Every good reference book is both a product and a reflection of its time. The Dictionary of Magic & Mystery is not just another compendium or dictionary of occultism: it is a jumping-off point for further research. Here, the reader will find the ancient and modern interpretation for magical and mystical terms, together with explanations for the differences between the varied (and often conflicting) approaches to magic. You will also find both the common, the regional, and the obscure, because even popular usage can often distill the true essence from original meaning.
There are historical and archeological references that are essential in helping to put the past into perspective, whether we are talking about witchcraft, ritual magic, or the different paths and traditions from the East. Added to all this information are some of the sacred sites that are associated with our pagan past; together with thumbnail sketches of the well-known (and sometimes dubious) personalities who have been associated with the pursuit of magical knowledge throughout the centuries.
With over 3000 entries, together with 26 mini-features, The Dictionary is a must have on any writer’s shelf – in paperback or e-book format:
The Ancestors in Traditional Witchcraft
Black Magic, White Magic
Charms and Spells
Discarnate Entities & Extra-terrestrial Intelligences
Earth Mysteries
Folk Medicine: Nature’s Medicine Chest
Gemstones, Rocks & Crystals
Tree Lore: Hawthorn
Isles of the Blessed
Julian – The First Pagan Martyr
Karma & Reincarnation
Lammas and the Harvest Home
Magic – What is it?
Natural Tides
Traditional British Old Craft
The Power of Mythos
Qabalah
The Influence of Roman Gods in Britain
Seasonal Celebrations
Thelema
Underworld and Otherworld
Psychic Vampires
Words & Names of Power
The X-Factor
Yesod: Temple of the Moon
The Egyptian Zodiac
The Dictionary of Magic & Mystery – compiled by Melusine Draco : published by Moon Books in paperback and e-book format. ISBN 978 1 84694 462 8 UK£12.99/US$22.95
REVIEWS:
| THE DICTIONARY OF MAGIC AND MYSTERY The Definitive Guide to the Mysterious, the Magical and the Supernatural. Compiled by Melusine Draco (Moon Books/John Hunt Publishing £12.99/US$22.95 370pp) Melusine Draco originally trained in the magical arts and traditional British witchcraft with Bob and Meriem Clay-Egerton and their Coven of the Scales. This book does what it says on the cover, although some may feel it is not the definite guide to the subject. It is an A-Z of witchcraft, magic and occultism with over 3000 entries ranging from the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance to Zoanthopy (divination by observing candle flames). There are also 26 short articles by the compiler on various aspects of the occult. This is an excellent book for the beginner, and even those with more experience as it is impossible to know about everything. Recommended. Michael Howard. The Cauldron | |
| Sally Spedding | The New Writer I admit that I don’t normally ‘read’ dictionaries, but this one by Mélusine Draco really is as gripping as any thriller. The proverbial page-turner, with its tantalising introduction and often startling entries. Every fiction or non-fiction writer should give this wonderful reference book space on their desks, not only to show what lies beneath our present day, so-called ‘civilisations,’ but also as a conduit to what may well lie beyond. To step from their comfort zones and give their work ambition, fresh interest. A need to take the reader on more unusual journeys.I am convinced of a growing fascination with alternative spiritualities. Of other ways of living life and of dying. Melusine Draco, delivers her expert and painstaking research into all this in such a way that will surely ignite further enthusiasm. She takes us from the Argentinium Astrum – the Order of the Great white Brotherhood (Adepts) founded by Aleister Crowley; the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance; Alphitomancy – which will make you look at barley bread in a new light – to the Field of Reeds and Dead Man’s Teeth, to Sea Witches and beyond.I found myself making excited notes on Podomancy, Cramp Rings and the Angel of Death – and already wondering where these different springboards could lead. Within the dictionary format, the work is helpfully constructed into sections, ie; Black Magic, White Magic, while references for further research are relevant and not too copious. In a crowded marketplace where the ups and downs in publishing are ever more pronounced, I’m convinced this amazing volume will stir the writer’s imagination and help to get their work noticed. Unique and memorable. Sally Spedding: author |
Melusine Draco 