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Self-Initiation for the Solitary Witch :
Attaining Higher Spirituality Through a Five-Degree System
By Shanddaramon
New Page Books; ISBN: 1564147266
256 pp.
$21.95 CDN
The degree system in Wicca is almost always a hot topic. Traditions have different degree requirements, elevation standards, and expectations. Nonetheless there is usually a fairly standard progression of skills acquisition and Self-Initiation for the Solitary Witch pretty much follows it.
Although a book on self-initiation for Solitaries seems like a good idea on the surface, this one fails miserably in its execution. The bulk of the book is little more than another Wicca 101. Even the more advanced concepts like mentoring and group work are superficial overviews of material that has been far better presented in other texts.
Shanddaramon does present a comprehensive list of books for further study for each degree. However, they are presented in a bibliographic format at the back of the book with no indication as to how they relate to the study material presented in each degree.
Another frustrating aspect that I found was the creation of essentially a Wiccan holy trinity through the introduction of a third Deity: Child. Something that I suspect is alien to most Wiccan worldviews.
Lastly, Self-Initiation for the Solitary Witch is not really about attaining a higher spirituality as the title would suggest, but more about acquiring the skills generally used in Wiccan practice and worship. Definitely not the same thing.
A couple of interesting things do come out of this book like the suggestions for compiling and organizing your own personal set of magickal books, the approach to initiation and elevation rituals, and how some of the information on self-development and mentoring is conveyed. Sadly these alone do not make up for the shortfallings of Self-Initiation for the Solitary Witch and this book is perhaps better borrowed that bought.
(Reviewed Samhain 2004)
Raven is the Managing Editor of WynterGreene and a Solitary Practitioner.
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Book reviews © 2004. Permission to reprint, with full credit, must be
granted by the author. If you would like to reprint this review, please
email WynterGreene.
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