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Witchery: Embrace the Witch Within
Everywhere, the witches are rising. Are you ready to answer the call and embrace your own inner witch?
In this book, Indigenous Taino Bruja and Seer Juliet Diaz guides you on a journey to connect with the Magick within you. She explains how to cast off what doesn't serve you, unleash your authentic self, and become an embodiment of your truth. You'll also learn the skills and techniques you need to build your own Magickal craft and practice. This book isn't like any other witchy book out there, Juliet doesn't just hand over spells for you to dive into, she teaches you how Magick really works, how to tap into the frequencies that manifest your intentions and desires, and explains why you are the most powerful tool in your life and Magick. Within these enchanted pages you'll discover how * Connect with the power of your inner witch * Create spells, potions, and rituals for love, protection, healing, manifestation and more * Amplify your energy by working with a Book of Shadows * Create an altar and decorate it according to the seasons to tap into seasonal power * Work with the Moon and the Seasons of the Witch * Connect with your ancestors to receive their wisdomFilled with Magick, inspiration, and love, Witchery is your guide and companion on a wickedly delicious journey to true self-empowerment. In the book, Juliet has hidden a spell that spans through every page. In the beginning she asks readers to anoint the book (instructions in the book) to activate this spell which will connect you to the book at an intimate level. The book becomes an oracle! After you read the book and find yourself needing guidance on anything in life, simple grab the book and ask what it is you need to connect with, do or learn and flip the pages until you feel called to stop. Read the lessons or words on that page to guide you. (you can substitute any ingredients & you can anoint it via kindle as well)
233 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 5, 2019
About the author
Juliet Diaz
20 books314 followersJuliet Diaz is a Bruja, Seer, and Spiritual activist. She's an Indigenous Taino Cubana from a long line of curanderos (Healers) and Brujas on both sides of her parents' lineages. She believes Magic lives within us all and feels passionately about inspiring others to step into their truth and waking to their remembrance. Juliet has devoted her life to helping people come back to their Divine Self and liberate themselves from the oppressor within and without.
She is the author of the bestselling book Witchery: Embrace the Witch Within (which has sold to over nine countries) and #1 new release Plant Witchery. Her third book and most important book yet, The Altar Within releases 1/11/22.
Juliet has a Master's of Science in Herbal Medicine as well as countless certifications in an array of healing modalities. She has been featured in major publications like Oprah Magazine, National Geographic, The Atlantic, Wired, and Refinery, to name a few.
Follow me on all social media @iamjulietdiaz
She is the author of the bestselling book Witchery: Embrace the Witch Within (which has sold to over nine countries) and #1 new release Plant Witchery. Her third book and most important book yet, The Altar Within releases 1/11/22.
Juliet has a Master's of Science in Herbal Medicine as well as countless certifications in an array of healing modalities. She has been featured in major publications like Oprah Magazine, National Geographic, The Atlantic, Wired, and Refinery, to name a few.
Follow me on all social media @iamjulietdiaz
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 300 reviews
May 25, 2019
I liked this book. It's very much a beginner book, more "witch 101" than I usually buy, but I figured it's written by a WOC so I needed it.
I liked:
- The "Practice Responsibly"!!! I appreciated earlier in the book that she didn't use the term "smudging" but rather cleansing and clarified why near the end. As a Cree person who was taught to traditionally smudge by my kokum, I really appreciate this.
- The seasons of the witch section. I love a straight-forward correspondences section.
- The "Love Letter" in the back
- Her personal stories embedded throughout. I would totally read a memoir by her.
A few things I didn't love:
- the spells are very "ingredient heavy", some including rarer ingredients such as high john the conqueror and dried white horehound. Lots of essential oils. It's not super accessible, but to be fair, Diaz is a herbalist so it makes sense that they're relied on!
- This is certainly not specific to the book and is present in so many witchy books, but I am not a fan of the whole "positive vibes only" thing. One small example from this book is "always protect yourself by staying away from negative people or situations" (p. 18)
Conflict and other "negative" things can spur growth. We can't be comfortable and happy all the time. Sometimes we need to fight. Sometimes we need to be angry. Sometimes we need to interact with difficult, hurt people. Sometimes people you love are difficult, hurt people with "negative vibes". No, I don't mean it's your job to fix people or put your own wellness on the line, but I certainly don't think you need to "unfriend" someone because they're "negative". Again, this certainly isn't specific to this book only, but this mentality is present throughout.
I liked:
- The "Practice Responsibly"!!! I appreciated earlier in the book that she didn't use the term "smudging" but rather cleansing and clarified why near the end. As a Cree person who was taught to traditionally smudge by my kokum, I really appreciate this.
- The seasons of the witch section. I love a straight-forward correspondences section.
- The "Love Letter" in the back
- Her personal stories embedded throughout. I would totally read a memoir by her.
A few things I didn't love:
- the spells are very "ingredient heavy", some including rarer ingredients such as high john the conqueror and dried white horehound. Lots of essential oils. It's not super accessible, but to be fair, Diaz is a herbalist so it makes sense that they're relied on!
- This is certainly not specific to the book and is present in so many witchy books, but I am not a fan of the whole "positive vibes only" thing. One small example from this book is "always protect yourself by staying away from negative people or situations" (p. 18)
Conflict and other "negative" things can spur growth. We can't be comfortable and happy all the time. Sometimes we need to fight. Sometimes we need to be angry. Sometimes we need to interact with difficult, hurt people. Sometimes people you love are difficult, hurt people with "negative vibes". No, I don't mean it's your job to fix people or put your own wellness on the line, but I certainly don't think you need to "unfriend" someone because they're "negative". Again, this certainly isn't specific to this book only, but this mentality is present throughout.
May 19, 2019
“ I love you, I care for you and I will never stop speaking up for us all”
“You are precious”
THIS BOOK IS AN GOOD BOOK
I think I’ve read too many books by whyte witches who are entirely too comfortable with appropriating other cultures and being disrespectful in general, reading a witch book by a person of colour was such a blessed reprieve. On top of that she acknowledged cultures that weren’t her own and suggested other phrases that aren’t specific to certain cultures to avoid appropriation.
This book was easy to read, not that it had overly simple language but in that it was a joy to read and made me want to read more. I felt guided but also not pressured in anyway, and most importantly I felt cared for. I read the phrase “you are precious” and I felt loved because I had such genuine caring vibes from the author. I can’t even attribute this to writing style, I think it was more that I could sense a genuine want to help and love from the author.
On top of that it actually had super useful information without being authoritative. AN GOOD BOOK.
“You are precious”
THIS BOOK IS AN GOOD BOOK
I think I’ve read too many books by whyte witches who are entirely too comfortable with appropriating other cultures and being disrespectful in general, reading a witch book by a person of colour was such a blessed reprieve. On top of that she acknowledged cultures that weren’t her own and suggested other phrases that aren’t specific to certain cultures to avoid appropriation.
This book was easy to read, not that it had overly simple language but in that it was a joy to read and made me want to read more. I felt guided but also not pressured in anyway, and most importantly I felt cared for. I read the phrase “you are precious” and I felt loved because I had such genuine caring vibes from the author. I can’t even attribute this to writing style, I think it was more that I could sense a genuine want to help and love from the author.
On top of that it actually had super useful information without being authoritative. AN GOOD BOOK.
September 25, 2019
"Every Witch should meditate daily.."
Just.... no.
Also, I might just be a beginner, but why would an author include so many spells, rituals and potions that contain expensive and hard to find ingredients without every explaining the WHY of it.
What is the purpose of using rice to anoint a book?
Where do I even buy dried blue lotus?
Why would you anoint anything with menstrual blood?
How does holding a black obsidian help earth someone?
I have too many questions.
Just.... no.
Also, I might just be a beginner, but why would an author include so many spells, rituals and potions that contain expensive and hard to find ingredients without every explaining the WHY of it.
What is the purpose of using rice to anoint a book?
Where do I even buy dried blue lotus?
Why would you anoint anything with menstrual blood?
How does holding a black obsidian help earth someone?
I have too many questions.
May 5, 2020
This book is like a primer to witchcraft and the power that it can have if you accept it and believe it. A major component of this book is the idea that women (in any form) have an innate connection to the divine and the universe in terms of power and abilities. This book goes through different ways of accessing power and using intuition as well as using a suite of traditional tools such as crystals, tarot, herbs, candles, and spells. This book also goes through the seasons and holidays, and how to use those to help with your practice.
This book is small but packs a punch. At first, I was more curious about how Juliet Diaz could fit so much into this book! This book is packed with so much information about anything and everything you would want to know. It truly is a primer or introduction to witchcraft and what it means to be a witchy or witchy.
I love the vibe throughout this book and how the author genuinely seems to care about her readers and truly wants what is best for them. This book does not read like some arrogant attempt to distill something so innate and intuitive for a lot of people. Juliet's authenticity and care pours out of every page. I love how she invites the readers to follow her instagram page, which is full of extras and fun things related to both the book, and living a witchy life. I love when authors really want to share something they are passionate about, whatever that may be, and it just flows out of their writing.
This book is easy (and fun) to read. The language is simple and understandable and really does a great job getting the author's points across easily and with plenty of heartfelt meaning. At not point was I bogged down by this book or confused; I finished it in a day and had plenty of sticky notes and highlights all throughout for things that I found interesting or important. This is one of those books that is small but will give you plenty of things to remember or want to write down because of how honest it is.
I wish there had been more books like this around when I younger because as a teenager, I needed these kinds of pieces to help me realize my own power and importance. It is nice to read reminders of how crucial it is to listen to your intuition, especially as you get older and have more life experiences. This book is like your cooler aunt or your big sister there to help you when things may get a bit dark or you just need a minute to pick yourself up. Reading books like this isn't just about being a witch or leaning to do spells and rituals. It's about taking time for yourself and learning to love and respect the things that you may or may not need. It is very important to listen to yourself, because you probably already have the answer in some respect.
This book is small but packs a punch. At first, I was more curious about how Juliet Diaz could fit so much into this book! This book is packed with so much information about anything and everything you would want to know. It truly is a primer or introduction to witchcraft and what it means to be a witchy or witchy.
I love the vibe throughout this book and how the author genuinely seems to care about her readers and truly wants what is best for them. This book does not read like some arrogant attempt to distill something so innate and intuitive for a lot of people. Juliet's authenticity and care pours out of every page. I love how she invites the readers to follow her instagram page, which is full of extras and fun things related to both the book, and living a witchy life. I love when authors really want to share something they are passionate about, whatever that may be, and it just flows out of their writing.
This book is easy (and fun) to read. The language is simple and understandable and really does a great job getting the author's points across easily and with plenty of heartfelt meaning. At not point was I bogged down by this book or confused; I finished it in a day and had plenty of sticky notes and highlights all throughout for things that I found interesting or important. This is one of those books that is small but will give you plenty of things to remember or want to write down because of how honest it is.
I wish there had been more books like this around when I younger because as a teenager, I needed these kinds of pieces to help me realize my own power and importance. It is nice to read reminders of how crucial it is to listen to your intuition, especially as you get older and have more life experiences. This book is like your cooler aunt or your big sister there to help you when things may get a bit dark or you just need a minute to pick yourself up. Reading books like this isn't just about being a witch or leaning to do spells and rituals. It's about taking time for yourself and learning to love and respect the things that you may or may not need. It is very important to listen to yourself, because you probably already have the answer in some respect.
September 12, 2024
I like a lot about this book but be aware that some of the spells are wasteful in terms of their ingredients - who wants to buy a full jar of honey only to bury it later? It's only an introduction so don't expect anything particularly comprehensive, but you're directed to research the things that take your fancy so it's a good introductory overview.
The biggest downside for me was the inclusion of the Law of Attraction but that might just be my own issue with it and how much it has begun appearing in craft books.
Still, as with any book on the craft, take what you like and leave the rest.
The biggest downside for me was the inclusion of the Law of Attraction but that might just be my own issue with it and how much it has begun appearing in craft books.
Still, as with any book on the craft, take what you like and leave the rest.
April 5, 2020
Good philosophy
I wish there was more philosophy, less spells. Solely because the ingredients required are obscure and not easily obtained. Otherwise, I quite enjoyed it. Refreshing that it wasn't new age or wiccan.
I wish there was more philosophy, less spells. Solely because the ingredients required are obscure and not easily obtained. Otherwise, I quite enjoyed it. Refreshing that it wasn't new age or wiccan.
September 23, 2019
Witchery by Juliet Diaz sounds like an incredible, but I found it to be really disappointing, actually. Diaz covers lots of very different subjects, but only just touches on them. It's 243 pages long, but it's actually quite a small book, with a lot of space around the text, so you're not really getting as much info as you think you will. It talks about the Wheel of the Year and the different Sabbats, what kinds of spells to perform on those Sabbats, and various correspondences, and it also talks about the Moon and working with it, but there's very little as regards to why. There's no real information regarding correspondences; you don't know why you're using certain herbs or crystals. Diaz tells you how to create your own spells, and tells you to think about the correspondences, but doesn't actually give any.
On the positive side, it's full of very quick and simple spells, potions, teas and rituals to get the beginner witch started - but again, there's no real information as to why all of the above involve the particular tools. It does discuss cultural appropriation and terms to steer clear of, which was good to see, and there are some elements that I think will be useful to journal about, to get to know myself a little better. But Diaz believes in a lot of things I personally don't, and she focused a lot on the witch really digging deep into themselves and who they are, which was just a bit much for me, so I did struggle to connect to a lot of what she was saying. However, she does say not to trust any book - including hers - 100%, so she's of the same mind of pick and choose what works for you as I've read in some other books.
I think Witchery might be helpful along with a more in depth book, but I don't think it's going to do very much for a new witch on it's own.
On the positive side, it's full of very quick and simple spells, potions, teas and rituals to get the beginner witch started - but again, there's no real information as to why all of the above involve the particular tools. It does discuss cultural appropriation and terms to steer clear of, which was good to see, and there are some elements that I think will be useful to journal about, to get to know myself a little better. But Diaz believes in a lot of things I personally don't, and she focused a lot on the witch really digging deep into themselves and who they are, which was just a bit much for me, so I did struggle to connect to a lot of what she was saying. However, she does say not to trust any book - including hers - 100%, so she's of the same mind of pick and choose what works for you as I've read in some other books.
I think Witchery might be helpful along with a more in depth book, but I don't think it's going to do very much for a new witch on it's own.
March 1, 2022
So, unfortunately, this book wasn't the right fit for me.
I picked it up because I deeply, deeply love the Oracle decks that Juliet Diaz has worked on (the Seasons of the Witch series, as well as The Earthcraft) but I have to admit I didn't like it as much as I wish I had.
Witchery is aimed at beginner witches - which I'm not anymore, and so a lot of the information was irrelevant to me. But mostly, I was surprised by some of the stuff I read there. I felt like it was all lacking a lot (most subjects are just skimmed through) and sometimes, pieces of advice were just not right. I was unsettled to read that I should dispose of a spell with salt at the root of a tree. Or that I should put crystals in salted water (so many crystals aren't water and/or salt safe!). The idea of working with menstrual blood also made me queasy - though this one is a personal feeling.
What I mostly reproach this book is what I reproached a lot of books I read when I started my witchcraft journey: the lack of depth. I remember giving up on so many books out of frustration of reading the same things over and over (personal tips, personal recipes, personal thoughts) and experimented witches telling me to do my own researches. And honestly, when you're just beginning, it can be so hard to find the actual books of references in the multitude. Reading over and over again that you should just study when no one is giving you the material to actually study was so annoying. I felt like I was running in a circle and never getting anywhere. And reading this book reminded me of just that. We get long lists of spells with only rarely some basic explanation on why this herb or that crystal should be used (which could actually help find replacements when the ingredient is rare or very specific). It often felt like, having spent her life practicing, the author couldn't relate to someone entirely new to the craft who knows nothing... which still is the aimed public of the book.
So... I don't know. I'm more experimented now. I knew to pick what I need and leave the rest (a note that finally comes at the end of 'Witchery').
I also didn't connect with the author's voice until the very end of the book.
I still enjoyed the part about the Ancestors - that was very interesting to me and a subject I'm trying to learn more about but what I got from 'Witchery' was superficial (which feels quite saddening because I can tell that Juliet Diaz knows so much I just wish I could have learned more from her), and I found a couple of spells that I could get inspiration from, but that's basically it.
A 'sadly, no' from me.
I picked it up because I deeply, deeply love the Oracle decks that Juliet Diaz has worked on (the Seasons of the Witch series, as well as The Earthcraft) but I have to admit I didn't like it as much as I wish I had.
Witchery is aimed at beginner witches - which I'm not anymore, and so a lot of the information was irrelevant to me. But mostly, I was surprised by some of the stuff I read there. I felt like it was all lacking a lot (most subjects are just skimmed through) and sometimes, pieces of advice were just not right. I was unsettled to read that I should dispose of a spell with salt at the root of a tree. Or that I should put crystals in salted water (so many crystals aren't water and/or salt safe!). The idea of working with menstrual blood also made me queasy - though this one is a personal feeling.
What I mostly reproach this book is what I reproached a lot of books I read when I started my witchcraft journey: the lack of depth. I remember giving up on so many books out of frustration of reading the same things over and over (personal tips, personal recipes, personal thoughts) and experimented witches telling me to do my own researches. And honestly, when you're just beginning, it can be so hard to find the actual books of references in the multitude. Reading over and over again that you should just study when no one is giving you the material to actually study was so annoying. I felt like I was running in a circle and never getting anywhere. And reading this book reminded me of just that. We get long lists of spells with only rarely some basic explanation on why this herb or that crystal should be used (which could actually help find replacements when the ingredient is rare or very specific). It often felt like, having spent her life practicing, the author couldn't relate to someone entirely new to the craft who knows nothing... which still is the aimed public of the book.
So... I don't know. I'm more experimented now. I knew to pick what I need and leave the rest (a note that finally comes at the end of 'Witchery').
I also didn't connect with the author's voice until the very end of the book.
I still enjoyed the part about the Ancestors - that was very interesting to me and a subject I'm trying to learn more about but what I got from 'Witchery' was superficial (which feels quite saddening because I can tell that Juliet Diaz knows so much I just wish I could have learned more from her), and I found a couple of spells that I could get inspiration from, but that's basically it.
A 'sadly, no' from me.
March 21, 2020
Ich habe "Witchery: Entdecke die Hexe in dir" von Juliet Diaz an nur einem Nachmittag durchgelesen.
Sowohl das wunderschöne Cover, als auch der Klappentext haben mich so neugierig auf das Buch gemacht, dass ich es einfach sofort lesen musste, als es bei mir eintraff. Leider wusste ich schon nach nur knapp 30 Seiten, dass das Buch letztendlich nicht das ist, was ich mir erhofft hatte und mir somit auch nicht den Einstieg geliefert hat, den ich mir gewünscht hätte.
Kommen mir zuerst zu den Dingen, die mir gefallen haben: Ich mag sowohl das Cover, als auch die Gestaltung und den Aufbau des Buches sehr. Es ist mit viel Liebe gestaltet worden und dazu noch sehr übrsichtlich aufgebaut, was es einem erleichtert bestimmte Teile im Buch schnell wieder zu finden. Positiv zu vermerken ist, dass es viele sehr schnelle und vor allem einfache Zaubersprüche, Tränke, Tees und Rituale gibt, mit denen man als Anfänger beginnen kann - aber es gibt keine wirklichen Informationen darüber, warum all das in den bestimmten Kombinationen genutzt wird und wozu jedes "Werkzeug" benutzt werden kann.
Letztendlich hat mir das Buch jedoch einfach nicht zugesagt. Juliet Diaz spricht sehr viele verschiedene Themen an, umreißt diese aber nur sehr kurz und beschreibt dadurch eher grob worum es geht, sodass nicht wirklich viele tiefgehendere Informationen im Buch entalten sind.
Mir fehlte grundsätzlich immer die fragen nach dem Warum. Es ist zu oberflächlich geschrieben, mit vielen Ideen, Ansätzen und Herangehensweisen aber besonder was die Rituale, Kräuter, Kristalle u.a. angeht, hätte ich mir viel mehr Tiefgang und fundiertes Wissen gewünscht.
Fazit: Ich denke das "Witchery - Entdecke die Hexe in dir" eine nette kurzweilige Lektüre ist um die ganze Thematik rund um Magie erstmal grob einzuordnen. Jedoch ist es kein wirklich ausführliches Buch um in die Thematik einzusteigen.
* Ich habe das Buch als Rezensionsexemplar von Randohouse zur Verfügung gestellt bekommen.
Sowohl das wunderschöne Cover, als auch der Klappentext haben mich so neugierig auf das Buch gemacht, dass ich es einfach sofort lesen musste, als es bei mir eintraff. Leider wusste ich schon nach nur knapp 30 Seiten, dass das Buch letztendlich nicht das ist, was ich mir erhofft hatte und mir somit auch nicht den Einstieg geliefert hat, den ich mir gewünscht hätte.
Kommen mir zuerst zu den Dingen, die mir gefallen haben: Ich mag sowohl das Cover, als auch die Gestaltung und den Aufbau des Buches sehr. Es ist mit viel Liebe gestaltet worden und dazu noch sehr übrsichtlich aufgebaut, was es einem erleichtert bestimmte Teile im Buch schnell wieder zu finden. Positiv zu vermerken ist, dass es viele sehr schnelle und vor allem einfache Zaubersprüche, Tränke, Tees und Rituale gibt, mit denen man als Anfänger beginnen kann - aber es gibt keine wirklichen Informationen darüber, warum all das in den bestimmten Kombinationen genutzt wird und wozu jedes "Werkzeug" benutzt werden kann.
Letztendlich hat mir das Buch jedoch einfach nicht zugesagt. Juliet Diaz spricht sehr viele verschiedene Themen an, umreißt diese aber nur sehr kurz und beschreibt dadurch eher grob worum es geht, sodass nicht wirklich viele tiefgehendere Informationen im Buch entalten sind.
Mir fehlte grundsätzlich immer die fragen nach dem Warum. Es ist zu oberflächlich geschrieben, mit vielen Ideen, Ansätzen und Herangehensweisen aber besonder was die Rituale, Kräuter, Kristalle u.a. angeht, hätte ich mir viel mehr Tiefgang und fundiertes Wissen gewünscht.
Fazit: Ich denke das "Witchery - Entdecke die Hexe in dir" eine nette kurzweilige Lektüre ist um die ganze Thematik rund um Magie erstmal grob einzuordnen. Jedoch ist es kein wirklich ausführliches Buch um in die Thematik einzusteigen.
* Ich habe das Buch als Rezensionsexemplar von Randohouse zur Verfügung gestellt bekommen.
November 3, 2023
Ormai ho capito che qualsiasi manuale di stregoneria scritto negli ultimi anni è solo una copertura per il manifesto femminista, ma Wichery in realtà mi ha colpito molto rispetto a quelli che ho già letto.
In primo luogo è scritto in modo molto diverso. È quasi una lettera al lettore e ho gradito l’approccio e lo stile con cui l’autrice ha scelto di narrare le sue esperienze e dare consigli a chi si avvicina a questo mondo per la prima volta. È quasi come un dialogo amichevole davanti a una tazza di tè caldo.
Inoltre non risulta pretenziosa o “aggressiva” nelle sue credenze e sebbene la scelta degli argomenti esposti sia basilare, riesce comunque a essere varia e a svolgere il loro scopo.
Certo, alcuni punti mi hanno lasciato perplessa e la scelta degli ingredienti per gli incantesimi è alquanto costosa, ma questo è più un problema per chi vuole praticare davvero.
Insomma, la stregoneria non è certo cheap.
Per il resto, è ideale se volete informarvi sull’argomento o se volete un manuale che non confini troppo con la politica.
In primo luogo è scritto in modo molto diverso. È quasi una lettera al lettore e ho gradito l’approccio e lo stile con cui l’autrice ha scelto di narrare le sue esperienze e dare consigli a chi si avvicina a questo mondo per la prima volta. È quasi come un dialogo amichevole davanti a una tazza di tè caldo.
Inoltre non risulta pretenziosa o “aggressiva” nelle sue credenze e sebbene la scelta degli argomenti esposti sia basilare, riesce comunque a essere varia e a svolgere il loro scopo.
Certo, alcuni punti mi hanno lasciato perplessa e la scelta degli ingredienti per gli incantesimi è alquanto costosa, ma questo è più un problema per chi vuole praticare davvero.
Insomma, la stregoneria non è certo cheap.
Per il resto, è ideale se volete informarvi sull’argomento o se volete un manuale che non confini troppo con la politica.
April 27, 2019
In my quest to develop my understanding of witchcraft and different types of magic, I found myself drawn into the work of Juliet Diaz via her appearance on the witch wave; reading this book seemed like the natural next step to that progression. As I opened the book, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect, but I soon found out: it's literally exactly what it says it is.
I've been studying witchcraft for just over three years, but I haven't practiced in any way other than the occasional sigil. This book gave me the nudge I needed to get into the active practice of witchcraft, even if I didn't learn much new from it.
Diaz begins her book with an introduction, as most books on witchcraft, then with a ritual--this was new. The ritual in question was a simple one, requiring only the ingredients a practitioner may find in their kitchen (and perhaps some incense,) but it is marked as essential for activating the reader's connection with the knowledge in the book. I found this an incredibly good idea: so much of the time we find ourselves researching and researching and researching, but never actually doing. Perhaps it is the fear that we'll do something wrong, or simply the fact that it's something that we haven't done before; this was a great way to get over that first hurdle. After performing that ritual, I have found myself increasingly able and willing to do actual spells and to really engage with magic in a way that I haven't before.
This was the first of a series of strengths in the work that I found really supported young witches just coming into their practices. The book is well-written and enthusiastic, not getting bogged down in overly-complicated explanations or terminology, and does a good job of explaining the basic concepts behind witchcraft well, as well as suggesting basic exercises to get to grips with them in a practical way. I believe it was Kelly Ann-Maddox who spoke about the risks of becoming armchair-occultists; this book seems like the right foot to get off on to avoid that.
I also found, despite being familiar with most of the material presented, the rituals and spells offered to be extremely useful. Instead of declaring that there is only one spell for each intent, and listing all the exotic ingredients you need for it, Diaz offers a selection of different spells and rituals, all to the same end--some are more complex and require specific crystals and herbs, but others are simple, requiring only yourself and something to cleanse with. This makes the craft accessible to a new generation of witches in a way that many books previously haven't.
However, every book has its flaws, and Witchery is no exception. I have two main issues with the book.
One: I feel as if Diaz could've gone more into detail explaining the need for each component in the rituals and spells she offers. She does this with the tools for cleansing, however, it doesn't come up again. I had to ask myself if it would be okay to leave out a component to the earlier spell, something which could've been avoided had its significance been briefly summarised in the text. Of course, I understand why this was not done: it would require significantly more explanation than is perhaps appropriate in a book for beginners, though it still would've been majorly appreciated.
Two: Disclaimers. There is a small print legal disclaimer in the front of the book, but it would've been nice to have the standard 'herbal magic should not be substituted for regular medical care.' While I'd hope that it would be common sense for most people, I still worry.
Since most of my issues are "I'd love to hear more about why each of these things helps," I think what I'm really getting at is a desire for Diaz to write another book for higher level practitioners that really gets into the details of the practice. Of course, Diaz also has provided several sources of further exploration, so I'd assume it possible to find explanations there, though I shall miss her positive and welcoming writing style.
Overall, would definitely recommend for anyone new to the craft, but not as a definitive resource.
I've been studying witchcraft for just over three years, but I haven't practiced in any way other than the occasional sigil. This book gave me the nudge I needed to get into the active practice of witchcraft, even if I didn't learn much new from it.
Diaz begins her book with an introduction, as most books on witchcraft, then with a ritual--this was new. The ritual in question was a simple one, requiring only the ingredients a practitioner may find in their kitchen (and perhaps some incense,) but it is marked as essential for activating the reader's connection with the knowledge in the book. I found this an incredibly good idea: so much of the time we find ourselves researching and researching and researching, but never actually doing. Perhaps it is the fear that we'll do something wrong, or simply the fact that it's something that we haven't done before; this was a great way to get over that first hurdle. After performing that ritual, I have found myself increasingly able and willing to do actual spells and to really engage with magic in a way that I haven't before.
This was the first of a series of strengths in the work that I found really supported young witches just coming into their practices. The book is well-written and enthusiastic, not getting bogged down in overly-complicated explanations or terminology, and does a good job of explaining the basic concepts behind witchcraft well, as well as suggesting basic exercises to get to grips with them in a practical way. I believe it was Kelly Ann-Maddox who spoke about the risks of becoming armchair-occultists; this book seems like the right foot to get off on to avoid that.
I also found, despite being familiar with most of the material presented, the rituals and spells offered to be extremely useful. Instead of declaring that there is only one spell for each intent, and listing all the exotic ingredients you need for it, Diaz offers a selection of different spells and rituals, all to the same end--some are more complex and require specific crystals and herbs, but others are simple, requiring only yourself and something to cleanse with. This makes the craft accessible to a new generation of witches in a way that many books previously haven't.
However, every book has its flaws, and Witchery is no exception. I have two main issues with the book.
One: I feel as if Diaz could've gone more into detail explaining the need for each component in the rituals and spells she offers. She does this with the tools for cleansing, however, it doesn't come up again. I had to ask myself if it would be okay to leave out a component to the earlier spell, something which could've been avoided had its significance been briefly summarised in the text. Of course, I understand why this was not done: it would require significantly more explanation than is perhaps appropriate in a book for beginners, though it still would've been majorly appreciated.
Two: Disclaimers. There is a small print legal disclaimer in the front of the book, but it would've been nice to have the standard 'herbal magic should not be substituted for regular medical care.' While I'd hope that it would be common sense for most people, I still worry.
Since most of my issues are "I'd love to hear more about why each of these things helps," I think what I'm really getting at is a desire for Diaz to write another book for higher level practitioners that really gets into the details of the practice. Of course, Diaz also has provided several sources of further exploration, so I'd assume it possible to find explanations there, though I shall miss her positive and welcoming writing style.
Overall, would definitely recommend for anyone new to the craft, but not as a definitive resource.
April 15, 2022
Author's take on how she incorporated herbs/spells into her life as part of her heritage. I feel like it should have been titled something else such as Recipes & Rootwork. Since I felt like I was looking for something else I give 3 stars for missing the mark but still a good look at spells, positive thoughts and a bio of the author.
September 18, 2020
I'm not entirely sure--there's a lot here and an incredible amount of specificity. Can be used easily as a reference volume. Not quite what I was expecting, but useful. Looking forward to her upcoming book
January 29, 2021
Es interesante, sin embargo los temas suelen ser repetitivos. Algo que me hubiera gustado es que la autora agregara más información en lo que respecta a los hechizos y los días festivos, como por ejemplo ¿Por qué se festeja en ese día? ¿Por qué se usa tales ingredientes?, etc.
January 6, 2020
lovely, reaffirming, sweet 💕
July 13, 2024
Muito completo para quem está começando agora e quer um ssólido começo, mas acho que é melhor aproveitado para quem já tem algum conhecimento da bruxaria.
March 1, 2023
I found this book pleasant and informative. I absolutely loved the self care elements within.
Many of the grounding techniques used formed part of my CBT course a couple of years ago, so it was nice to have that reaffirmed. It also shows how widely these techniques can be used and the value of mastering them. The letters to yourself or those that have hurt you is also a useful tool I have seen in therapy sessions.
Many of the grounding techniques used formed part of my CBT course a couple of years ago, so it was nice to have that reaffirmed. It also shows how widely these techniques can be used and the value of mastering them. The letters to yourself or those that have hurt you is also a useful tool I have seen in therapy sessions.
December 12, 2020
The book cover looks cool, but I felt like it was a waste of time, on my part, reading it. What annoys me is how the author keeps talking about herself majority of the time. She should’ve made this her biography instead of a witchcraft book claiming to help other witches who are just starting out. I also personally don’t like the tone of her writing. If you are very new, haven’t read any stuff about witchcraft, I think this is an okay introduction? But there are other good beginner books out there too.
September 28, 2022
This is a really great witchcraft book for beginners or those just getting into the craft. The basics are well covered, there are personal stories from the author you may relate to, and even a few simple spells you might want to try for your first. Definitely a good reference book to have on hand for the beginner witch's library after you've read it all the way through.
June 23, 2021
I expected more, maybe reasons about why certain herbs should be used, what other options do you have, blah blah. Also a lot of the herbs were so difficult to find, I would read some names and pass the page because where I live it is impossible to find.
December 28, 2019
A wonderful read!
April 27, 2021
Loved it! I've committed to the meditation practices, so helpful!
March 8, 2022
I read this book cause I was looking for a modern beginners book for (young) witches, as I'm often asked for a recommandation. The books that I read when I started my path 25 years ago are nice, but a little bit outdated. I love the oracle decks co-created by Juliet Diaz, so I thought I would give her book a chance, too.
Witchery is a great book for beginners of all ages that are looking for a book with rituals, spells and recipes. You get all information you need to get started right away. The incredience needed is easy to get and affordable.
What I really like is,
that the rituals, spells and recipes are well thought out, practical and useable,
that the witchcraft discribed in this book is not wiccan, or attached to any religious beliefs at all
and that Juliet Diaz is very encouraging and commited to (self-)empowerment.
What I don't like is,
that the book sounds a little dogmatic here and there
All in all, a good and modern beginners book for (young) witches who want a non religious book about witchcraft with precise instructions so that they can start practicing right away. I would recommand reading it together with "Rebel Witch" by Kelly-Ann Maddox.
Witchery is a great book for beginners of all ages that are looking for a book with rituals, spells and recipes. You get all information you need to get started right away. The incredience needed is easy to get and affordable.
What I really like is,
that the rituals, spells and recipes are well thought out, practical and useable,
that the witchcraft discribed in this book is not wiccan, or attached to any religious beliefs at all
and that Juliet Diaz is very encouraging and commited to (self-)empowerment.
What I don't like is,
that the book sounds a little dogmatic here and there
All in all, a good and modern beginners book for (young) witches who want a non religious book about witchcraft with precise instructions so that they can start practicing right away. I would recommand reading it together with "Rebel Witch" by Kelly-Ann Maddox.
March 24, 2019
Juliet offers one of the most beautiful books I have ever read. I feel like this book has become a friend and companion. This book is an amazing entry into Witchery or a fantastic addition to even the most experienced witch. However, it is SO much more than witchcraft, this book is a guide to finding and living to your highest self for both witches and anyone else no matter how you identify or what you believe. I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in self-discovery and healing themselves spiritually.
What a beautiful contribution she has given the world. I cannot wait for more.
What a beautiful contribution she has given the world. I cannot wait for more.
January 19, 2022
This is a really cool little guide to starting with Witchcraft! I’ve always been curious about witches and drawn to them throughout my life, but there is so much info out there that it’s impossible to know where to start. This book brings a lot of ideas and spells and intentions together, and it was interesting to see Diaz’s perspective on it all. I love the idea of connecting more intensely with myself and with nature; learning about the seasons of the witch and the moon phases was fascinating. I will revisit this one for the individual spells, crystals, etc. when I need to!
January 23, 2020
"I wrote this book to help you build the foundations for connecting to self, to healing, to our magick, and to our craft"
Juliet Diaz certainly accomplished what she set out to do in this beautiful little witch 101. I really enjoyed this book. You can feel the soul in it. It's a helpful, unpretentious, relatable little guide. I really recommend this one if you are starting to learn about the craft. It does wonders for your mindset and doesn't come with any fluffy bullshit. Just truth and helpful spells. I really enjoyed it.
Juliet Diaz certainly accomplished what she set out to do in this beautiful little witch 101. I really enjoyed this book. You can feel the soul in it. It's a helpful, unpretentious, relatable little guide. I really recommend this one if you are starting to learn about the craft. It does wonders for your mindset and doesn't come with any fluffy bullshit. Just truth and helpful spells. I really enjoyed it.
March 5, 2022
3,5
Kurzmeinung / Hörerlebnis
Ich hörte dieses Buch auf englisch. Läge ich tatsächlich Wert auf die einzelnen Rezepte wäre eine Printversion als Nachschlagewerk sinnvoller. Die grundsätzliche Message, die das Buch vermitteln will, also Self-Care, Fitness, Meditation, Gesundheit, Zeitmanagement, Achtung der Vorfahren, innere Einkehr, etc. hat mir schon sehr gut gefallen und genügte mir auch zunächst.
Kurzmeinung / Hörerlebnis
Ich hörte dieses Buch auf englisch. Läge ich tatsächlich Wert auf die einzelnen Rezepte wäre eine Printversion als Nachschlagewerk sinnvoller. Die grundsätzliche Message, die das Buch vermitteln will, also Self-Care, Fitness, Meditation, Gesundheit, Zeitmanagement, Achtung der Vorfahren, innere Einkehr, etc. hat mir schon sehr gut gefallen und genügte mir auch zunächst.
May 20, 2024
A few years ago, my MIL gave me this book when I started diving into the world of witchcraft. I’m so glad I finally read through, as Juliet Diaz has created such a wonderful resource for those interested in witchcraft - even those looking for new self-help methods! This book will have a home on my Wiccan alter for many years to come. 🌸
December 21, 2020
This guide is so much more than spells, Sabbats, and chants. I loved her ways of expressing that Self Love and Law of Attraction is just as much a part of the craft as the rest is. Very informative, glad I own it!
January 13, 2022
An amazing guide for beginner witches, probably the best one i‘ve read so far! It touches on many important aspects of magick and uses accessible language. And it has many good spells and rituals and also a guide on how to create your own spells. Highly recommend and cant wait to get my hands on the authors other books!!
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