In this list are many mentions of Paganism.
Many Pagans identify
W States today. According to the American Religious
icca is among the
Identification fastest
Survey growing
(ARIS) religions in the United
(http://www.gc.cuny.edu/
faculty/research_studies/aris.pdj),134,000 adults identified themselves
as Wiccan in 2001, as compared to 8,000 self-identified Wiccans in
1990. This figure does not, of course, include Wiccans who refuse to
identify themselves for fear of persecution. Because ARIS defines
adult as "18 and over," the survey is not concerned with the many
teens interested in or actively practicing Wicca. Yet even this partial
information makes it clear that interest in Wicca has been growing
enormously.
Wicca has a particular appeal to teens. Many are drawn by its
emphasis on the earth and environmentalism, its female-positive
deities and rituals, and the freedom that it allows its practitioners-
rituals, spells, prayers, and invocations can and should be
personalized to fit the outlook of the Wiccan. Magick also plays a role
in this draw; the idea that the universe can be affected by our actions
and thoughts is a deeply compelling one. Wiccans do not believe that
magick is supernatural; rather, magick is part of the natural world.
Practitioners can influence the elements and the world around them
by working with the connections that exist between all things.
Of course magick and spellcasting are extremely worrying to many
people, especially those who operate under the misunderstanding
that Wiccans worship the Devil. As the books listed here make clear,
Wiccans do not worship Satan-they do not recognize any
completely evil being, believing that all things in the world have
elements of both good and bad. Most Wiccans embrace the Wiccan
rede, "An it harm none, do what thou wilt." The threefold law is also a
major force in Wicca: Whatever energy-good, bad, or neutral-that
a person sends into the world will return to him or her three times
over. These two guidelines are generally interpreted to mean that
Wiccans should not wish harm on or even exert magickal influence
over another person. Instead Wiccan spells and rituals are usually
designed to communicate the practitioner's wishes or needs to the
invoked spirit or deity. Not all Wiccans cast spells-it is an
individual's choice which path to take to communicate with the
divine.
Wicca's roots are twofold, first in ancient goddess-based religions,
particularly those of Northern Europe. Many Wiccans believe that the
witch hunts of the Middle Ages did target Wise Women and Witches
who were the last remnants of these religions, having been
overwhelmed by the rise of Christianity. The second root is in the
early- and mid-twentieth century when covens began to form,
reclaiming ancient myths, traditions, and rituals. Today Wicca is a
constantly evolving religion, borrowing from many traditions to
make its own spiritual connections in the world. Both covens and
individual practitioners create their own Books of Shadow, journals
in which spells, invocations, and observations are kept.
themselves as Wiccans, but there are other aspects of Pagan
spirituality such as Druidism, Asatru, Shamanism, and a variety of
other beliefs that may or may not identify themselves with a specific
religion. Wicca tends to be the most high profile and is certainly
capable of embracing other beliefs from many cultures. Many of the
books below contain lists of resources for readers interested in other
Pagan spiritual paths.
Fiction represented a hurdle in compiling this list. Most "Wicca"
books aimed at teens fall on the more dramatic end of the spectrum,
with witches hurling firebolts and battling demons-call it the
Charmedschool of Wicca. Although these books can be both fun and
interesting, including them in a serious booklist about the Wiccan
religion could be compared to including Christian fiction for teens in
which Jesus befriends the protagonist and helps him raise the dead. A
brief list of classic fiction and folklore must suffice.
BELIEF AND PRACTICE
Cunningham, Scott. Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner.
*Llewellyn Publications, 2004. 218p. $9.95 Trade pb.
978-0-87542-118-6.
Widely considered as one of the classics of modern Wicca,
this straightforward and eminently readableguide
advocates for personalized, adaptable rituals and
simplified spellcasting.It also clearly explains the roles of
the Goddess and God; touches upon runes, herbcraft,and
crystal magick; and provides a solid list of recommended resources.
Dugan, Ellen. Elements of Witchcraft: Natural
Magick for Teens. Llewellyn Publications, 2003.
336p. $14.95 Trade pb. 978-0-7387-0393-0.
Emphasis on the importance of nature in the Wiccan
religion provides an interestingand useful twist on the
usual introductionsto Wicca. Dugan discusses her own
Wiccan rituals and those of her daughter to underline
the teachings here, particularly those on understanding,
environmentalism, and ethics.
Farrar, Janet, and Gavin Bone. Progressive Witchcraft:
*Spirituality, Mysteries, and Training in Modern
Wicca. New Page Books, 2004. 288p. $15.99 Trade
pb. 978-1-56414-719-6.
This advanced exploration of the evolving beliefs and
practices of modern Wicca stands in contrast to the
plethora of guides for beginning Wicca. In addition to a
brief history of witchcraft, the authors discuss the state of
Wicca today, delve into the relationships between Wiccans and the
deities, and outline possible training and education options for
Wiccans lookingfor a moreformal religiousexperience.
Manoy, Lauren. Where to Park Your Broomstick: A
Teen's Guide to Witchcraft. Fireside/S & S, 2002.
E
320p. $13 Trade pb. 978-0-684-85500-4.
Moorey, Teresa. Spellbound: The Teenage Witch's
2002.
Wiccan 250p. $12.95 Trade
Handbook. pb. 978-1-
Ulysses Press,
56975-312-5.
Despite the frivolous-seeming titles and cover art, both
books are earnestanddetailedguides for teens startingon
the Wiccan path. Both discuss core beliefs such as the
Goddess and God, nature worship, and the Wiccan rede
before going on to outline rituals, spells, and potions of interest to
teenage girls. Spellbound focuses on seasonal rituals, discussing
significant holidays (Sabbats) and the stories behind them. Where to
Park Your Broomstick has information aboutfinding local covens,
ritual etiquette, and various divination systems such as tarot and
runes.
Penczak, Christopher. Sons of the Goddess: A
Young Man's Guide to Wicca. Llewellyn
Publications, 2005. 193p. $15.95 Trade pb. 978-
0-7387-0547-7.
Because of the importance of the Goddess in
Wiccan beliefs, Wicca can sometimes feel like a
very female-centered religion. This book is aimed at young men
drawn to the religion who are looking for their own space within
it. In addition to basic information about history, beliefs, rituals,
and spells, the author explores the male aspects of the deities and
offers specific meditations and rituals designed for young men to
find their own Wiccan path.
Rain, Gwinevere. Confessions of a Teenage Witch: Celebrating
the Wiccan Life. Perigee/Penguin Putnam, 2005.
206p. $13.95 Trade pb. 978-0-399-53161-3. VOYA
February 2006.
This guide for beginners acts as both an introduction to
the concepts of Wicca for teens and a handbookfor those
looking to be initiated into Wiccan practice.Because Rain
is a practicingWiccan who began at age fourteen, she has
a close perspective on some of the issues that teen Wiccans may face.
She uses anecdotes from her own experiences and comments from
other Wiccan teens to make the rituals, spells, and advice offered here
both practicaland accessible.
RavenWolf, Silver. Teen Witch: Wicca for a New 7 ] Straightforwardand cheerful, these introductions arefor those
Generation. Llewellyn Publications, 1998. 251p.
$12.95 Trade pb. 978-1-56718-725-0.
RavenWolf, Silver. To Ride a Silver Broomstick:
New Generation Witchcraft.
Llewellyn Publications, 1993. 300p. 0 i various traditions that Wicca embraces along with advice for both
$14.95 Trade pb. 978-0-87542-791-
1.
RavenWolf is one of the best-known modern
Wiccans. Although she has attracted some
controversy in the Wiccan community, her books are
immensely popular with teens and adults looking for guidance in
belief, rituals,and spells. Teen Witch is aimed specifically at teens
interested in Wicca, and serves as a comprehensive introduction to
the beliefs and rituals that center the religion. To Ride a Silver
Broomstick acts as "Wicca 101," with more discussion of the basic
beliefs and rituals,plus detailed information about related topics
such as divination, psychic abilities, healing herbs and gems, and
drawing down the moon. Readers might find RavenWolf's other
guides interesting,particularly the other two New Generation
Witchcraft guides: To Stir a Magic Cauldron:A Solitary Witch's
Guide to Castingand Conjuringand To Light a Sacred Flame:
WitchCraftfor the New Millenium.
Starhawk. The Spiral Dance: A Rebirth of the
Ancient Religion of the Great Goddess.
HarperCollins, 1999, @1979. 326p. $17 Trade pb.
978-0-06-250814-0.
In one of the essential texts of Wicca, Starhawk offers
both an exploration of the feminist underpinningof
the modern Wiccan and Pagan movements, and a guidebook to
Wiccan ritual and spellcraft. A detailed history of legendary pagan
beliefs of Europe and the persecution of Witches precedes an
exploration of the various aspects of Goddess and detailed
explanations of both practicalspells and ceremonial rituals. There is
also a chapterdevoted to the philosophy of Goddess religion.
Telesco, Patricia. The Teen Book of Shadows: Star Signs, Spells,
Potions, and Powers. Citadel Press, 2004. 226p.
$12.95 Trade pb. 978-0-8065-2410-8.
This comprehensive guide to Wicca by a well-known and
much-published witch includes information on a range of
magickal subjects from astrology to runes, with sections on
creatingspells and talking to yourparents about Wicca.
Valiente, Doreen. Witchcraft for Tomorrow.
Phoenix Publishing, 1988, @1983. 205p. $12.95
Trade pb. 978-0-919345-83-6.
Written by one of the leading lights of the modern
Wicca revival, this guide for practitionersfeatures an
in-depth look at the reclaiming of ancient religious
traditions. It examines the historical context for
modern ritual and spellcraft, and promotes an
understandingthat Wicca, as an evolving religion, has borrowedfrom
many traditions along the way. The second half of the book is the
author'sBook of Shadows, using the precedingdiscussion of tradition
to explicate suggested rituals, spells, and invocations.
Publishers' Series
Complete Idiots Guides. Alpha Books.
Zimmerman, Denise, et al. The Complete Idiot's
Guide to Wicca and Witchcraft. 2006. 384p. Wicca and
$16.95. 978-1-59257-533-6. IWithcrf
McColman, Carl. The Complete Idiot's Guide to _
Paganism. 2002. 384p. $18.95. 978-0-02-
864266-6.
who might be put off by the darker-looking content of other
Wiccan guides. The guide to Wicca and Witchcraft features a brief
look at the history of witches and modern Wicca and then delves
into practices and ritualsfor beginners to try. It explores the
solitary practitioners and those looking for a coven. The guide to
Paganismexplores the wider world of Pagan magic and belief such
as Shamanism and Druidism, with sections on folklore, rituals,
and the practice of Pagan magic. Both guides are perfect for
beginners and the curious.
The Everything Series.Adams Media Corporation.
Singer, Marian. The Everything Wicca and
Witchcraft Book: Unlock the Secrets of Ancient
&VNIA1
WICCA AND Rituals, Spells, Blessings, and Sacred Objects.
WITCHCRAFr 2002. 304p. $14.95 Trade pb. 978-1-58062-725-2.
4
B0'BK4 Another alternativefor those interested in Wicca but
~intimidated
i or turned off by the traditionalguides, this
book is designed to answer basic questions and start
readers on the path to Wiccan enlightenment. Readers will learn the
basic history of Wicca as well as rituals, materials,and spells, and will
gain guidance about covens, solitarypractice,and additionalresources.
HISTORY, GEOGRAPHY, AND POLITICS
Adler, Margot. Drawing Down the Moon: Witches, Druids,
E
America Today. Penguin, 2006, ©1979. 672p. $18
Trade pb. 978-0-14-303819-1.
In 1979, Adler set out across the country to interview
various "neo-pagans," individuals
Goddess-Worshippers, and and groups
Other who were
Pagans in
reclaimingancientbeliefs culledfrom legends, myths, and
anthropological research to create entirely new rituals
and religions. Adler does not give instructionsfor rituals or spells;
instead she offers a journalistic view of the neo-pagan movement,
allowing practitioners to speak for themselves about their beliefs and
journeys. Despite its intimidatingsize, this book might be of interest to
teens who are lookingfor alternateguides to the Wiccan world or who
have particularinterest infeminist or Wiccan history.
Buckland, Raymond. The Witch Book: The
Encyclopedia of Witchcraft, Wicca, and Neo-
paganism. Visible Ink Press, 2002. 602p. $44.
978-0-7808-0718-1. $24.95 Trade pb. 978-1-
57859-114-5.
This encyclopedia by one of the founders of the
modern American Wiccan movement covers historical,contemporary,
EWicca.
and religious subjects important to students of Wicca. It's a useful
reference source for locating subjects and people related to Witchcraft
and Wicca.
Bonewits, Isaac. Bonewits's Essential Guide to Witchcraft and
Citadel Press, 2006, 01971. 202p. $12.95
Trade pb. 978-0-8065-2711-6.
Most books on Wicca include at least a short history of
both the modern version and the generally accepted
history of Witchcraft in ancient times. Bonewits both
expands those histories and examines them closely,
working to discover what is provable fact and what is
romanticizedfiction. For those interested in history and different
philosophies of Paganism and Wicca, this guide offers excellent
reading.
Conway, D. J. Magick of the Gods and Goddesses:
Invoking the Power of the Ancient Gods.
Crossing Press, 2003, 01997. 448p. $19.95 Trade
pb. 978-1-58091-153-5.
This guide to a wide variety of spiritual beliefs in the
ancient world covers witchcraft, shamanism, and the
Qabala as well as religions of the Aztecs, Egyptians, the Nordic-
Germanic Realms, ancientIndia and Rome, and more. Each chapter
includes a briefhistory of the culture discussed as well as their myths,
legends, and religious rituals. Lists of major deities and recommended
resources for further study are provided. This useful resource for
students of history and religion also has value for Wiccans and other
seekers interested in exploring the various aspects of world deities.
Cunningham, Scott. The Truth about Witchcraft
EWiccan:
Today. Llewellyn Publications, 1988. 208p. $5.99 pb.
978-0-87542-127-8.
McColman, Carl. When Someone You Love is
A Guide to Witchcraft and
Paganism for Concerned Friends,
Nervous Parents, and Curious Co-
Workers. New Page Books, 2003. 224p. $13.99 Trade
pb. 978-1-56414-622-9.
One of the issues that Wiccans face is that their families,
friends, and co-workers will misunderstandtheir religious
beliefs or that they will be censured or even attacked for practicing
Wicca. These guides are written specifically for nonpractitioners who
are concerned about their friends and loved ones. With so much
I VOYA Oeicmb(i 100o
misinformation about Wicca floating about, it's essential to be able to
offer clear-sighted definitions and explanations that are free of the
fear-mongeringand sensationalismfound elsewhere.
Fisher, Amber Laine. Philosophy of Wicca. ECW
Press, 2002. 256p. $19.99 Trade pb. 978-1-55022-
487-0.
This short and interesting work outlines the history
and philosophy behind modern Wiccan beliefs, with
an emphasis on the variety of traditions on which
Wicca draws to empower its key concepts. It might be of interest to
both practitionersand the curious.
Guiley, Rosemary Ellen. The Encyclopedia of
Witches and Witchcraft, 2nd ed. Checkmark
Books/Facts on File, 1999. 417p. $85. 978-0-8160-
3848-0. $24.95 Trade pb. 978-0-8160-3849-7.
This comprehensive look at witchcraft past and
present is a valuable resourcefor both personal and
school use. A mdlange of A to Z entries allows for
room to explore historical concepts, figures, and beliefs side by side
with the modern Pagan and Wiccan movements.
Knight, Sirona. A Witch Like Me: The Spiritual Journeys of
* Today's Pagan Practitioners. New Page Books, 2001.
208p. $13.99 Trade pb. 978-1-56414-539-0.
Modeled on John E Kennedy's Profiles in Courage, this
collection of essays features thirteen modern Pagans and
Wiccans answering questions about their beliefs and
experiences and examining the roots of their faith. Of
special interest to teens is an emphasis on the paths in
childhood and adolescence that led to each practitioner'sspirituality.
NightMare, M. Macha. Pagan Pride:
Honoring the Craft and Culture of Earth PA,AN PRIE
and Goddess. Citadel Press, 2004. 2 96p.
$15.99. 978-0-8065-2548-8. m
This attractive book is a short and sweet list of
101 accomplishments of Pagans throughout
history. Divided into subjects such as "Culture"
and "Science and Technology," it outlines milestones in human
development such as baking or theater that Paganshelped to create or
had a hand in influencing. This positive, friendly book delves into
historyfrom a different perspective.
Publishers' Series
Opposing Viewpoints. Greenhaven.
Black Magic and Witches: Fact or Fiction? Tamara
L. Roleff, Ed. 2003. 127p. PLB $29.95. 978-0-7377-
1318-3. $21.20 pb. 978-0-7377-1319-0. VOYA
August 2004.
Arguing about whether Wicca and witchcraft are evil or
benign, this collection of essays focuses on military
service for Wiccans, Harry Potter,and whether magick is possible.
Although it could certainlybe more extensive, it is a valuable resource
for young Wiccans and others looking to find both arguments
presented clearly and objectively.
FICTION AND FOLKLORE
Bradley, Marion Zimmer. The Mists of Avalon.
Ballantine Books, 2000, 01982. 876p. $30. 978-0-
345-44118-8. Del Rey, 1987. $17.95 Trade pb. 978-
0-345-35049-7.
This retellingof the legend of King Arthur comes from the perspectives
of Morgaine and Gwenhwyfar (more commonly known as Morgan Le
Fay and Guinevere) as they struggleagainst each otherfor the heart of
111111ý1'010., OM

Arthur and the future of England. Morgan Le Fay is usually depicted
as an evil witch, but here she is seen as the last defender of the Pagan
faith, fighting to preserve England's relationship with nature and
faery against the rise of Christianity.A compelling plot, well-told
narrative,and beautiful descriptions of Avalon and
magickal ritualsmake this novel a classic.
Matthews, Caitlin. Celtic Memories. Barefoot
Books, 2003. 80p. $19.99. 978-1-84148-097- 8.
This beautifully illustrated book combines
traditionalstories and songs to convey the spirit
andpower of ancientNorthern Europe.
McBratney, Sam. Celtic Myths. Peter Bedrick Books, 1998. 96p.
$22.50. 978-0-87226-561-5. Hodder & Stoughton,
2005. $9.99 Trade pb. 978-0-340-88374-7.
This selection of talesfrom traditionalCelticfolklore looks
like a picture book, but the stories are longer, more
complex, and in some cases more gruesome than those
found in books for children. Taken from a variety of
Northern European traditions,the stories are illustrated
with strangeand eeriepictures.
Walton, Evangeline. The Mabinogion Tetralogy.
Overlook Press, 2002, ©1936, 1971, 1972, and
1973. 718p. $35. 978-1-58567-241-7. 2004. $24.95
Trade pb. 978-1-58567-504-3.
The Mabinogion is the traditionalcompendium of 7' 1,i,•77-
Welsh mythology and folklore, telling the stories of *"...........
heroes, clans, and their gods in the time before Christianitycame to
Northern Europe. The four novels collected here-Princeof Annwn,
The Children of Llyr, The Song of Rhiannon, and The Island of
the Mighty--all draw their inspirationfrom this ancientfolklore.
Starting with the tale of Prince Pwyll and his encounter with Arawn,
the God of Death, the novels combine to create an epic tale of a time
when gods and mortals mingled and matched wits.
WEB SITES
Beliefnet (http://www.beliefnet.com/index/index 10015.html). The
section about Pagan & Earth-based religions on this multi-
denominational site offers essays, interviews, and well-
moderated discussion groups for many Pagan religions as well
as a board specifically for Pagan teens. It emphasizes education
and respect for all beliefs.
Lady of the Earth (http://www.ladyoftheearth.com). Stating that it
is "an online resource for Wiccan, Pagan, Witch, Wicca, Earth-
Based, Shaman, and New Age information," this site features
dozens of essays collected from defunct newsletters, pamphlets,
and zines from the past thirty years, discussing a wide variety of
subjects. Many essays are not available anywhere else and have
Ný
been gathered by the site administrator with the permission of
the author when available. Reading these essays, which range in
topic from candle majick to shamanism to the role of the devil
in Christianity and Wicca, will give readers both a variety of
viewpoints and an understanding of how very personalized
Wicca can be.
Ontario Consultants on Religious Tolerance (http://www.
religioustolerance.org/witchcra.htm).This site is run by a multi-
religion group that believes that all religions should be
understood and respected. The Wicca and Witchcraft section
contains essays about Wiccan history, beliefs, myths, and
symbols; an FAQ; and a well-reasoned response to the charge
that Wiccans worship Satan.
Wicca for the Rest of Us (http://wicca.timerift.net). This clearly
written site is motivated by respect for Wiccan and Pagan beliefs
combined with a desire to set the record straight on its origins
and practices. Sections such as "Wicca 101" and "Wiccan Basics"
explore questions such as "Who do you worship?" and "What is
meant by the Wiccan rede?" The section on Myth and History
explores the misinformation commonly disseminated by
Wiccans (for example, that the religion is 25,000 years old) and
makes a strong case for understanding Wicca as a relatively new
religion that borrows from a variety of older cultures. This site
is an excellent starting point for those seeking information
about Wicca.
The Wiccan/Pagan Times (http://www.twpt.com). With interviews
and book reviews of interest to the Wiccan and Pagan
community, this site offers a concentrated look at new books
and information. The interviews with authors and other
influential people in the Pagan community are interesting and
educational, as are the links to rituals and holidays.
The Witches' Voice (http://www.witchvox.com). Presenting
"NeoPagan News/Networking Since 1997;" this eclectic, jam-
packed site contains links to local events and covens, book and
movie reviews related to Wiccan concerns, a frequently updated
feed to Pagan and Wiccan-related news items, informational
articles debunking anti-Pagan propaganda, and a bulletin board
where registered users can post profiles. Of particular interest to
teens and those who work with teens is the section dedicated to
essays written by Wiccan and Pagan teenagers about their faith. a
*
Lorraine Squires is an Adult and Teen Services Librarianat Middle
Country Public Library in Centereach,New York She is a Serving the
Underserved trainerfor the Young Adult Library Services Association
(YALSA). She began reviewingfor VOYA in 2004. In August 2006 she
became VOYA's new Paperback Series Roundup columnist assisted by
her teen Share-a-Media group. Although not a practicing Wiccan, she
has been interested in the topic since her time at Carleton College, home
of the Reformed DruidsofNorth America.
0
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TITLE: Wicca: A World Religions Resource List for Teens

SOURCE: Voice Youth Advocates 29 no5 D 2006
WN: 0633500176003

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