Customer Reviews

The Book of Vodou

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

The author has done a great job with this visual ride through a unique culture. The book is written with the uninitiated in mind. The text doesn't delve too deep into the religion to lose the reader, but it conveys a rich and colorful tapestry of Voodou art and culture. If I had to pick a sub-title for this book, it would be "The Picture Book of Voodou" If you would like to round out the breath-taking visuals of this book with a deeper look at the religion, then I also recommend "Secrets of Voodoo"

I do have to say, that this little book, pretty much clarifies and explains the traditions that we practice in Haiti. I am an Hougan for about 11 years, and I do have to say that this book is good. My entire family practices Voudu from Haiti(yes I am haitian) and despite the size of the book, it gives a pretty good overview of Voudu in Haiti. For the average person, this book doesn't explain too much, and doesn't explain too little. For me, it's just perfect. I showed this book to many elders in the faith, and they too agreed that this book is pretty reasonable. I do have to say that reading from a book, isn't the same thing as experiencing it in real life. But this book gives the reader a pretty clear picture of our religion. So for those who are contemplating into buying this book, I recommend it....Aibobo.

I am happy with the book. The pictures in it are absolutely beautiful, especially the art work that is displayed. The text is very well written and easy to understand as well. (There is also a thurough glossary contained in the book)

However, i was looking (expecting) a book that contained more information on particular spells that could easily be applied
to everyday life, and it didn't quite provide that on the level i wanted.

The information about the Lwa was well written and quite inspirational. It didn't touch too much on offering's to the Lwa though, or invocations.

Overall, it was a good book, just not quite what i was looking for, but an excellent addition to my VouDou Library.

Leah Gordon's photographs are beautiful and her commentary, for such a small book, captures the essence of Vodou quite well. Not a spellbook, not a book of practical advice and usage of Vodou, not a book with exercises you can use to help you really understand the religion (for all of the latter I recommend VODOU SHAMAN by Ross Heaven), more an overview of what Vodou is about written for people who are unfamiliar with it - and illustrated very nicely.
It occurs to me actually that both of these books (The Book of Vodou and Vodou Shaman) are really well written for a Western audience and probably a very good starting point if you want to know more about this fascinating spiritual practice.

This is an excellent resource for people just starting out in the religion. Highly recommended for its pictures/graphics AND content. A must have for any vodou library....

For such a little book, it is quite informative.I bought a copy when it was first published around 10 years ago & found myself reading & referring to it many many times. I've had an interest in Vodou for many years & like some that didn't grow up in Haiti or anyplace where Vodou is present, "The Book Of Vodou" is a great introduction.
This book's is a very appealing glimpse into a beautiful religion that is often misunderstood. It has great photographs throughout & is straight & to the point about the origins & history of Vodou from West Africa all the way up to the present day without information overload.
I have been a practioner of "The Arts" for many years, as well as a historian & there's not one negative thing I can say about this book. It's one of my favourite books on Vodou & in fact, I'm on my fourth copy!
If you any interest in Vodou, start with this book! You will not be disappointed.

I made the mistake of selling this book. No other book could replace the void. This little book provides alot of knowledge. I will hold on to this book for a very long time. I really enjoy learning about the unknown. Marvelous.

This was the first book about Haitian Vopdou that I ever bought and I still use it as one of my primary reference works. It's easy to read and very well researched.

I just loved this book from the very first glance. First, the photos are good and easy to look at. The information about the featured Loas are pretty precise. The exercises inside anyone can do.........all and all I am pleased with this book and do recommend it
Ms. Amber