With all due respect Brysing I do not completely agree. As new information becomes available, new books are needed to include it. Plus many do not agree with things in print today as archeology and science is ever discovering new things about old beliefs. A book 20 years back may not include all aspects of tradition but a singular view, whether Wicca, Druidry or Christian.
I did not say that new books were not needed.I was making a comment that merely because a book is 20 years old, it is still useful. Also, I am saying that the only reason for a new book is for the author to have new information on the subject.
That wasn't what I said. I merely commented on the fact that the book that you referenced as a point for her not needing to write a new book is dated, and there is room for a new book for the modern beginner.
Even the bible was last updated, I believe in 2006. When was the last time you purchased one?
There is always room for growth. I have very old books and am an avid historian, but if we don't acknowledge and keep moving toward the future, we become stagnant.
Being supportive of those called to contribute to our community is very important for all of us.
I know you didn't mean any offence,MC. All I am saying is that any new book should have new information, or a new aspect of old information.
The book I mentioned would be fine for a beginner, as it outlines everything a beginner should know about Wicca; and thus leading to further study.
I have read many books since finding or rather wandering on my path. I can honestly say that the majority of books written in modern times are usually pretty useless and just repeated knowledge, albeit watered down with new age nonsense.
The farrars were alexandrian wiccans I believe, there are other traditions....It has been a while since I read the book, but when it comes to first exploring witchcraft it is one of the best out there, take it from someone who as read the more popular authors- the ones bookshelves are filled with yet shouldn't be.
Most books in my library were written before 1940......I only buy new books if they have previously unpublished information....
@ Brysing / That makes sense. :-) It had been so long since I considered a Wiccan Path that I scarce remember the books I read and ceremonies I practiced. I concede the point to you.
Hadit, I agree on the Wiccan point. There are no better books out there. I have searched.
However the original post was about wanting to write about Pagan/Wiccan for beginners.
Encompassing all topics if I'm not mistaken.
We all know that not all pagans are Wiccan. A beginner could very much benefit from a book that gives a variety of information. Allowing the seeker a direction in which to follow.
Referencing the great books by the Farrars, Gardener, Crowley and many others. So should they choose the Wiccan path, they know which authors are great to further their knowledge.
And same for the pagan path...should they choose the Celtic or Norse path...or Hoodoo..or Santeria. Having a some information and direction is a good thing for beginners just finding their way.
We have to remember that not everyone has the automatic drive to research and dig deeper for knowledge, nor do they have mentors to guide them.
I personally don't want those people out there practicing magick without proper knowledge.
Writing a book for beginners that can point the way for these people is a something worth encouraging.
