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Spells and How They Work
Praise
Originally published in 1990, this now classic work by the Farrars has been given a new lease on life by Crossed Crow Books, providing a whole new generation of witches the opportunity to learn from the wisdom of our Craft elders. Here they delve not only into a diverse collection of spells from many cultures around the world, but also into the philosophies behind them in order to illustrate a proposed mechanism for their effectiveness. Spells for love, problem-solving, protection are given alongside discussions on ethics and real-world examples of them being used, drawing from the experiences of various witches across the globe. While the book is specifically Wiccan-focused, witches of all stripes can benefit from the wisdom offered here, not necessarily intended to be used “as is” but as food for thought in the creation of your own magical workings.
—Storm Faerywolf, author of The Witch’s Name and Claiming the Witchfire
If there were ever a formative book which had a profound and lasting influence on an entire generation, then this is it. Spells and How They Work is as relevant now as it was in 1989; a groundbreaking book which not only lays out the principles and functionality behind spellwork but make these accessible to the modern reader, presented in Janet and Stewart's trademark straight-talking and 'no-nonsense' style. The book is full of folk magic together with a balance of grimoire-influenced practices, a true reflection of the sort of folk knowledge and written material at the disposal of the magic worker. In almost 30 years of practice, I still return to this book time after time.
—Vikki Bramshaw, author of Craft of the Wise: A Practical Guide, New Forest Folklore, Traditions and Charms, The Five Keys: A Study in Effective Magic, and other titles
One of the first books to really tackle the ins and outs of practical spell work, this informative volume quickly became a classic of its kind on first release. The history and background of spellworking is useful and interesting for both the beginner and more advanced worker and the explanations of magical techniques are clear and insightful. Wide ranging in scope, Janet and Stewart Farrar's explanations on how to ethically go about performing this particular form of magic is bound to be exceedingly useful for the latest generation of magic workers in this approachable new edition.
—Nigel Pearosn, author of Treading the Mill: Workings in Traditional Witchcraft, Blackthorn Whitethorn: Ways of Witchery, The Devil’s Plantation, Walking the Tides, and Wortcunning
Spell crafting is an art form that is captured perfectly within the pages of this legendary book. Even the simplest form of spell only works if you have the right format to support it. I do not say this lightly: this book contains all you need to know and then some. Not only that, but it is written by two of witchcraft's greatest magical practitioners. Anyone working with spell crafting already or wishing to start should grab a copy of this book; you will not be disappointed, and your spell working will leap to another level.
—Rachel Patterson, English Witch, High Priestess and best-selling author of over thirty books on witchcraft including: Witchcraft Daily Practice and Grimoire of a Kitchen Witch
Any book can tell you what spell to cast. Janet and Stewart Farrar teach you why spellcraft works. Their thoughtful exploration of symbolism, psychology, ethics, and practice elevates this from a spellbook into an education in the mechanics of magic. This is one of those rare books that not only shows you what to do, but why.
—Davezilla, author of The Magical AI Grimoire and creator of Tarot of the Unexplained
A bewitching guide to the arte of spellcraft for the neophyte and adept alike. Wisdom from our Elders woven into pages of experience and enchantment, coming together in a practical balance of information and instruction.
—A. Robles, author of The Gospel of Noah
