This is a small book with big impact. In nine short chapters, Savage covers the basics like what it means to be on the Celtic path as a witch, color associations (minimally) elements, spirit, tools and more.
The writing style is easy to read. The tone is conversational and friendly. Yet it is filled with wisdom. At the beginning of the book she states "Witchcraft is about power that comes from within…" (p1) and "When I say I am a witch, I'm saing I harness the energies around and within me to instigate change." (p4). This shows a deep understanding of the craft and how it is mastered.
Savage discusses how our emotions - even those most people consider negative - assist us in moving forward. At the same time she reminds us we are part of the bigger picture.
It's a short book so some of her descriptions are a bit short - like the moon phases. However, she's accurate from the perspective she takes. She makes the assumption people are energized by the full moon but not everyone is. She does state this is how she reacts to the moon phases so she lets people know there are no right ways to react just your way. Along with her discussion on the moon phases, she discusses how to use your energy during the phase to enhance y our magical practices.
In her color chapter she only covers black, white, and red because these are Celtic related. While this will not provide comprehensive symbols for colors, it focuses on the Celtic aspect of colors.
Savage starts every chapter with a Celtic Triad. This is a saying which goes along with the material she is discussing. For instance, chapter 7 (pg 59) states "Celtic Triad: There are three things that are never at rest in anyone: the heart in working, the breath in moving, and the soul in purposing." This chapter addresses the symbols of tools and how they work as well as more esoteric things like binding.
Savage has taken a complex topic and boiled it down to its basic tenets. She provides the reader with a pleasant and easy to read book which provides information and wisdom. Each page offers a connection to Celtic witchcraft as well as wisdom the reader needs to consider as they work their way through the book. This may be a little book but it packs a punch.
~review by Eileen Troemel
Author: Mabh Savage
Moon Books, 2016
