Customer Reviews

Witchcraft Today: An Encyclopedia of Wiccan and Neopagan Traditions

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When people think of Witches and Witchcraft, the image of a cackling crone hunched over a bubbling cauldron of poisonous brew often comes to mind. Therefore I appreciated Lewis' presentation of Witchcraft as a bonafied religion, deserving of the same recognition and respect accorded other religious belief systems.

Terms covered include words related to Neopagan traditions, holidays and rituals; Craft tools, organizations and practices; methods of divination; and much more. All information is presented in a well organized manner which is easily understood and requires no prior knowledge of Witchcraft. I found the "See Also" and "Further Reading" suggestions included at the end of each reference to be extremely helpful aids that will greatly benefit those desiring to learn more.

The thorough introduction and informative appendixes are perhaps the most valuable part of this book. These include overviews of the origin and history of contemporary Wiccan and Neopagan beliefs; a chronology detailing their development; and documents important to Wiccan and Neopagan belief systems such as the "Charge of the Goddess," "Initiation Rituals," and "Craft Laws."

Overall, this is an excellent and informative piece of work but it does have some drawbacks. There are only about 284 terms covered so I felt more terms, "important names in Witchcraft," etc. should have been included. Also, some of the entries could have used a more thorough rendering. Common inconsistencies in spelling that might prove confusing to those not familiar with the Craft, such as "Caballa" and "Kaballah," should have been addressed. Finally, I feel the book is a bit pricey.

Although I wouldn't rely on Witchcraft Today as a main reference book on Wicca and Neopaganism, it would make a great companion to another reference book such as The Encyclopedia of Witches and Witchcraft by Rosemary Ellen Guiley.