Book Reviews/Recommendations

Mindful_Trent

I figured we'd need a thread on books eventually - so why not start one out? :laugh:

I HIGHLY recommend the book "29 Gifts: How a Month of Giving Can Change Your Life" by Cami Walker
http://www.amazon.com/29-Gifts-Month-Giving-Change/dp/073821356X

While the book is NOT Pagan-specific (or specific to any religion, really), the author's story is centered around advice given to her by a medicine-woman friend/spiritual advisor who seems to be of a pagan-type path. I loved the message of the book and the personal story that the author shared with us. I also like that the book challenges us to try to encorporate giving (which is defined very loosely, mind you) into our everyday lives. The book caused me to take a look at my energy and ask myself what type of energy I'm putting out into the universe.

Here's the synopsis from Amazon (since I don't have the book handy):

At age thirty-five, Cami Walker was burdened by a battle with multiple sclerosis, a chronic neurological condition that made it difficult for her to walk, work, or enjoy her life. Seeking a remedy for her depression after being hospitalized, she received an uncommon prescription from an African medicine woman:Give to others for 29 days.

29 Giftsis the insightful story of the author’s life change as she embraces and reflects on the naturally reciprocal process of giving and receiving. Many of Walker’s gifts were simple —a phone call, spare change, a Kleenex. Yet the acts were transformative. By Day 29, not only had Walker’s health and happiness improved, but she had created a worldwide giving movement.

The book also includes personal essays from others whose lives changed for the better by giving, plus pages for the reader to record their own journey. More than a memoir,29 Giftsoffers inspiring lessons on how a simple daily practice of altruism can dramatically alter your outlook on the world.

baisleac

Oooh... great topic!

One of my favorites is When, Why ... If by Robin Wood (of my favorite Tarot set fame).
(http://www.amazon.com/When-Why-Robin-Wood/dp/096529840X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1321309431&sr=8-1).

I also don't have the book handy (am at work, so productively too.) But the Amazon book description (looks like it was written by Robin too):

"This is a workbook dealing with ethics from a Pagan/Wiccan perspective.
I began writing it several years ago, because folk kept asking me questions about right and wrong. I tried to tell them they should be asking their teachers these questions; but some of them didn't have teachers, and some had teachers who didn't seem very interested in the topic.

So I wrote the book; not to tell you what you should do, but to tell you how you can figure out for yourself which is the best thing for you to do. I'm not a guru, and I don't have all the answers; only you have your answers. And if you work through this book, you may have a better idea what they are.

It has an introduction, 9 chapters (The Beginning, Honesty, Self, Love, Help, Harm, Sex, Will and Ethics,) an Appendix that explains modern Neo-Pagan Wicca in six pages, a glossary of Pagan/Wiccan terms, and a recommended reading list."

And the top rated review by Mari Morgan (NH, USA) sums up my opinion better than I could write it.

""When, Why... If" is the first book I've seen that really tackles the ETHICS of Paganism past the blithe recitations of the Wiccan Rede and the Law of Return. There ought to be more - there are far too many books heavy on the HOW but very, very light on the WHY (or why not!), and living an ethical life without defined rules can be very difficult for some. Wood's book helps you define those rules for yourself. This one was hard to obtain for a while (took me more than a year to get my copy after it was recommended to me by someone I trusted) but I'm very glad it is readily available now. It's somewhat Wicca-oriented, but with the exceptions of the Appendix and the Glossary I didn't find it too intrusive.
This is not a comfortable book to read, and the exercises are rugged. You will have to look at the most unlikable parts of yourself and drag them up into the light of day, and that can be pretty unpleasant - BUT you'll be all the better for it in the end."

hm_day

One of my personal favorites for reference is the Wiccan Handbook: http://www.google.com/products/catalog?q=wiccan+handbook&um=1&ie=UTF8&tbm=shop&cid=12204270178429414791&sa=X&ei=5K3BTrHsD8P40gG309HlBA&ved=0CD4Q8wIwAw

The Wicca Handbook is both a tutorial for new witches and an exceptionally well-organized reference book for experienced practitioners. It guides us through the first steps in becoming a witch and explores many Wiccan traditions, initiations, and magical practices. The Wiccan year--the eight Sabbats--along with many of its rituals and ceremonies are examined. Holland also provides the background of every facet of witchcraft, such as spells for every occasion, psychic protection, numerology, basic astrology, and the lore of stones, metals, candles, animals, and much more. High Priestess Eileen Holland's helpful guide is rooted in practicality and intended as a working handbook, not a simple beginner's guide. The information is rich; clear directions are given, and its range of content is extensive. Spells, circles, crystals, and color magic, herbs, health, and healing are all covered with abundant direction on how to do it, when to do it, and suggestions for seeking guidance from the deities. Those who have been on their path for a few years will find this a great reference book to refer to time and again

A novel of mine that is my favorite, that I'm sure MANY practicing Pagans are aware of (it's also a movie) is the Mists of Avalon: http://www.amazon.com/Mists-Avalon-Marion-Zimmer-Bradley/dp/0345350499

I couldn't find a good synopsis of this one, but it's about King Arthur and Gwinivere, etc. The book and movie are amazing and, in my opinion, a must see/must read. It's a long one, but well worth it!

baisleac

Library fail today - Zero kid aimed, non-Christmas, winter holiday books (not even Hannukah).

Any recommendations for the preschool crowd? This time of year we're looking for non-Pilgrim/Indian myth, Thanksgiving and Yule books (but would be happy with ANY non-Christmas winter holiday) for the munchkin.

LexxyV

I have a long list of books! Love this topic!

On my iPad but when I get on comp next I will post more.

I suggest " Book of Shadows" by Phyllis Curott

I love this book for the personal story Phyllis presents along with all the many lessons she learned as she embarked on her new spiritual path.

SkinnyShadow

"The Pagan Christ" - Tom Harpur
Definitely a book that EVERYONE should read!

... and the best book I've come across on stones/crystals is "Love Is In The Earth" - Melody

Bright Blessings,
- K.




***Marion Zimmer Bradley is my favourite fiction writer btw

lizard053

I have to recommend both of Diane Sylvan's books. "The circle within" and "the body sacred". While more aimed at women, these books really taught me that to live the best life for you is finding what you need within. I love them.

Another great read was "neither wolf nor dog". I can't remember the author, but it's usually in the native american sections at bookstores. It's a good story and a great social commentary.