Nan or anyone who knows about "such things"...
I know this is a bit off topic, but I need a little help getting my Bestest friend in the whole world a specific Christmas gift. She is intersted in the Wiccan arts and practices and/or becoming a witch (I'm not sure exactly what the difference is in someone who is a witch or practice wicca or if there is a difference). She asked me to buy her a book on the topic, one that may even have spells, because she knows her mother won't (her mom's of strong Catholic background, and does not want anything sacriligious in her home). When we move in together next year, she hopes to be able to practice this more deeply/fully.My question is, does anyone know of a specific book or books that I could get her? I thought if anyone would know, it would be the "Goddess of Darkness" Nanaea, or Phyllis, or Selwyn, all who have in the past shown knowledge in this field. Anyone else that has any ideas that responds would be of great help!
vote up1vote down

Replies

I went to Barnes and Noble Bookstore...and I got two books. I could not find Simple Wicca as you suggested, Nan, but that's okay because apparently she already has that book!
One of the books I gave her gives a very descriptive explanation on what wicca is, and the different kinds and practices of each, but I can't remember the author right now, and the other is a book on planting a garden for herbs and plants to use in spells, incantations, rituals,practices,etc. I thought she'd enjoy it because she already has started an herb garden outside her window, and we had talked about planting a garden in a window box when we get our appartment together.
I must admit that as a girl I always intrigued with the idea of being a "witch" and casting spells, but the more I read (I am currently borrowing the Simple Wicca book by Michele Morgan) the more I find and like about wicca as an actual religion (for that's what it is-probably the oldest) and can see myself on the path to becoming a practicing wiccan, or at least becoming knowledgable in this field. My friend and I have decided to travel the path together, sharing what we learn and in time decide if it's something we beleive, and what path is best for us as an individual. Anyway, thank you, Nan and Phyllis for helping in the course of finding the materials we need to start learning and understanding where to go from here.
vote up1vote down
It sounds as though you and your friend are going to enjoy furthering your research into Wicca. :) You're in Florida, right? Perhaps Phyllis can recommend a group near you which you can join. I wouldn't recommend you becoming a Satanist, because Satanism isn't for everyone. And also, Satanists are born -- not converted. :)Best to both of you! Whatever's cool for you, pursue it. :)-- Nanaea
vote up1vote down
'ColeOn the Mothers Magic Pagan Community web page, the forums section (http://216.118.112.81/forums), there was a discussion about books that the members would recommend and another about books that should carry a caveat. If you want, I'll try to get the exact addresses for them (I need to reprint the lists anyway).The members post quite a lot of things concerning different aspects of paganism and a couple of things concerning mysticism (one of the members is a halachic Jew who has just started studying "kosher kaballah". :shrug:)Another good thing about this site is that you don't have to become a member to lurk, just to post.Phyllis (aka Sidhe Uaine or Gaia Euphoria)Aside to Nanaea: the resident satanist over there resigned her membership and left no forwarding addie :bigcry:
vote up1vote down
Just checked out the site, and came across somebody posting about how some ignoramus mistook her pentagram for a Magen David, and this one was actually asking if the pentagram is a Jewish symbol. (Oy...) I love the reply another poster gave her:"No, the pentagram isn't used in Judaism. For some reason, people mistake the pentagram for the Star of David, which has six points. I've never understood that."A girlfirend of mine was once asked about her pentagram, and the inquirer asked if she was Jewish. My friend, annoyed, replied, "Yeah, I'm a Jew in training. I haven't earned my sixth point yet."LOL!-- Nanaea
vote up1vote down
THAT IS HILARIOUS! ppl these days though... yeash :):o) :P ;-) :D O:-)
vote up1vote down
"Goddess of Darkness"? I *like* that. :)I'm not Wiccan, being a Satanist -- and modern Satanism is really more of a philosophy than an actual religion.But I can recommend a couple of books on Wicca which I think your friend may enjoy and which her mother may not even find too objectionable.The first is *The Sprial Dance* by Starhawk. This book has been revised to be more inclusive of men than it was when it was first published, and it still remains one of the essential handbooks to have emerged from the Wiccan movement of 1960s and '70s.http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0062516329/qid=1008522373/sr=1-1/ref=sr_1_2_1/002-3345803-5364004The second is a *beautifully* bound little book I picked up not too long ago, titled *Simple Wicca* by Michele Morgan. This book not only clearly presents the basics, but also defines the differences between the various "traditions" (or, styles) of Wicca, which can be confusing to the uninitiated. It may help your friend to decide which of these traditions she'll want to further explore.http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1573241997/qid%3D1008523025/ref%3Dsr%5F11%5F0%5F1/002-3345803-5364004Either book makes a lovely Solstice gift. :)-- Nanaea
vote up1vote down
Thank you so much!I found four stores in my area that sell wiccan books and other "witchy" things. I'm going shopping on Tuesday after I call around tomorrow to see if they have those books. I'd really much rather pick out the book from a store than order it online. It feels more personal. The help is appreciated though!
vote up1vote down
You're welcome! And......try the mainstream bookstores, as well. I found *Simple Wicca* in Borders Books & Music.-- Nanaea
vote up1vote down
typo...That should've been: *The Spiral Dance*.
vote up1vote down