(review originally published 2014, book purchased by reviewer)

My copy of this book has a different cover image than the one shown on Amazon – a family in front of a fireplace, lighting a candle. The newer cover shows a child holding two adults’ hands, with a pentacle behind them; the child appears to be standing on a person’s forehead….I don’t get it, and I’m not even sure that cover exists, because I’ve bought used copies and gotten the same cover I already have.

It was originally published in 1994 – before I even really knew there was such a thing as Wicca. It’s out of print, but used copies can be found for a reasonable price.

This book has 2 basic parts: Sabbats, and Rites of Passage.

For each Sabbat, there is an explanation of the holiday, recipes, suggested activities, songs, and a ritual. Each ritual includes some story telling or drama-based portions, along with more typical ritual framework ideas.

In the Rites of Passage portion, rituals are given for most of the sorts of rites of passage families will experience.

I like this book a lot – the rituals are more complex than some books have, which is definitely a plus if your children are a little older. It includes info on prayers, moons, altars, and living gently with the world around us. It’s meant to be practical rather than philosophical, and it does that well – it’s the sort of book you can come back to as the Wheel turns and quickly put together a celebration without a lot of stress.

I know I use it more as a reference than as a guide to anything, so if you’re looking for how to talk to your children about being Wiccan, this isn’t the book to start with. And the suggested reading at the end is listed out by chapter, making it a really great guide. There’s also a list of resources at the back, but since this was published 20 years ago, many of them are no longer around.

All in all, a great book, with great info.