Book summary

According to this compulsively readable entry in the Llewellyn's World Magic Series, the Celts weren't just a bunch of mystical Irish savages. For one thing, they flourished all across Europe for centuries. Their magic, steeped in the four elemental powers of the earth, is attainable by anyone with an affinity for Celtic culture, a belief in their own energy, and the ability to align the two. D.J. Conway discusses the use of sacred stones, herb and candle magic, spells, seasonal rituals, and how to befriend intra-dimensional deities, powers, and elements. There is also a chapter devoted to the Celts themselves, their history, origins, style of dress, and cultural practices (women, for example, were respected as equals, allowed to be warriors and hold property). Conway's writing is practical and insightful, sidestepping fantasy-novel language in favor of discussing other dimensions and the power of herbs and ritual in a convincing context.