The Way of the Hedge Witch: Rituals and Spells for Hearth and Home by Arin Murphy-Hiscock
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hedge witches were traditionally known as those who lived on the outskirts of the village. They had all soprts of knowledge of herbs, plants and various shamanistic techniques. Hedgewitches also used to travel to the spirit world and venture over to the otherside.

This book focuses on magic that can be done at home and most preferably in the hearth or the kitchen. The home is important which is why the author focuses on it. It is a place of centering and strength and hence the most important aspect of our life. In the old days of the Celts things centered around the hearth. It was the central fire where everything was kept warm quite literally. Everything centered around the hearth.

Now a days it is the kitchen. The book goes into some detail about how to set up an alter and a shrine and the difference between the two. A list of deities that pertain to hearth and home are listed as well. In the middle of the book are rituals that spiritually cleanse the house and protect it. Some general prosperity spells and over health spells are thrown in for good measure.

The last third of the book deals with recipes and herbs. I figure who needs recipes as anyone can access a cook book but the I guess of this nature would be complete without it. There are some great herbs and recipes and even some spell crafts which might be fun for little kids. But for herbs you really might want to check out Scott Cunningham's various books. A nifty little book for solitary home practice.


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