The Modern Guide to Witchcraft (Modern Witchcraft)

by Skye Alexander

[Jo]

ETA: I want to edit this review to say that my thoughts have changed regarding this book on reflection. I do think it could have been worded better, as it does feel like anyone can dip in and out of other people's cultures for their own practice, but it is giving an overview of different aspects of witchcraft, depending on your own path. So of course it covers shamanism and Voudon, and working with various deities, because everyone from all cultures and traditions can be witches, and that information could be vital in introducing them to their path. It could definitely be worded differently, though.

I originally had mixed feelings about The Modern Guide to Witchcraft by Skye Alexander. It's very thorough and provides a lot of information about the history of witchcraft, background into various types of witchcraft, how to create sacred space and cast a circle, the importance of an altar, lots of info regarding the Goddess and God, and deities, the various tools a witch may use and why, plus quite a lot of various spells for you to try out.

But it also made me slightly uncomfortable in that I came to realise that some witches can be quite culturally appropriative. It talks about how you can invoke Gods and Goddesses from various cultures, and it discussed practicing voudon and shamanism, and other practices belonging to other cultures. While learning about them was interesting, I was a little disturbed by the idea that any witch can just pick and choose from other cultures what speaks to them. And then there's the fact that while it says a witch can be secular, and not believe in in the Goddess, God and deities - which is where I'm at - they were all involved in pretty much every aspect of witchcraft discussed. I've done more reading since reading this book, so I know I can adapt things as needed for myself, but it did feel very rooted in a particular kind of path, and so I kind of felt like I didn't quite fit.

Saying all that, I have since dipped in and out of The Modern Guide to Witchcraft for certain information I want to include in my grimoire, and it is hugely helpful, generally. It's definitely a good, thorough introduction. If you can read with a mind of ignoring everything to do with cultural appropriation and choosing to practice differently, then I'd recommend it. But if you're likely to be hurt by it, then maybe steer clear.