Before You Cast A Spell

Before You Cast A Spell: Understanding the Power of Magic
By Carl McColman, New Page Books (Career Press)

Here is a book for beginners unlike any other. This small, entertaining and easy to read volume has the odd feature of not containing a single spell. Among the sea of Cast-a-Spell variety books that have little or no information in them about the “why” and “why not” of spell casting this book stands out like a diamond surrounded by coal lumps.

Mr. McColman quotes an old proverb that says, “Give a man a fish, and you’ve fed him for a day. Teach him how to fish, and you’ve helped him feed himself for a lifetime.” In a few short chapters, the author explores the ethics of magic in depth, something that is sadly lacking in other Wicca 101 books. He explodes myths generally assumed by a newcomer and replaces the myth with reality.

In several chapters he talks about what magic can and cannot do for you. He also explains why ethical magicians do not cast certain types of spells. He explains what magic is, where it comes from and how it works. He carefully explains why some spells work and others simply won’t. He talks about spirituality and a path to a magical life. And he talks about ethics, again.

The reader is given a strong foundation on which to base their magical work. Mr. McColman will give the most inexperienced Witch the confidence and skill necessary to apply magic to every area of their lives.

Advertisement