Kate West is a well-known UK author and practicing witch of over 30 years. This book first released in the early 2000’s and is still a relevant and great handbook for those interested in the craft. Whether you are a beginner or someone looking to brush up on their skills, this book has something for everyone. This edition is now a more compact size measuring at about 6 inches by 8.5 inches. If you are like me, I always have a book with me in my purse, car, or backpack. This new size fits much easier for the witch on the go or on your bookshelf.
Not all those who are called to this path are luckily enough to find a mentor or coven to learn from. The Real Witches’ Handbook fills the void as a teacher and is written in a way that is easy to understand and well presented. The book is broken down into nine chapters that covers witchcraft myths, witchcraft reality, moon worship, the eight sabbats, becoming a witch, magic, spellcraft and herb lore, out of the broom closet, and getting in touch. The book also follows up with a terms and definitions and further reading list at the end.
Witches are very popular in pop culture and entertainment at the moment, however the myths and creative license are not necessarily true to life.
The author starts the reader off with many of the misconceptions and myths on witchcraft and explains the reality of witchcraft. She covers the basics of wiccan beliefs, the sabbats and meanings, terms and tools and more. It’s a great introduction for those needing a witchcraft 101 without access to a formal teacher. Her writing style flows smoothly and the reader can feel as though she is sitting next to them teaching.
The Real Witches’ Handbook is a great starter book for the beginner witch that can be used for reference time and time again. Once the new witch feels they have a good grasp of the basics, they might want to check out the additional works by Kate West including The Real Witches’ Craft for advanced magickal techniques!
~review by Amber Barnes
Author: Kate West
Llewellyn Publications, 2018
pp. 208, $16.99
