Guest Author - Fiona Blackwolf

Every time I walk into a major bookstore, I am amazed at the growth in the Wicca and Metaphysical sections. There are so many books out there how would someone new to the path know where to begin? So I decided to make a short list of some of the books that have helped me out along the way. The title of each book is a link, so if you would like more information, or to know what the book looks like, you can click it and go to the amazon.com page for that book. There you can find other information, and reviews. Some of the books may even let you read a few pages. I hope you can find some value in these books as I have.

But remember, it is your Wicca. If you ever read something that doesn’t feel right or you are not sure about simply don’t use that piece of information, or better yet, research the idea further. Feel free to email me or post questions about any of the books to the forum.

Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner by Scott Cunningham
This is an excellent book for those just starting on the path. Cunningham’s writing
style is clear and understandable. He allows the reader to feel like they are on the right track without telling them what to do. This book also touches on most basic aspects of Wicca.

The Spiral Dance by Starhawk
One of the “classics” of the path. Starhawk describes Wicca in the context of her own feminist experience. But don’t let that make you think that men can’t get value from this book .It is an excellent resource that I personally feel every Wiccan should read at least once. It has been revised and updated at least twice, most recently for its 20th anniversary.

Witch Crafting by Phyllis Curott
Witch Crafting is a great book for Wiccans of all levels, not just those new to the path. The discussions on the Rule of Three and the Wiccan Rede are definitely thought provoking and worth a read on their own. This book also includes exercises for working with the elements and the God & Goddess.

The Witches' Goddess and
The Witches' God by Janet & Stewart Ferrar
Both of these books are excellent for their descriptions of the God and Goddess archetypes.

Learning the Tarot by Joan Bunning
Tarot may not be the divination method of choice for many Wiccans, however I believe that we all need at least a basic understanding of the card meanings and imagery. Also, tarot can be used in many ways aside from divination. The cards can be used in spellwork and meditation, for example. A basic understanding of the cards will help you along in those areas as well.

Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs by Scott Cunningham
Called “the herb bible” by some Wiccans; this book lists many herbs and their magical properties and uses. A great resource. I know several people who have more than one copy so that they always have it handy.

Circle Round by Starhawk,et al
This book was written with Pagan families in mind. It contains ideas for teaching children about the elements and holidays in a way they can relate to. There are also sample rituals that include the whole family.

The Twelve Wild Swans by Starhawk and Hillary Valentine
This book is unique in that it uses the fairy tale of the Twelve Wild Swans to teach the reader on several levels. This makes it a great book for advanced practitioners as well as newer Wiccans. The exercises are divided into three paths, which can be followed in several ways. This is a phenomenal book for anyone making a serious commitment to working on the path.

Your Personal Journal
This may be the most important book of all. I feel strongly that as we walk on this path we should keep a record of our activities. Reading all the books in the world will not make you Wiccan. You must put the ideas into practice and keeping a journal of your rituals, dreams, ideas, and exercises helps to sort through the feelings and lessons you are experiencing. It is also a wonderful way to look back later and see how far you have come and revisit issues that might be recurring for you.

I know that this list is no where close to complete. There are hundreds of books available to us. Read as many as you want. My advice to you, however, is to read all of it with a discerning eye, and if something doesn’t seem right to you, then maybe it isn’t right FOR you. Enjoy your summer reading!