Principles of Wicca

This is probably THE best introduction to Wicca. Crowley is an experienced Alexandrian and Gardnerian initiate and knows what she is talking about. This is the closest she's come to writing one of the "how-to" syle of books, yet this has a depth of knowledge most of those don't have. In addition, it's small size and price makes it perfect for classes and study groups. I've used it myself as the text for introductory courses and in private lessons.

I enjoyed this book immensly; it was soo jam-packed with information and it was also well-written to the extent where anyone and everyone could grasp ahold of the topic and fully observe and understand it. Vivianne Crowley is an excellent Wiccan author and has a true gift when it comes to describing and detailing things. This NEEDS to have a home on your bookshelf if you're even at all interested in Wicca and Witchcraft!!

A very detailed book describing the intricate ways of the religion in a very plain and straight forward manner. A must have book for the serious practitioner!

)0( Reviewed by Lady Rowan of the Midwest )0(For those who are new to Wicca or who are simply just curious about it, Vivianne Crowley provides a straightforward, easy-to-read book that covers a definition of what Wicca is, how Wiccans perceive the Universe, the magickal realm, the gods, sabbat rites and a section on groups and contacts for readers who want further information.If you're looking for a detailed, complex treatise on Wicca and its history, this won't be the book for you. But if you're searching for a concise handbook that defines basic tenets and beliefs of Wicca in its purest form, then you may want to add this book to your list.In clear terms, Crowley describes who today's witches are, more about Wicca's origins and what covens are. Neophytes will find a simple diagram of a pentagram with each element described along with a simple visualization to assist with contacting the elements in nature.Crowley also gives a simple explanation of the Wheel of the Year and Wicca's eight major festivals, as well as the remaining four festivals. A description of appropriate altar decorations, colors and the type of magick appropriate to each festival is provided, as well.In the section that covers the magickal realm, Crowley discusses what natural magic is, who does magic and how along with instruction on how to successfully use visualization, feel etheric energy and open the chakras, or special energy centers in the body.Phases of the Goddess and how She relates to the pentagram makes for an interesting read, as does the relationship of the God to the pentagram, too. Exercises to assist with attuning to the Goddess and the God help readers become more familiar with their relationship to the Divine.Finally, Crowley's chapters on creating ritual and the sabbat rites pull the book together in a smooth, informative way. For those who wish to go further and learn more, the author also provides additional resources and contact information.Overall, Crowley's book isn't as detailed and complex as some might want to read - but if you're just testing the waters of Wicca and have a need for a guide that will explain the basics in a reader-friendly way, PRINCIPLES OF WICCA will deliver a concrete foundation upon which to build your beginning path.Rating: Five broomsticks (out of five possible)

My coven bought this book when we were just starting out, and it is still the most helpful book in our library! I recommend it to anyone interested in becoming a witch, or even interested in wicca.