Encyclopedia of Wicca & Witchcraft
ThisA-Ztitle describes the contemporary Wicca and witchcraft traditions. Many different groups (Black Forest Clan, Blue Star Wicca,Church of the World Tree)have entries ranging from a few paragraphs to a couple of two-columned pages. Prominent figures from the history of witchcraft also have entries, as do contemporary writers and practitioners. A number of the writers who are covered have been published by Llewellyn Publications, which is almost inevitable given Llewellyn's prominence in the publishing of occult and New Age material. Entries describing the origins of various traditions and certain historical controversies within the Wicca and witchcraft community strive to be fair to all sides, even to outside agencies that persecuted practitioners.This is a work by a believer for believers, although it has something to offer those outside the various traditions who seek to understand them. It describes various practices (although it does not offer detailed spells and instructions) and the significance of certain animals, plants, and objects. All of the descriptions are specific to their Wicca and witchcraft significance. Mythological characters, especially from British and Celtic mythology, are described, as are some deities and legendary figures from classical mythology who are significant in Wicca and witchcraft traditions. Appendixes provide "Classic Wiccan Verses" and lists of relevant periodicals, organizations, and merchants.This volume would be most useful to a public library that serves an active Wicca and witchcraft community or an academic library with an inclusive special interest. Those libraries that need a more general reference would probably do better withThe Encyclopedia ofWitches and Witchcraft [RBB Mr 1 00] by Rosemary Guiley, which is available in paperback for the same price.RBBCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved