Books are a uniquely portable magic. They have the power to transport us to different worlds, introduce us to new characters, and ignite our imaginations. No matter where we are, books allow us to escape into their pages and experience a different reality. One of the remarkable qualities of books is their ability to be carried with us. Unlike other forms of entertainment, such as movies or video games, books are lightweight and can easily fit into a bag or purse. This means they can accompany us on our daily commutes, travels, or simply be tucked away for a quiet moment during the day.
The past century has born witness to a growing interest in the belief systems of ancient Europe, with an array of contemporary Pagan groups claiming to revive these old ways for the needs of the modern world. By far the largest and best known of these Paganisms has been Wicca, a new religious movement that can now count hundreds of thousands of adherents worldwide.
This means they can accompany us on our daily commutes, travels, or simply be tucked away for a quiet moment during the day. The portability of books also means that they are accessible to everyone, regardless of their circumstances. They can be enjoyed by people of all ages, from young children just beginning their reading journey to older adults looking for a way to relax and unwind.
Wicca: History, Belief, and Community in Modern Pagan Witchcraft (Paperback)
The past century has born witness to a growing interest in the belief systems of ancient Europe, with an array of contemporary Pagan groups claiming to revive these old ways for the needs of the modern world. By far the largest and best known of these Paganisms has been Wicca, a new religious movement that can now count hundreds of thousands of adherents worldwide. Emerging from the occult milieu of mid twentieth-century Britain, Wicca was first presented as the survival of an ancient pre-Christian Witch-Cult, whose participants assembled in covens to venerate their Horned God and Mother Goddess, to celebrate seasonal festivities, and to cast spells by the light of the full moon. Spreading to North America, where it diversified under the impact of environmentalism, feminism, and the 1960s counter-culture, Wicca came to be presented as a Goddess-centred nature religion, in which form it was popularised by a number of best-selling authors and fictional television shows. Today, Wicca is a maturing religious movement replete with its own distinct world-view, unique culture, and internal divisions. This book represents the first published academic introduction to be exclusively devoted to this fascinating faith, exploring how this Witches' Craft developed, what its participants believe and practice, and what the Wiccan community actually looks like. In doing so it sweeps away widely-held misconceptions and offers a comprehensive overview of this religion in all of its varied forms. Drawing upon the work of historians, anthropologists, sociologists, and scholars of religious studies, as well as the writings of Wiccans themselves, it provides an original synthesis that will be invaluable for anyone seeking to learn about the blossoming religion of modern Pagan Witchcraft.
- Body, Mind & Spirit / Witchcraft
- Hardcover (August 12th, 2022): $74.95
The past century has born witness to a growing interest in the belief systems of ancient Europe, with an array of contemporary Pagan groups claiming to revive these old ways for the needs of the modern world. By far the largest and best known of these Paganisms has been Wicca, a new religious movement that can now count hundreds of thousands of adherents worldwide. Emerging from the occult milieu of mid twentieth-century Britain, Wicca was first presented as the survival of an ancient pre-Christian Witch-Cult, whose participants assembled in covens to venerate their Horned God and Mother Goddess, to celebrate seasonal festivities, and to cast spells by the light of the full moon. Spreading to North America, where it diversified under the impact of environmentalism, feminism, and the 1960s counter-culture, Wicca came to be presented as a Goddess-centred nature religion, in which form it was popularised by a number of best-selling authors and fictional television shows. Today, Wicca is a maturing religious movement replete with its own distinct world-view, unique culture, and internal divisions. This book represents the first published academic introduction to be exclusively devoted to this fascinating faith, exploring how this Witches' Craft developed, what its participants believe and practice, and what the Wiccan community actually looks like. In doing so it sweeps away widely-held misconceptions and offers a comprehensive overview of this religion in all of its varied forms. Drawing upon the work of historians, anthropologists, sociologists, and scholars of religious studies, as well as the writings of Wiccans themselves, it provides an original synthesis that will be invaluable for anyone seeking to learn about the blossoming religion of modern Pagan Witchcraft.
Whether we are waiting in a doctor's office, sitting on a park bench, or snuggled in bed before sleep, books are always within reach. Beyond their physical portability, books also possess a magical ability to transport us to different times and places. They can take us on epic adventures through vast fantasy worlds, immerse us in historical events, or introduce us to characters that resonate with our own experiences. This power to transport us allows us to explore new perspectives, broaden our horizons, and empathize with the lives of others. Moreover, books are not only portable vehicles for imagination but also catalysts for personal growth. They can educate, inspire, and challenge us to think critically about the world. Through books, we can learn about various cultures, discover new ideas, and gain insights into complex issues. They provide a window into different experiences and perspectives, fostering empathy and understanding. In a world full of distractions and constant movement, books offer a much-needed respite. They allow us to disconnect from the constant stream of notifications and immerse ourselves in the slower pace of reading. In this way, books can be a form of self-care, providing a moment of calm in our hectic lives. In conclusion, books truly are a uniquely portable magic. Their ability to transport us, educate us, and provide solace is unparalleled. They offer a window into different worlds, allowing us to escape, learn, and grow. So let us cherish the magic of books and make sure to always have one within our reach..
Reviews for "Unlocking the Power of Books: How Reading Influences Our Everyday Lives"
1. John - 2/5 - While I understand the sentiment behind the phrase "Books are a uniquely portable magic," I found it to be quite exaggerated. As an avid reader, I enjoy the convenience of e-books and audiobooks which allow me to carry hundreds of books in a single device. This surely offers more portability than physical books. Additionally, digital formats provide various features like adjustable font sizes and bookmarking that enhance the reading experience. Therefore, while I appreciate the charm of traditional books, I cannot fully agree with the statement that they are the only form of "portable magic."
2. Sara - 3/5 - I have to disagree with the notion that books are uniquely portable magic. In a world where technology has advanced so much, there are numerous alternatives to books that offer the same sense of wonder and escapism. For instance, movies and TV shows can transport viewers to other worlds and evoke just as much emotion. Moreover, the rise of audiobooks and podcasts has made literature accessible to those who prefer listening over reading. While books have their own magic, it is unfair to claim that they are the only source of portable magic in today's fast-paced world.
3. Michael - 2/5 - As someone who struggles with reading physical books due to eyestrain, I don't find the phrase "Books are a uniquely portable magic" to be accurate. For people like me, e-readers and audiobooks are a game-changer. The ability to adjust fonts and backlighting on e-readers significantly improves the reading experience. Audiobooks, on the other hand, allow me to enjoy literature without any strain on my eyes. Therefore, while books may be magical for some, they are not the only form of portable magic for everyone.