Sabbats: A Witch's Approach to Living the Old Ways

The history isn't 100%, but I didn't buy it for that...just for the suggested activities. They're all there, but I suggest digging into whatever historical context the book provides because some of it isn't all there.

I have owned this book for years and find myself referencing it on a nearly ritualistic basis (no pun intended). McCoy does a magnificent job covering all 8 Sabbats, including the origins, histories (pagan or otherwise), the symbolism of each, diety relationships, and even ways to celebrate each holiday (menus, recipes, craft ideas/instuctions, etc). And she does it without the mundane, "this-is-the-most-serious-thing-you'll-read" voice that so many Pagan guides can't seem to avoid. It's easy to flip through to find the correct Sabbat, and just as easy to skim the chapter for the exact item you're looking for (recipes, craft instructions, symbols, etc). Even after years of owning this book and re-reading it again and again, I still find myself referencing it for celebrating the Sabbats more than any other book I own. The absolute best.

This book contains lots of material on the sabbats, complete with recipies, fun crafts for the pagan family, and sabbat rituals for both coven and solitary. If you're past the 101 stage, just ignore the those sections of the book, or read them anyway like I did, just to see Edain's point of veiw.It's an exellent book, for those wanting more background info on the sabbats, but most of it can be found in other books aswell.Despite that I knew most of it already, I still found something I could use and did'nt know about, plus it contains a wonderfulstory/guided meditation that, just by reading it made me feelwarm and happy.I look forward to read other books by Edain:o)

I amin the process of buying all of the books mentioned in a book called The Well Read Witch. This book is one of the books listed as a must-read for Witches. I wholeheartedly agree with that and list the reasons why this is such a good book in my review. This book is full of lots of ideas on how to celebrate each Sabbat. I can't imagine someone not finding at least one idea they like a lot for each Sabbat! I like the way she includes recepes in most of her books! My coven uses this book as a starting point in planning our Sabbat rituals! As always, her writing style is readable and enjoyable. Edain McCoy is a very reassuring writer for a new Witch to read who might still have some lingering fears or misconceptions about The Craft.

The Sabbats are pagan and witches' most important celebrations. Pagan tribes and witches' covens celebrate the Sabbats according to local tradition. It is difficult for novices and solitary practitioners to learn Sabbat history and rituals. Ms. McCoy's excellent book fills this void.The author addresses the Sabbats from a broad pagan perspective. She discusses the history of each Sabbat, and relates each Sabbat to ethnic celebrations held globally. Ms. McCoy provides both solitary and group rituals for each Sabbat, and explains each ritual's meaning. She describes activities, recipes, and crafts for each Sabbat, and describes natural items appropriate to each Sabbat's celebration.Ms. McCoy provides several useful appendices. Appendix I describes how One can construct their own rituals. Appendix II describes elements of spell construction. Appendix III is a *very* comprehensive glossary which itself is a valuable reference. Appendix VI lists items (e.g., activities, foods, plants, and symbols) appropriate to each Sabbat.I recommend this book as a companion volume to Ms. McCoy's excellent beginner's book "Inside A Witches' Coven". Together, these two books provide good insight into what beginners should expect if they choose to join a pagan tribe or witches' coven.

Edain McCoy has been criticized, and fairly, for her lack of scholarship. So be it. But in this volume, she makes atonement for all. Here are the ancient ways, for new practitioners, presented simply and honestly, for all who are curious about the ancient ways (where did the Yule log originate anyway?). Rituals, customs, and even receipes for every major holiday in the pagan year are represented. A thoughtful and delightful book that is of use for all seeking to reclaim the old ways.