sizes), a few minutes of silence, and this book. there are 200 different oracles for the benefit of keeping in touch with your spiritual side while in the "working" world. just toss the coins three times, follow the numerical value chart, then read the oracle for the number you rolled. it�s that simple. No fuss, no hassle (special number to use in case of interruptions), and best of all, no need to wait until the planets are in a certain alignment. no offense to those who practice ceremonial magick, but i prefer the simple approach. If you do too, then this book�s for you. It�s fabulous fun fortune telling for less than a cup of coffee.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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EVERYDAY MAGIC.
DOROTHY MORRISON.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS. ST. PAUL, MN. 1998. 320P.
SOFTCOVER. $9.95. ISBN: 1-56718-469-3

Over all, I found this to be a very helpful book. The spell work was concise and very workable. The time, energy and money-saving ideas were the type that prompts a serious smack on the forehead, with a whispered, "Of course! I should have known that!" The resource guides and the lists of workings are easy to use. Ms. Morrison�s writing style is very accesible and easy enough for a novice to follow. I especially appreciated the warnings, which were woven into the book. I had my own theory concerning the "ripple effect" Morrison discussed, and I felt it was very appropriate that it was added among the others. This is a great book for the "kitchen witch", those new to the craft or not able to go all out financially with ritual. The spells geared toward self-growth and the practical applications of magic (e.g., the "Traffic-jam Easement Spell"), were all interesting to read. I found the arrangement of the book to be conducive to finding the proper "recipe" for a magical need. The cover art and internal graphics were well done. Ms. Morrison�s book is a good addition to any magickal library.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: PAT HARRISON

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THE MYSTERIES OF ISIS:
HER WORSHIP AND MAGICK.
DETRACI REGULA.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS: ST. PAUL, MN. 1995. 300P.
SOFTCOVER. $19.95. ISBN: 1-56718-560-6

This book is an eclectic conglomeration of historical facts, myths, and legends all pertaining to Isis. I found it to be informative, yet disappointing. It's set up resembles a text book. I found this reminiscent of history books I was forced to read in high school. Needless to say, reading this book did not offer me the pleasure I was hoping to find. As far as content goes, I was delighted by the amount of information contained between the covers. There is far more to Isis than merely being a Goddess worshipped by the Egyptians. Her influence can be felt worldwide. In spite of my enthusiasm for the information in the book, I was unhappy with the layout. This may sound like a petty thing to be upset over, but if a book doesn't flow, then the reader may get lost in a quagmire of facts, like water in a slightly clogged drain. The water gets through, eventually, but it takes a lot of plunging. The chapters are broken down as if they were hours in a day. Chapter One is "The First Hour of Daylight", with Chapter Twenty-four being "The Last Hour of Night". I THOUGHT This was a highly inventive way of studying the impact Isis has had on civilization. However, the author's consistency in referring the reader to previous chapters or chapters further ahead was annoying. This helped contribute to the books slow movement. There are four appendices, endnotes, a bibliography, and an index included at the end of the book. The first three appendices deal with interpretations of Isian myths by Plutarch and Apuleius. The fourth appendix is a handy resource guide for books, magazines, vendors, and religious organizations recommended by the author. Overall, the body of work is fascinating. The layout could have made it much more memorable.
RECOMMENDED TO INDIVIDUALS NOT PRONE TO FALLING ASLEEP WHILE READING HISTORICAL TEXT BOOKS.
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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A KITCHEN WITCH�S COOKBOOK.
PATRICIA TELESCO.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS. ST. PAUL, MN. 1998. 369P.
SOFTCOVER. $17.95 ISBN: 1-56718-707-2

Tired of the same old hamburgers and hotdogs at the family picnics? Want to liven up the potato salad? Better yet, want to introduce something new and interesting to members of your circle? Then this book should find its way into your kitchen. There are recipes for everything from appetizers and snacks to the main course and dessert. The recipes have been chosen from all parts of the globe. They also have one thing in common: they are designed to bring magic into your culinary delights. There�s even a section on canning for those of us who grow our own produce. This book is written with charm and wit. The author truly enjoys cooking and it shows. So if you want to add a bit of the sacred to your seafood or put divine inspiration into your meatloaf put this book next to your crockpot. After all, no one ever said a cauldron couldn�t run on electricity.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: TIELENGRAE BLACKBIRD

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THE BOOK OF OGHAM.
EDRED THORSSON.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS. ST. PAUL, MN. 1994. 214,
SOFTCOVER. $12.95. ISBN: 0-87542-783-9

ADmittedly, I did not read the entire book. i had a difficult time getting through the first chapter. As a matter of fact, I didn�t. halfway through it, i put the book aside and picked up my copy of The Velveteen Rabbit. I needed something extremely simple to digest after the heavy course of language I had attempted to swallow. This book is not for beginners. Somewhere along the path of learning, one should pick up some books on ogham for beginners. One should also pick up some introductory language courses on Old Irish. being familiar with Celtic mythology would be a plus, too. I do not doubt for a minute that the author is extremely well-versed and educated in the intricacies of ogham. The way the book is written is proof to that. However, his expertise may be his downfall. It�s very daunting to a reader who feels that a mandatory course in Celtic lore must be taken before this book can be read. I like the book�s layout. I�m sure the information concerning the divinitory aspects of ogham are very concise. They are just a little too concise for beginners.
NOT RECOMMENDED FOR BEGINNERS
REVIEWER: TIELENGRAE BLACKBIRD

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RUNE DICE.
DONALD TYSON.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS. ST. PAUL, MN. 1997.
BOXED SET: 4 WOODEN DICE WITH 288P.
ILLUSTRATED SOFTCOVER BOOK. $17.95. ISBN: 1-56718-748-X

As with all runes, these are not for the faint-hearted. Unlike most runes, however, they are not to be read in a linear fashion. The runes most of us know today are laid out in a pre-ordained pattern (Celtic Cross, etc.). To use the rune dice, one must first draw a circle. This can be on any surface; a piece of paper, the living room carpet (with chalk), even the ground. The dice are then cast into the circle and the reading commences. This, to me, gives a more total view of the situation in question because the reader must look at the patterns that are formed and not just a straight line. The book that accompanies these dice is very well written. Mr. Tyson takes a fair amount of time delving into the history of runes. This helps to show the reader how he came to create his rune dice. This fascinated me because i like to know the "wheres" and "hows" of the divinitory tools i use. Along with the history, Mr. Tyson includes diagrams of different matrices into which the dice may be cast.. There are nine matrices included, each consisting of a large circle. Most of the circles, then have some sort of dividing lines drawn within them. How the rune dice fall within these lines is how they are interpreted. After each matrix, Mr. Tyson includes a sample reading of that particular matrix. The rune dice, as with any divinitory tool, take time to understand and read. These took longer for me simply due to my linear thinking. I wanted all the interpretations in nice, neat compartments so I could see them more easily. The rune dice do not work in a linear manner. They show the many angles that a situation can take. In the long run, this is better for a total picture. However, for the brain that is used to seeing in straight lines, this takes a lot of convincing. Good peripheral vision comes in handy with the rune dice. I'm still not comfortable enough to read the rune dice for anyone but myself. Like they say "Practice makes perfect". If you are looking for a tool that will show a broader picture, buy the rune dice. Because there aren�t any set patterns to learn, they are quite adaptable. Just remember that they are not linear by any stretch of the imagination.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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THE TRUTH ABOUT SHAMANISM.
AMBER WOLFE.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS. ST. PAUL, MN. 1994. 48P.
SOFTCOVER. $2.99. ISBN: 0-87542-889-4

Another book in Llewellyn�s "The Truth About" series, this little book covers an introductory look at shamanism. Relying on a small amount of historical background, Ms. Wolfe explains that shamanism may have been an "exclusive" spiritual path at one time. However, that is no longer the case. Anyone can reap the benefits of a shamanic journey. All that is required is an honest willingness to travel the world tree that resides in all of us. The shamanic journey is a journey of the self. In order to perform any healing, the shaman first has to heal him/herself. This is a necessity. How can a shaman help others find their paths if he/she does not know their own? In this book, Ms. Wolfe has set down a few guidelines to help any interested parties begin to experience this unique and rewarding path. This book offers information concerning power objects (i.e. animal totems, herbs, feathers, etc.), performing divination with natural elements, and experiencing a shamanic journey. it is written in a style that is understandable without being insulting. This book is a helpful look into the worlds of shamanism and how they can influence our own journeys. Great way to introduce this spiritual pathway to someone with questions about shamanism�s role in their life.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: TIELENGRAE BLACKBIRD

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THE ROBIN WOOD TAROT.
ROBIN WOOD.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATIONS.
ST. PAUL, MN. 1991. 78 FULL-COLOR CARDS, 56P. INSTRUCTION BOOKLET.
$19.95. ISBN: 0-87542-894-0

By far, this has been the easiest tarot deck with which I have worked. Aside from being extremely beautiful from an artistic standpoint, they are also extremely simple. This can be disconcerting for someone whose previous experience with tarot has required at least three books to help interpret a spread. However disconcerting simplicity may be, I am indebted to Robin Wood for creating a deck that peels away some of tarot�s undeserved complexity. It is understandable that the symbols on a tarot card can be interpreted in many ways. Robin�s artistic mastery presents these images in a manner that brings the symbols into the reader�s view at first glance. There isn�t endless searching through hidden meanings only to discover that the reading doesn�t make sense because a symbol couldn�t be seen. The simplicity and beauty of these cards also makes it easier to identify with the pictures and the individual stories they have to tell. I am delighted with the results I have received working with this deck. They make sense to me. Making sense is half the reading. The other half is personal interpretation which is also simplified with this deck.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS



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THE NATIVE AMERICAN SWEAT LODGE: HISTORY & LEGENDS.
JOSEPH BRUCHAC.
THE CROSSING PRESS: FREEDOM, CA, 1993. 139 P.
HARDCOVER, $12.95 ISBN: 0-89594-637-8

If you have ever wanted to take part in a sweat lodge but haven't had the opportunity, this book will give you a chance to better understand why this is such a sacred and powerful tool of the Native Americans.
The author is part Abenaki Indian, and so is more than qualified to share the stories and history behind the practice of the sweat lodge. The author begins by explaining the history of the sweat lodge as it was practiced by early Native Americans as well as other cultures. The next section is devoted to the parts of the lodge and each part is given its own chapter so that the reader can more fully grasp the intent and meaning behind the lodge. The rest of the book is given over to stories and legends from a variety of Native American tribes to explain the uses and origins of the sweat lodge.
this book is definitely recommended for anyone thinking about participating in a sweat lodge and for those interested in learning more about Native American culture.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: MARY CARTER-JOHNSON

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THE WOMEN'S WHEEL OF LIFE: THIRTEEN ARCHETYPES OF WOMAN AT HER FULLEST POWER.
ELIZABETH DAVIS AND CAROL LEONARD.
VIKING ARKANA: NY, 1996. 240P.
HARDCOVER, $22.95. ISBN: 0-670-86227-4

Any woman interested in finding ways to understand herself will find this book fascinating. Written by women for women, it takes the faces of the Goddess, and expands them into archetypes which apply to women at different stages of life. In addition to the common faces of the Triple Goddess, a fourth face called the Matriarch has been added between mother and crone. This addition makes the concept of the Goddess more accessible to women of every age. This book draws on the experiences of the authors, as well as upon numerous interviews they conducted with women ages 11-80+.
I highly recommend this book to any woman who would like to understand herself, as well as to any man who would like to learn more about the life changes of the women in his life.

REVIEWER: SHARON CUSTER

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BENEATH A MOUNTAIN MOON
SILVER RAVENWOLF.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATION. ST. PAUL, MN 1995. 343P.
SOFTCOVER, $15.95. ISBN: 1-56718-722-6

Someone is trying to eliminate the entire Belladonna clan. Unless Elizabeyta wants to join the list of family members already deceased, she'll stop the murderer before she's next. The problem is, she's not really sure who's been doing the killings. Incapable of turning to her family for help, she enlists the aid of some unlikely partners. The resulting story will keep the reader engrossed for hours.
Silver Ravenwolf can add fiction to her list of writing fortes. Her characters are believable. I actually found myself wondering if they were based on real-life individuals and not just creations of her imagination. The story's setting also helped support this. Set in Pennsylvania, Silver mentions such places as York, and Harrisburg, helping to solidify the possibility of the book's basis in reality. The real reason behind my theory is all of the information pertaining to Wicca. Knowing SIlver's background in the ancient ways, I Found the portrayal of Elizabeyta Belladonna as a Priestess in the Craft to be more believable than if the character would have been created by Stephen King.
My only complaint concerns a battle of magics that takes place near the end of the book. While the battle was raging, I found myself envisioning what this battle would look like if George Lucas got his hands on it. I understand that in order to keep the reader's attention, battles between magic users have to be couched in a 'bigger than life' fashion. I was just a little annoyed that realism had to be sacrificed in order to do so. When i've cast a magic circle i haven't had blue fire issuing directly from my fingertips.
This book is highly entertaining and well-crafted (no pun intended). I've read other mysteries involving charaters who were supposed to be witches. most of them have been laughable, if not down-right insulting. SIlver maintains authenticity throughout making her characters more credible.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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FORTUNE IN A COFFEE CUP.
SOPHIA.
LLEWELLYN PUBLICATION. ST. PAUL, MN 1999. 278P.
SOFTCOVER. $ 9.95 ISBN: 1-56718-610-6

Don�t let the size of this book fool you. Its dimensions are 5" by 5 1/2", which is considerably smaller than a regulation paperback. However, this little volume contains quite a bit of knowledge. Sophia gives the history of reading coffee grounds from its inception in the Middle East and Africa (where it is still practiced today) to her own personal background with this type of divination. It is an oral tradition that has been passed down to her from her grandparents. Now, through the written word, she passes it on to the many individuals who would like to use a more exact divintory method. This book is easy to read and the coffee grounds readings, themselves are easy to perform. All Anyone needs is a white coffe cup, a few extra coffee grounds, and an imagination. The Readings are no more difficult than looking at pictures in clouds. It�s truly that simple. Want to make your morning cup of coffee more than just a way to get caffeine into your system? Buy this book. Open more than just your physical eyes with your morning java.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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LLEWELLYN�S WITCHES� CALENDAR 1999.

LLEWELLYN PUBLICATION. ST. PAUL, MN 1998. 36P. 13 X 10. 12 FULL-COLOR PAINTINGS.
$12.00. ISBN: 1-56718-945-8

This calendar is full of all sorts of interesting little tidbits to make a witch�s life a little easier. Every month has planetary alignments, colors of the day, and moon phases. There�s also lore pertaining to the month at hand, as well as recipes for incense, spells, and even edibles. As an added bonus, there are several articles by well-known Llewellyn authors located at the back of the calendar. Also included at the end of the calendar is a listing of astrological symbols. This is helpful for those of us not as well-versed in the particulars of astrology.
I Found many pertinent pieces of information that will be most helpful in the year to come. I especially liked all the little pieces of trivia on the individual days of the months. This is both entertaining and instructional. Defintely worth the $12.00.
RECOMMENDED
REVIEWER: CHUCK LUKENS

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