Alanna Kali is an astrologer, numerologist, and pioneer spirit that loves to explore life through the lens of depth psychology. She has a passion for studying the humanities and social trends. Her academic work is centered upon reuniting body, mind, and spirit through eco-psychology. She loves reading, spending time in nature, and travel.
Mystic’s Imaginarium Oracle Deck by Jen McCarty, with illustrations by Stephanie Wicker-Campbell, is a captivating and insightful tool for deepening one’s metaphysical understanding of the world, specifically through the teachings of Neville Goddard. Creator Jen McCarty, who also published Little Book of Neville Goddard Quotes, has dedicated herself to sharing the impactful wisdom of Goddard. This unique deck is comprised of cards that offer oracle insights based on Goddard’s teaching, further illuminating his spiritual insights and presenting the one(s) most relevant to the reader at any given moment.
“If you commit to working with this oracle deck, you will grasp Neville’s core foundational teachings, and they will assist you in transforming your limited beliefs, becoming one with your higher self, and manifesting the life of your greatest imaginings.”1
One of Goddard’s core beliefs was that human imagination is God, and therefore, individuals can manifest their desires into reality through the power of thought and belief. This belief is reflected in the title of this deck, Mystic’s Imaginarium Oracle Deck, which awakens the subconscious and helps readers to remember the potency of their mind.
The deck’s artwork is truly a feast for the eyes, which quite literally appear in quite a few cards’ imagery. Stephanie Wicker-Campbell’s illustrations are filled with vibrant colors and intricate details, each card telling its own story through a blend of mystical and fantastical themes. Blending themes of pyramids, the cosmos, and natural landscapes into surreal art, this deck opens the portals of the imagination. The imagery is not only visually appealing but also deeply symbolic, inviting users to delve deeper into their subconscious and explore the messages within.
Goddard’s teachings are vast and wonderful, yet can sometimes feel antiquated or hard to understand. McCarty’s insights based on his work, on the other hand, are very relatable to the modern day reader and serve a wonderful stepping-stone for those who seek to learn more about Goddard.
Within the guidebook, McCarty has crafted each entry with the love and care of a true spiritual devotee, offering interpretations of Goddard’s teaching that are both profound and accessible. In reading her interpretations of the cards, it’s clear McCarty really reflected deeply on Goddard’s messages, integrated them on a soul level, and thoughtfully interpreted them into oracle form for the reader. Her writing encourages introspection and personal growth, making the deck a valuable tool for metaphysical exploration.
For each entry, there’s the image of the card, a quote from Goddard, McCarty’s interpretation of the card, and occasionally a one-sentence message of empowerment.
For instance the first card I pulled from this deck was Awaken to Christ Consciousness. McCarty writes how this card “boldly asserts that Christ cannot be confined within the boundaries of historical records or external rituals. Instead, it assets that the true revelation of Christ occurs when we recognize the transformative potential of our own imagination.”2 McCarty recommends visualizing one of my greatest heart’s desires after pulling this card, as I’m in the process of a huge transformation that brings more of my higher self into the physical material world. The entry further states:
“When it appears in a reading, it serves as a powerful reminder of our true identity. We are reminded that we are potent creative forces – fractals of divine source energy.”3
And quite honestly, the reading was spot-on! I do feel like I’m going through a metamorphosis, and this card was a wonderful reminder to tap into my spiritual nature more to guide the process. I also enjoyed how McCarty mentioned connecting with Christ outside the bounds of history or ritual, as I’ve grown away from my Catholic spiritual origins yet still feel like there’s a lot of spiritual potential in forming a deeper relationship with Christ consciousness.
One of the best features of this deck is its versatility. It can be used for daily inspiration, meditation, or as a supplement to other practices like manifestation or creative projects. The cards encourage users to feel confident in their spiritual nature, prompting them to examine outdated beliefs and consciously choose to embrace their higher self by aligning their mind with God.
Overall, Mystic’s Imaginarium Oracle Deck is a testament to the collaborative creativity of McCarty and Wicker-Campbell. This oracle deck offers a harmonious balance of visual artistry and spiritual insight, making it a wonderful companion for anyone seeking to enhance their connection with the mystical aspects of life. Whether you’re an experienced oracle reader or a curious spiritual explorer, Mystic’s Imaginarium Oracle Deck is sure to inspire and guide you on your path by opening you to the wisdom of mystic Neville Goddard. This deck is a beautiful blend of spiritual guidance and artistic expression, making it a unique addition to any collection.
Alanna Kali is an astrologer, numerologist, and pioneer spirit that loves to explore life through the lens of depth psychology. She has a passion for studying the humanities and social trends. Her academic work is centered upon reuniting body, mind, and spirit through eco-psychology. She loves reading, spending time in nature, and travel.
Creatrix Awakened Oracle Deck: Fierce Feminine Frequency Leaders by Shannon Van Den Berg, with illustrations by Stephanie Wicker-Campbell, is a captivating and empowering tool for delving into the realms of divine feminine energy. Designed to support “awakening leaders and visionary creators”4, this potent deck communicates frequencies to awaken, inspire, and support the change-makers of our times as they expand into new possibilities of becoming. The guidebook reads:
“Within these cards, you will find facets of leadership, embodiment, and liberation. Each card is infused with ancient and cosmic codes, designed to activate you and guide you through initiation, breakthroughs, deaths and rebirths.”5
This deck consists of absolutely beautifully illustrated cards, each one portraying a different archetype or aspect of the fierce feminine spirit. Stephanie Wicker-Campbell’s artwork is both vibrant and evocative, capturing the essence of each theme with bold colors and intricate details. Her illustrations serve as a visual meditation, drawing the user into a deeper connection with the card’s message. There’s a beauty and intensity within each card, showcasing the spiritual fierceness of the divine feminine.
Accompanying the deck is a guidebook authored by Shannon Van Den Berg, which provides insightful interpretations and practical guidance for each card. There are three types of cards in this deck: Activation, Wisdom, and Embodiment. Activation cards focus on sacred disruptor archetypes that are essential to the awakening process. Wisdom cards provide guidance about one’s soul mission. And the Embodiment cards offer insight of the divine feminine in the form of goddesses, priestesses, and archetypes.
The Wisdom cards are very unique because they were personally transmitted by sixteen featured authors who contributed to this deck. As a result, each entry in the guidebook differs a bit, depending on the message that came through for the featured author. In the back of the guidebook, there’s a profile on each of the sixteen authors, sharing their biography and website to learn more about their work.
For the rest of the cards–Activation and Embodiment–Van Den Berg’s writing is both accessible and profound, offering users a blend of ancient wisdom and modern spiritual practices to enhance their readings. The messages encourage self-reflection and personal growth, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to strengthen their intuition and embrace their personal power. For each card there is a description of the meaning, along with a journal prompt, practice to do, and mantra.
The first card I pulled from this deck was Lineage Disruptor. I immediately resonated with this card, as I’m currently living with family and feel myself doing deep ancestral work, ranging from studying ancestral astrology to having the tough conversations about positive changes our family can make. It feels exhausting at times, but this card was instant confirmation that I am making a difference. The guidebook description for this card reads:
“This card symbolizes your sacred offerings for the generations to come, marking a significant era where strides are taken to disentangle and free lineages from antiquated and harmful patterns. As a lineage disruptor, you play a pivotal role in this transformative journey, standing at the crossroads of ancestral clear and the creation of a heart-centered path.”6
This is one of the activation cards, so I feel like it was a blessing on this path, further initiating me into the current spiritual path I am pursuing. I really enjoyed further exploring the energy of the card through the journal prompts, one of which reads “What ancestral patterns do you feel called to disrupt?”7 My journal session brought me a lot of clarity about my intention in communicating with my family and ancestors. I’ve been doing the practice every morning too, and I feel like this meditation is further awakening a new awareness in my energy field.
One of the standout features of this oracle deck is its focus on inclusivity and diversity. The cards depict women from various cultural backgrounds, celebrating the universal nature of feminine energy and leadership. This thoughtful representation makes the deck relatable to a wide audience, encouraging users to see themselves reflected in the cards.
Another thing I like about this deck is how the range of different cards makes for insightful readings. While there are suggested spreads, readers are definitely able to find their own style in working with the deck too. I’ve connected with the cards by doing single-card pulls daily and doing more intricate spreads. There’s a lot of energy coming through, but I feel like each time the messages easily blend together and are transmitted with clarity and precision.
Overall, the Creatrix Awakened Oracle Deck is a powerful tool for anyone seeking inspiration and empowerment from the divine feminine. Whether a seasoned oracle reader or a beginner, this deck offers a rich tapestry of wisdom and artistry that invites exploration and personal transformation. The creators–Van Den Berg, Wicker-Campbell, and their featured authors–have truly creatively captured incredible frequencies within this deck, opening the energetic pathway through their artwork and writing to share them with readers all over the world.
This is a gorgeous deck to come back to time and time again, as the activation and potential for growth are endless within each cycle of life. I love reading this deck and tuning into the powerful divine feminine energy it activates within myself, knowing there’s countless others all over the global also sharing in global awakening and healing taking place.
Alanna Kali is an astrologer, numerologist, and pioneer spirit that loves to explore life through the lens of depth psychology. She has a passion for studying the humanities and social trends. Her academic work is centered upon reuniting body, mind, and spirit through eco-psychology. She loves reading, spending time in nature, and travel.
Haunted Ever After by Jen DeLuca is a charming and whimsical novel that beautifully blends romance and the supernatural. Set against the backdrop of a quaint small town–Boneyard Keys, FL–the story follows copywriter turned recent homeowner Cassie, who finds herself entangled in a series of mysterious and spooky events that challenge her perceptions of love and reality in her new town. She definitely got more than she bargained for when she realizes the house she just bought comes with its own ghost!
When Cassie’s power outlets unexplainably won’t charge her laptop, she heads out to find a place to work. Finding refuge in one of the town’s local cafes, Hallowed Grounds, she quickly finds herself growing affectionate for both the owner, Nick, and the perfect iced hazelnut latte he makes. As an ancestor of the founding families of Boneyard Keys, Nick has grown up among the ghosts of the town. In fact, he’s the only one in his immediate family who inherited the ability to commune with the ghosts, something he takes very seriously and reveres.
It’s a bumpy ride as skeptical Cassie begins to accept there are actuallyghosts in Boneyard Keys, even with Nick’s gentle encouragement to get to know the local ghosts. While the ghost Nick lives with, Elmer, is quite encouraging of him pursuing Cassie, Cassie’s resident ghost, Sarah, seems to have something against Nick. Repeatedly when Nick comes over, Sarah uses her method of communication, poetry magnet tiles on Cassie’s refrigerator, to say “get him out”.
While the ghosts give them the runaround, Cassie and Nick must decide what their futures will look like: Can Cassie learn to embrace the unique lifestyle in Boneyard Keys or will the ghosts be too much for her? Is Nick ready to let the past go and give love a chance, even if it means potentially being hurt again? Lucky for these two, there’s plenty of support characters, but human and ghost, to give advice, lend a hand, and help Cassie and Nick discover what they need to in order to determine if things will work out.
DeLuca’s writing shines with its warm, engaging style, and she skillfully crafts characters that are both relatable and endearing. Cassie’s experience in Boneyard Keys is both emotional and entertaining, as she navigates her way through unexpected hauntings and budding romance. While Nick’s path to opening his heart is simply swoon-worthy.
I really enjoyed DeLuca’s knack for capturing the essence of small-town life. It adds a vibrant and authentic flavor to the narrative, making the setting feel like a character in its own right with its own charm. Plus, readers get a real feel for the other residents of Boneyard Keys, making them want to learn more about their backstory and see what’s to come. I already can foresee another TWO budding romance between side characters in this book. And since this is the first Boneyard Keys book, we know there’s more to come! As someone who enjoys emotionally investing in book series, I am already quite excited to return back to Boneyard Keys for another story down the line!
One of the standout elements of the book that made it a great romantic read for me is the balance of humor and heart. DeLuca manages to infuse the story with witty dialogue and laugh-out-loud moments, which are perfectly contrasted with deeper themes of self-discovery and acceptance. The supernatural elements are woven seamlessly into the plot, providing just the right amount of intrigue without overshadowing the central love story. Plus, there’s a lot of fun ghost puns!
Overall, Haunted Ever After is a delightful read that will appeal to fans of romantic comedies with a supernatural twist. DeLuca has crafted a tale that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, leaving readers with a sense of warmth and satisfaction. Whether you’re a fan of romance, a lover of ghostly tales, or just in need of a feel-good story, this novel is sure to enchant and delight.
Alanna Kali is an astrologer, numerologist, and pioneer spirit that loves to explore life through the lens of depth psychology. She has a passion for studying the humanities and social trends. Her academic work is centered upon reuniting body, mind, and spirit through eco-psychology. She loves reading, spending time in nature, and travel.
Be Like the Wind: Three Equines Channel Spiritual Light by Ellen Kohn is a uniquely enchanting exploration of the profound connections between humans and animals, specifically through the lens of equine companionship. Kohn, an experienced animal communicator, delves into the spiritual and emotional bonds that can exist between horses and their human counterparts.
“Spirit has demonstrated horse energy signifies one of the most powerful forces on the planet. In preparation for global transformation and healing, horse was chosen to mentor and guide humans…”7
The book is a blend of personal anecdotes and spiritual insights, offering readers a glimpse into the transformative power of these majestic creatures. Kohn’s writing is both heartfelt and evocative, painting vivid pictures of her experiences with the horses that have touched her life. She presents each equine not simply as an animal but as a spiritual entity capable of offering guidance and healing.
Kohn shares the journey of three horses–Billy, Monty, and Romeo–”chosen by the Equine Council to initiate a psychic connection”8 with her. This Council “represents a group of highly ascended beings who have spent many lifetimes as a horse.”9
Serving as a moderator, Kohn has woven together the messages she’s received via direct communication and vibration exchange with these horses. Portions of the book are written in the narrated form of the three horses united in energy, called The Tribune, while other parts are narratives of a singular horse sharing their wisdom in the form of conversions with Kohn. All the stories are written in first-person, facilitating a conversational and intimate reader experience.
The Tribunes offer a special metaphysics of this world that will most likely be novel to most readers. From the horses sharing their past life experiences (Romeo served King Philip in Spain during the mid-1500s!) to an exploration of what the soul is, the higher wisdom coming through the Tribune is a unique and interesting spiritual perspective. Here’s an excerpt from the chapter “Signs from Beyond the Veil” where the Tribune shares signs of spirit manifesting:
“Chills declare a Divine presence, affirming spiritual information from your helpers, guides, and angels. When chills appear in your energy field, they confirm what you believe to be true. An unambiguous feeling, chills infuse clarity into your awareness and faith.”10
Notably, some readers might find the spiritual themes to be esoteric, especially those who approach animal behavior in a scientific manner. But for those who enjoy the spiritual wisdom of animals, there’s an abundance of channeled messages focused on healing, love, and surrender to the Divine that are sure to provide inspiration and comfort.
One of the strengths of the book is Kohn’s ability to convey the subtleties of non-verbal communication. Her descriptions of the silent interactions and the shared sense of understanding between her and the horses are deeply moving and thought-provoking. This makes the book appealing not only to horse enthusiasts but also to anyone interested in spiritual growth and the interconnection between all living beings.
Overall, Be Like the Wind is a compelling read for those open to the spiritual wisdom of horses. Kohn’s passion for communicating the lessons channeled by her relationship with Billy, Monty, and Romeo is a true service to the world. This inspirational book would be a wonderful addition to the libraries of both animal lovers and spiritual seekers alike. The gentle communication style of the horses opens up hearts and brings a renewed sense of hope and faith.
Alanna Kali is an astrologer, numerologist, and pioneer spirit that loves to explore life through the lens of depth psychology. She has a passion for studying the humanities and social trends. Her academic work is centered upon reuniting body, mind, and spirit through eco-psychology. She loves reading, spending time in nature, and travel.
Lucky, who is “gifted” (even though it sometimes feels like a curse) with the ability to read people to their core when she looks in their eyes for the first time. Decades of feeling ostracized due to her ESP abilities have left Lucky quite rusty when it comes to relationships, preferring her paranormal research over the company of others.
Lucky finally has her big career break after a trail of graduate school rejections and lack of investor funds for her research. A film company hires her to be the caretaker for a house that’s deemed haunted after the previous three tenants left abruptly after being tormented in the house. Lucky is determined to make it through the whole month in the house, unraveling it’s paranormal secrets along the way to bolster her career as in the field, but her usual go-it-alone attitude begins to change though when she meets Maverick, a podcaster and show host, whose work has always been a source of inspiration and comfort to her.
Lucky finds herself simultaneously bonding with the house, which develops an affinity for her, and her co-workers on the show, especially Maverick and his daughter Rebel. Meanwhile, she’s also trying to get a read on the owner of the home, Xander, to see just what’s going on here. Managing love and work can be hard as Lucky finds out, and it’s up to her to confront her past to choose the future she truly desires.
Claire Kann’s writing is both witty and heartfelt, offering a delightful blend of humor and emotion. She skillfully weaves together themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery, all set against the backdrop of spooky yet charming haunted locations. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with Lucky’s journey of finding herself, building her career, and trying to open up to love in the process feelings genuine and engaging.
The supernatural elements add a unique layer to the story, providing both comedic relief and poignant moments. It’s a testament to Kann’s ability to blend genres seamlessly, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. As someone who loves things all paranormal, Lucky’s career ambitions and relationship with the supernatural felt authentic. There is content about the different types of paranormal phenomena and Lucky’s personal areas of focus (human-created supernatural phenomena).
Plus, the sentience of the house is really neat to experience first hand. I’ve read plenty of books where the house comes alive (The September House, Starling House) but this house’s abilities were really cool. I was fully absorbed in Lucky’s experiential process of undercovering what the house’s intentions were through the ways she managed to communicate.
Another aspect of the book that was interesting compared to other romance novels was that Lucky is asexual. While most romance books have the characters coming together in the throes of passion, in this book there was a good amount of discussion about boundaries and consent. This isn’t to say sparks weren’t flying, but I enjoyed the slower pace of there being actual open and honest dialogue around sexual expectations and preferences. I feel like it was more relatable and models what true intimacy looks like in a relationship.
For those who have ever felt the sense of being on the outside that comes with being psychic or having abilities others don’t understand, I think you’ll find Lucky quite relatable. While it’s in the genre of romance, I was moved to near tears multiple times as the book truly captures the emotional experience of what it means to have extrasensory perception that others don’t understand. From being isolated to mocked and ridiculed, it can be tough! Many of us readers have surely felt this at one point or another, so seeing Lucky find true love was especially rewarding.
Overall, Looking for Love in All the Haunted Places is a fun romance read for those who love all things supernatural. Its clever plot, endearing characters, and perfect balance of humor and heart make it a great book to curl up with this fall. I highly recommend it as a sweet, spooky read that will keep you intrigued with paranormal activity and a slow but steady relationship build-up.
Alanna Kali is an astrologer, numerologist, and pioneer spirit that loves to explore life through the lens of depth psychology. She has a passion for studying the humanities and social trends. Her academic work is centered upon reuniting body, mind, and spirit through eco-psychology. She loves reading, spending time in nature, and travel.
Winter Wellbeing: Seasonal self-care to nourish, sustain, and warm your soul by CICO Books is a delightful guide that invites readers to embrace the colder months with a sense of comfort and self-care. With tips for tending to mind, body, and soul, this book is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their winter experience by focusing on holistic wellbeing practices.
“With self-care practices, nourishing recipes, and ways to appreciate the season, this guide will help you revitalize and recharge your soul, even when it’s cold and dark outside.”11
This book is beautifully designed, with a calming aesthetic that reflects the tranquility it aims to bring into the reader’s life. The hardcover makes it perfect to keep out all season long on a coffee table or counter. The wide range of topics, from nourishing recipes to cozy crafts and mindful activities, are all tailored to help individuals find joy and warmth during the winter season, and you’ll definitely want to keep it within easy reach.
The first chapter, “Embracing the Season” focuses on how one can make the most of the cold temperatures that characterize this time of the year. This book honors the seasonal cycles and teaches ways to stay in touch with nature: walks in the cold temperatures, maintaining your circadian rhythm by getting enough sunlight, and embracing rest during the extra hours of darkness. It also suggests ways to bring the winter inside by creating a shrine, putting up decorations, and simplifying our surroundings. Recipes in this section include tea for the full moon and a mulled cider recipe for festive celebrations.
The next chapter, “Boosting Your Immune System” is extremely useful in the season of colds and viruses. It is filled with inspiration for how to get a good night’s rest to stay healthy, tea and soup recipes to keep illness at bay or overcome it quickly, and baths to soothe symptoms. I particularly liked reading about Oxymel Tonic, which uses honey and vinegar to ease respiratory issues.
To make it through the cold, dark days of winter, it becomes important to build in daily habits to keep ourselves nourished. Chapter three, “Caring for Your Body, Mind, and Soul” suggests establishing a wellbeing ritual to keep you focused on your self-care during the winter months. Breathing exercises, massage, and healthy drinks, such as Celery juice elixir and Gentle detox tea, and relaxing baths are some of the many things one can build into their wellbeing routine. My favorite part of this section is the DIY body-care product recipes for things like body whip, lip balm and face masks.
The final chapter, “Revitalizing, Recharging, and Renewing” integrates all the previous chapters, providing restorative exercise, conscious eating, healing teas, and breathing exercise to keep the winter blues away and sustain mental, emotional, and spiritual health during the winter months. All the self-care practices can be seamlessly integrated into daily life, encouraging mindfulness and reflection and fostering a sense of peace and gratitude even in the darker, colder months.
Overall, Winter Wellbeing is a wonderful resource for anyone looking to enhance their winter self-care routine. Its thoughtful blend of recipes, activities, and lifestyle tips makes it a perfect companion for those wanting to embrace the season with warmth and positivity. Whether you’re looking to maintain your physical health or find new ways to nurture your soul, this book offers a wealth of inspiration.
Alanna Kali is an astrologer, numerologist, and pioneer spirit that loves to explore life through the lens of depth psychology. She has a passion for studying the humanities and social trends. Her academic work is centered upon reuniting body, mind, and spirit through eco-psychology. She loves reading, spending time in nature, and travel.
Seasons of the Witch: Mabon Oracle by Lorraine Anderson and Juliet Diaz is a captivating addition to the Season of the Witch series, particularly for those who are drawn to the spiritual and mystical aspects of autumn. Filled with fall foliage and scenes of the harvest season, the card in this deck encapsulates the bountiful feelings of this season
The authors describe in their introduction how the cards in this deck “prioritize spiritual self-care, specifically care around establishing boundaries, surrendering to changes and letting go of what no longer serves.”1 This focus of shedding the old and nurturing oneself reminds me of the trees during the autumn season, dropping their leaves and going inward to make it through the dark winter season. There’s even “Falling leaves spread” the authors share too, along with other ones such as “Molasses spread” and “Maple tree spread”.
The guidebook that accompanies the deck is comprehensive and thoughtfully written. Anderson and Diaz have done an excellent job of providing clear interpretations and practical guidance for each card. For every entry, they share keywords, a one-sentence message, and then a two-page explanation of the card’s meaning.
The explanations all begin with “Your higher self chose this card because…”. I really liked this style! First, it made me feel connected to my spiritual self while reading. And second, it really delves into the “why” this card came through when it did and what it’s meant to be pointing out in that moment.
In the week leading up to Mabon, I pulled a card from this deck every day. Four times, including on actual Mabon, I got the card Reaper. It was one of those instances when it was loud and clear a message was coming through. The one-sentence message for this card reads:
“For the birth of something new to manifest the death of something holding you back is inevitable.”12
The keywords associated with the cards are “endings, sudden change, unhealthy attachments”13. It felt like I was really being asked to take stock of patterns in my life and make adjustments, even if it felt hard or like I wasn’t ready to do things a different (and more likely healthier) way. I appreciated how this deck doesn’t sugar coat things and focuses on both the dark and light aspects of the messages we need to hear for our own spiritual growth.
This balancing of light and dark, reflective of the autumn equinox is one of the best parts of this deck. This time of year is traditionally associated with gratitude, balance, and reflection, and the cards in this deck beautifully encapsulate these themes. The richer tones of this deck highlight the darkness that is beginning to descend while also honoring the joys that the light has brought, such as healthy crops to make stews, brews, and all the other autumn delights.
Some of the cards in this deck include Campfire, Corn maze, Cranberries, Foraging, Mead and wine, Pomegranate, Queen of the Dead, Scarecrow, Tea magick, Whiskey, and Wool. Just skimming through the cards and looking at the images on them gives me the fall feels–cozy moments, crispy air, and lots of community gatherings.
The artwork on the cards, created by Tijana Lukovic, is rich, evocative, and deeply resonant with the energy of the season. Each card is a work of art that invites the reader to delve into the symbolism and meaning of the card’s title. The dark hues balanced by the light perfectly capture the equilibrium of night and day that the autumn equinox marks.
One of the strengths of Seasons of the Witch: Mabon Oracle is its ability to inspire introspection and personal growth. The cards encourage users to explore their inner worlds, reflect on their lives, and embrace the cycles of change and renewal. This makes the deck not only a tool for divination but also a valuable resource for personal development and spiritual practice. Whether a reader dose a one-card pull daily or decorates an altar with the cards, there’s a lot of potency imbued in the deck.
In terms of usability, the cards are of high quality, with a sturdy cardstock that shuffles easily and feels good in the hands. The size of the cards is also practical, striking a balance between being large enough to appreciate the detailed artwork and small enough to handle comfortably.
Overall, Seasons of the Witch: Mabon Oracle is a beautifully crafted and thoughtfully designed deck that offers both aesthetic pleasure and profound insights of autumn. It is a wonderful addition to any oracle card collection, especially for those who resonate with the energies and the themes of Mabon. Whether you are new to oracle cards or a seasoned practitioner, this deck is sure to provide inspiration, guidance, and a deeper connection to the rhythms of nature.
Alanna Kali is an astrologer, numerologist, and pioneer spirit that loves to explore life through the lens of depth psychology. She has a passion for studying the humanities and social trends. Her academic work is centered upon reuniting body, mind, and spirit through eco-psychology. She loves reading, spending time in nature, and travel.
Witchcraft is not a one-size-fits-all practice. There’s no single, universal “witchcraft” that everyone follows. Different witches may have varying beliefs, rituals, and traditions, influenced by their individual experiences, cultural backgrounds, and personal paths. This diversity is what makes witchcraft such a rich and fascinating exploration.
A Confluence of Witches: Celebrating our Lunar Roots, Decolonizing the Craft, and Reenchanting Our World, edited by Casey Zabala, brings together a diverse array of voices within the contemporary witchcraft community. Through a rich tapestry of essays, rituals, and personal narratives, this anthology shines a light on the multifaceted nature of witchcraft in the modern world to explore “the authentic intersection of magic, spirituality, personal development, and social justice.”14
“Modern Witchcraft is not a disavowal of our Pagan, animist, lunar roots. Rather, Modern Witchcraft is an evolution of our responsibilities as practicing witches. These responsibilities have historically been to praise the divinity of the Earth and cosmos, to provide healing remedy and support to the community, and to offer a spiritual framework for the oppressed. To be a modern witch we must straddle both our ancient origins and our futurist dreams.”15
This anthology covers a broad range of topics that will appeal to both seasoned practitioners and those new to the craft. The seven chapters each focus on a certain aspect of witchcraft: the Moon, the blending of traditional magic with modern technology, the decolonization of witchcraft, connection with the spirit world, connection to our bodies and Earth, pathways of healing, and the power of covens. Within the chapter there’s three essays related to the topic.
The essays in A Confluence of Witches are thought-provoking and deeply personal. Each contributor shares their unique journey and insights, making the anthology both informative and intimate. Some of my favorites are “Reclamining Resources: Money Magic in This Time of Capitalism” Jessie Susannah Karnatz, “Loving What Is: Quantum Witchcraft” by Sanyu Estelle, “Flower Animism: A Floral Spell” by Liz Migliorelli, and “There is Sustenance in the Roots by Star Feliz.
Zabala’s editorial hand is evident in the seamless flow of the book. At the start of each chapter, she writes an introduction for the topic, creating a cohesive overview of the essays that follow. I also felt like the arrangement of the chapters was very intuitive, though there’s truly no need to read them all in order.
One of this anthology’s greatest strengths is its inclusivity. Zabala has curated contributions from witches of various backgrounds, practices, and traditions, ensuring that readers are exposed to a wide spectrum of perspectives. This diversity not only enriches the reader’s understanding of witchcraft but also challenges any preconceived notions they might have. The essays all give a little glimpse inside the world of the writers, so readers can then pursue exploring more work of the writers they especially resonate with.
There are so many leads I want to follow now that I’ve read this book! I am truly enamored with the insights from the writers who contributed. At the end, Zabala has included biographies for all the contributors. Here readers can discover new podcasts, YouTube channels, books, organizations and groups, and more. The community Zabala created in 2018 is called Modern Witches, which aims “to heal and honor the collective’s relationship to the witch.”16
Reading through this book prompted a lot of reflection for me, and I began to see my practice connected to a much wider group of people. Oftentimes, especially when feeling isolated or marginalized, I think witches forget the community resources available to them. But there are so many others out there shaping Modern Witchcraft. I learned about so many other amazing witches and their work when reading this book that I would have never known about otherwise, and I’m really excited to further brand out and explore some new groups I learned about from the book.
It felt very expansive to see just how vast the world of Modern Witchcraft is right now and to take the time to think about the impact of technology, political systems, and social structures on witchcraft right now. With each chapter, I felt a shimmering web of energy growing between me and these other witches; even though our practices might look very different, we all walk the same path at this current time.
Overall, A Confluence of Witches is an essential read for anyone interested in the Modern Witchcraft movement. Within the variety of voices, the book maintains a narrative that guides the reader through the complexities of Modern Witchcraft that is expansive, inclusive, and thought-provoking. Whether one is new to the craft or a seasoned practitioner, this book gives voice to where Modern Witchcraft is at right now, contextualizing the greater community of witches beyond one’s daily scope.
We all possess our own sacred blend of spirituality, shaped by our experiences, beliefs, and connections to the world around us. By embracing the diversity of witchcraft and honoring the unique practices of others, we can create a more inclusive and supportive community that celebrates the richness of human spirituality.
Alanna Kali is an astrologer, numerologist, and pioneer spirit that loves to explore life through the lens of depth psychology. She has a passion for studying the humanities and social trends. Her academic work is centered upon reuniting body, mind, and spirit through eco-psychology. She loves reading, spending time in nature, and travel.
Witches: A Compendium, by Judika Illes Weiser Books, 1578638577, 240 pages, October 2024
Autumn has arrived, and I think we can all agree.. It’s officially the season of the witch! For those who are feeling drawn to witches, whether through fictional tales or their own witchcraft practice, Judika Illes’ latest book Witches: A Compendium offers a fascinating exploration of the subject, from ancient times to modern day. This comprehensive guide covers a range of witchcraft topics, from famous witches to the best witch-travel destinations.
“The world of witches is filled with passion, magic, high spirits, and joy. It is a world where the sacred is ever-present, a world in which even the most mundane objects possess deep spiritual significance. The world of witches is a world of wonder in which every color, incident, creature, sight, or sound has some sort of magical import.”17
Illes does an excellent job of presenting a diverse range of perspectives on witchcraft. Chapters are dedicated to types of witches, witchcraft tools, animal familiars, various well-known witches (famous ones, fictional ones, divination witches, and those who have been persecuted for their practice). She includes stories and practices from different cultures, highlighting the universal appeal and varied interpretations of witchcraft around the world. This inclusivity is a refreshing aspect of the book, as it acknowledges and respects the wide array of traditions and beliefs associated with witchcraft.
For each topic in the compendium, there’s anywhere from one paragraph to two pages dedicated to the subject. Illes’ writing style is engaging and accessible. She excels in writing insightful profiles that bring these individuals to life, offering readers a glimpse into their lives and the culture during the time they lived. Some of my favorites covered include Tamoamo-no-Mae, Hulda, and Kybele. I also loved the focus on fictional witches, such as Agatha Harkness, whose new TV show I just started watching on Disney+; Illes writing is so up-to-date that it mentions this new Marvel show, along with the recent WandaVision.
I was also pleasantly surprised to see that Illes included quite a few men in this compendium. Of course, there’s the male founders of certain traditions, such as Alexandrian Wicca and The Clan of Tubal Cain, who were influential in the spread of modern witchcraft. But she also looks to famous magicians and sorcerers of the past too, such as Abei no Seimei, Franz Bardon, Count Alessandro di Cagliostro, and Dr. Leo Martello. This inclusion gives a very balanced perspective on witchcraft, offering a full picture that counters stereotypes of witches always being old hags or devious young women.
The chapters on the tools, crafts, and animals associated with witchcraft are especially beneficial for readers to learn more about different practices. Illes covers tools like dolls, mirrors, runes, and wands, along with crafts of the trade such as dowsing, scrying, and astrology. The chapter “Animal Witches and Witches’ Animals” is loaded with information about the roles various animals have in witchcraft practices worldwide. I was fascinated to learn:
“European itches were accused of riding wolves or bates; African witches ride galloping hyenas, the animal most closely identified with witches throughout Africa.”18
And, if after making it through most of this book you are wondering if you’re a witch, Illes’ final chapter helps to answer this question. She includes lore that indicates being a witch, such as being the seventh-born son or daughter, as well as having a witch-mark or disliking salt. She also notes personality traits like “you have an affinity for wild nature, a love for the world’s wild, untamed places”19 and “you possess an independent streak: you don’t like being told what you can’t do, can’t learn, can’t known, can’t read, or where you can’t go.”20
Finally, the visual aspect of the book is also worth mentioning. Witches is beautifully illustrated, with images that complement the text and enhance the reader’s experience. The illustrations add an extra layer of enchantment to the book, making it not only informative but also a pleasure to look at.
Overall, Witches: A Compendium is a great read for anyone interested in the world of witchcraft. It is comprehensive, well-researched, and beautifully presented. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or a curious newcomer, this book offers valuable insights and practical knowledge that will deepen your understanding of witchcraft and its enduring allure.
And if you enjoy this book, Illes has quite a few other informative books published, including Encyclopedia of 5,000 Spells, Encyclopedia of Spirits, The Element Encyclopedia of Witchcraft, and Encyclopedia of Mystics, Saints, & Sages, along with The Weiser Field Guide to Witches and The Weiser Field Guide to the Paranormal.
Alanna Kali is an astrologer, numerologist, and pioneer spirit that loves to explore life through the lens of depth psychology. She has a passion for studying the humanities and social trends. Her academic work is centered upon reuniting body, mind, and spirit through eco-psychology. She loves reading, spending time in nature, and travel.
Secrets of Romani Fortune-Telling: Divining with Tarot, Palmistry, Tea Leaves, and More by Jezmina Von Thiele and Paulina Stevens is a compelling exploration into the rich and often secret world of Romani divination practices. The book serves as both an educational resource and a captivating narrative, shedding light on the traditions and cultural significance of fortune-telling within the Romani community. While not all secrets can be revealed, the authors open the world of Romani divination to us gadje (non-Romanian folks) to facilitate more cultural appreciation and less cultural appropriation.
“To understand the true art of Romani fortune-telling, and the secrets of intuition, we will share some spiritual techniques and business acumen, but more than that, we will share our beliefs, culture, history, trauma, resilience, and our stories. All of these make up the much misunderstood, maligned, and misrepresented practice of Romani divination.”21
Both Von Thiele and Stevens are of Romani descent. Von Thiele is a creative spark, working as a fortune teller, writer, editor, teacher, and performer in New Hampshire. While Stevens lives in California running her business Romani Holistic Healing where she offers clients fortune-telling, meditation, herbal health remedies, and life coaching. The authors combine their expertise in their joint podcast Romanistan, which inspired and led to Secrets of Romani Fortune-Telling.
What I love about the authors is how in both their podcast and this book they challenge aspects of their culture that need to evolve. They consider themselves intersectional feminists, gender librators, and anti-colonist, choosing to walk their own path, support LGBTQIA+ communities, and speak out against cultural issues such as domestic violence and arranged teen marriage. Their collaboration ensures that the book is not only informative but also sensitive to the cultural intricacies and historical context of Romani fortune-telling; it does not sugarcoating what needs to be addressed while simultaneously promoting a more inclusive future.
The book is structured to guide readers through various aspects of Romani divination. It covers a range of techniques, from palmistry and tarot reading to more obscure methods like coffee grounds and crystal gazing. Each chapter delves into the history, symbolism, and practical application of these techniques, making the book suitable for both beginners and those with a more advanced interest in the subject.
A real highlight are the personal stories Von Thiele and Stevens share from firsthand experience. The authors share anecdotes and insights from their own lives, providing a personal touch that makes the material more relatable and engaging. This narrative approach helps demystify the practice of fortune-telling and highlights its significance as a living tradition within Romani culture.
It’s also interesting to compare and contrast the experiences of Von Thiele and Stevens as their stories are often side-by-side, offering a multi-faceted perspective. I particularly enjoyed the information shared in the chapter “Dream Divination”. Each author shares their family’s approach to dreams, as well as prophetic dreams they’ve had, bedtime tea recipes, and dreams for interpretation. It feels like you are getting a two-for-one bonus with the dual insights shared by the authors.
I found it interesting to read about all the energy clearing and protective measures within Romani culture. Similar to my Italian heritage, the Romani culture veers towards superstitions and proactively acts to counter bad energy. There’s a whole section on the evil eye and what measures one can take to avoid it or remove it. The authors explain how within is an emphasis on cleansing and protecting your space and yourself, offering ways one can do this to maintain good energy.
“Fortune-telling deals with people’s lives, secrets, hopes, dreams, beliefs, loves, mistakes, struggles, and ambitions. The potential for messiness is great if you don’t have a solid moral compass yourself.”22
Another aspect of the book I really enjoyed is the guidance for working with clients and running one’s own fortune-telling business. The authors are seasoned professionals, trained from childhood to be fortune tellers, and after decades of this work, it’s clear they know what they’re doing. Entire chapters are dedicated to fortune-telling ethics, how to be convincing as a reader, ways to deal with skeptics, and how to be a professional fortune-teller. For those interested in running any client based business where they’re offering readings, these chapters are very helpful.
Overall, Secrets of Romani Fortune-Telling is a valuable addition to the literature on divination and Romani culture. It offers readers a unique perspective, combining historical context, practical guidance, and personal narrative. Whether you are interested in learning about fortune-telling techniques or gaining a deeper understanding of Romani traditions, this book is a worthwhile read.
Alanna Kali is an astrologer, numerologist, and pioneer spirit that loves to explore life through the lens of depth psychology. She has a passion for studying the humanities and social trends. Her academic work is centered upon reuniting body, mind, and spirit through eco-psychology. She loves reading, spending time in nature, and travel.
