The Book of Wizard Craft: In Which the Apprentice Finds Spells, Potions, Fantastic Tales & 50 Enchanting Things to Make Review

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(More customer reviews)I'm 28 years old. I have no children. I don't even have any small children anywhere in my immediate family. And here I am, buying and writing a gushing torrent of praise for a children's book.
This is the best book in the whole world. No, really. Okay, except maybe the proper Harry Potter books, but. It's still a darn fine book.
The crystal ball lamp is really what I'm itching to make. Meanwhile, I've been busying myself with churning out wizard money, rings, and baby unicorn horns to dole out to Potter-loving friends. And you bet I'm going to try the Every Flavor Be--ah, I mean, All Flavors Gumdrops recipe posthaste. Can't wait to see the look on my boss's face when I slip him a tabasco one. Ahem.
Kids WILL need help from grownups for most of this stuff, but that's not a bad thing. And, if I may make a suggestion: if you help your kids whip up a batch of Dragon Blood, put it in little plastic bottles from the craft store--and glue the caps on. Messy stuff

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Generation Hex: Understanding the Subtle Dangers of Wicca Review

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(More customer reviews)I have been interacting quite a bit with the Pagan community over the Internet in promotion of Beyond the Burning Times: A Pagan and Christian in Dialogue (Lion Hudson, 2008), and as a result, one of my Pagan contacts asked me if I was aware of a new book by Dillon Burroughs and Marla Alupoaicei titled Generation Hex: Understanding the Subtle Dangers of Wicca (Harvest House, 2008). I had not heard of the book previously, and after contacting Marla and the publisher they graciously sent a review copy.
Generation Hex is a volume addressed to an evangelical Christian audience, and it is divided into two main sections, the first addresses "What is Wicca?", and the second moves to a response with "What Should I Do About Wicca?". The first section of the book involves nine chapters that address why evangelicals should be concerned about Wicca, its popularity, its origins, teachings and practices, its concept of the divine, female involvement in Wicca, the story of a former Wiccan turned Christian, and its concern for the environment. The second part of the book includes six chapters and a frequently asked questions section.
This book incorporates several positive features, including the authors' interviews with Wiccans as part of the research process for the preparation of the book, a recognition that many Wiccans and other Pagans have had negative experiences with Christians and churches to which Christians should be sensitive and self-critical, and a desire to move beyond and correct stereotypes of Wicca perpetuated by Christians. Yet despite these commendable aspects I found several elements in the book problematic.
Sensationalistic marketing
The marketing for the book, as reflected on the back cover, presents the volume as "an eye-opening expose of Wicca," a sensationalistic way to describe a treatment of a spiritual pathway that is open to examination by anyone interested in talking to its practitioners, reading their books, or consulting the growing body of academic literature on the topic. Since an expose is unnecessary, this sensationalistic tone used by the publisher fuels the tabloid-nature of evangelical treatment of new religious movements and detracts from the credibility of the volume.
Problematic use of demographic data
As Generation Hex sets forth its initial case as to why Christians should care about Wicca it does so by pointing to Wicca's increasing popularity. The book states that, "Studies confirm that Wicca is the fastest-growing religion in America. By some estimates, it will become America's third-largest religion by 2012 (after Christianity and Judaism)." In order to substantiate this claim the authors cite Wiccan author Phyillis Curott to the effect that there were "between three and five million Wiccans [living] in the United States by the end of 1999." The authors' use of demographic data is is fraught with difficulties in that the claim that Wicca is the fastest-growing religion, poised to be the third largest in the U.S. by 2012, can be traced to a press release by evangelical writer Steve Wohlberg. I have addressed this topic previously, but Wohlberg's press release makes the case for Wiccan growth by mere assertion, with no demographic studies cited to support the claim. In addition, Burroughs and Alupoaiccei include an endnote reference to this sidebar that points readers to the 2001 American Religious Identification Survey which estimates the Wiccan population at 307,000. Even if this statistic is on the conservative side, it comes nowhere near the number need to justify Wohlberg or Curott's claims as to the numbers of Wiccans in the United States. Unfortunately, Burroughs and Alupoaicei have engaged in a poor use of demographic data and whether it is intended or not, it will paint an inaccurate and alarming picture for evangelical readers.
Misinterpretation of popular culture
As the authors continue their discussion of Wicca's popularity, like many evangelical writers touching on the topic, they devote an entire chapter to the alleged role of the Harry Potter novels and films in the rising interest in Wicca. (Elsewhere in the book they share similar concerns over television programs like Angel, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and even the Disney film Hocus Pocus.) One of the chief concerns for these authors is the "disturbing witchcraft-related spiritual themes". Unfortunately, Burroughs and Alupoaicei repeat the hermeneutical error of many evangelicals writing on Potter which results in a misinterpretation of Rowling's works. As C. S. Lewis noted, a writer draws upon diverse sources in the non-fictional world in order to create a fantasy world. These sources may include folklore, myth, legend, and even religious elements. However, these elements take their meaning from within the story in the context of the fantasy world as defined by the author, not with reference to their external sources. With this interpretive principle in mind, turning to the Potter stories it is clear that Rowling has created a contemporary fantasy story involving a myth of witchcraft similar to the fairytale depictions of the witch from times past, an archetypal figure with no connection to real Wiccans in our neighborhoods. If evangelicals want to be taken seriously beyond their subculture they will have to exercise more caution in their engagement with fantasy media, and they will have to exercise even greater caution in their attempts at connecting the dots to new religious movements.
Wiccan Ritual and Belief
As the authors consider Wiccan teachings, much like their concern over Potter-mania, they also mention their concern over Halloween and its allegedly dangerous influences on American society. More careful reflection on the historical and cultural development of Halloween, and its present expressions in American culture, would have revealed the secular nature of this increasingly popular holiday, and its lack of connection in any serious way to the teachings and practice of Wicca. This misinterpretation of Halloween represents another hermeneutical error in properly interpreting an aspect of popular culture.
Also in this section of the book the authors present a "quick-reference guide" on Wicca's "core beliefs," which are then presented in summary form in relation to the categories of God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, the Bible, sin, salvation, angels, and the afterlife. Burroughs and Alupoaicei would have assisted their evangelical readers in this section by noting that Wicca is more properly construed as a spirituality involving ritual rather than belief at its core, and this is not mentioned in relation to the quick-reference guide, or in the later chapter on Wiccan belief. In addition, when discussing some of the beliefs found among Wiccans, in order to understand Wicca from an empathetic perspective of a Wiccan practitioner, it would have been helpful for the authors to discuss Wiccan beliefs using their terminology and priorities for belief rather than those of the evangelical. Granted, this book is written for evangelicals, however, it must find a way to accurately communicate the essence of Wicca in ways recognizable by Wiccans for evangelical outsiders.
Completely overcoming stereotypes
One final concern I had about this volume was its hesitancy to move completely beyond stereotypes of Wicca. As noted above, the authors do point out many of the stereotypes associated with Wicca and they seek to provide a corrective, but they don't accomplish this completely. For example, in a chapter where the authors discuss the surprises they encountered in their research for the book, one of the authors (Burroughs) addresses one of the surprises he encountered in terms of alleged links between Wicca, Satanism, sexual promiscuity, and child abuse: "I've found these assertions to be unfounded (at least in mainstream Wicca)." I italicized the last portion of the quote to draw attention to the issue I'm raising here. While Burroughs was pleased to discover that Wicca does not engage in the worst of its stereotypical associations, nevertheless, for Burroughs this appears to be the case with "mainstream Wicca," which appears to leave room for non-mainstream or underground Wicca, whatever those may be. A similar hesitancy to move beyond stereotypes occurs earlier in the book when the authors dispel the myth that Wiccans worship Satan. The authors correctly assure us this is not the case, and yet they include the additional notation that "Most Wiccans don't believe in the existence of Satan." My emphasis, again, but most? I have yet to encounter a Wiccan who does, and to leave this door open a crack represents yet another example of a hesitancy to completely dismiss the stereotypes about Wicca that evangelicals all-too-frequently frequently perpetuate, apparently even in books designed in part to do just that.
I really wanted to find this book more helpful for evangelical readers in its presentation of Wicca, especially with Ron Rhodes describing it as "a true jewel of a book" in the Foreword. In my view, while this book represents an improvement over many evangelical treatments of Wicca, Paganism, and other new religions, its shortcomings overshadow any positive elements, and for these reasons I encourage evangelicals to consider other materials for their understanding of Wicca and interactions with its adherents.

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The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells: The Ultimate Reference Book for the Magical Arts Review

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(More customer reviews)Destined to be a classic. The Only Book on Spells You Will Ever Need.
This Book is not a Book on "Wiccan Magick" , although Wiccans who are not fluff bunnies, and are more open mided to learning could use it, and benefit greatly from this Book.It is a book on Folk Magic, from Brujeria, Santeria, Espiritismo, From Latin America, To Egypt, and other ancient cultures, from around the world. Many of these Earth-Magico Cultures do not believe in the concept of "Karma" so many of these Spells would be shunned by Wiccans. With that said.. I Love this Book.I hope the Author does a similar book on Magical Ceremonies and Rites and Passages.
There are little books of spells, cheap book of spells, and so so book of spells, well this is the Ultimate Huge Tome of Spells. An Encyclopedia of Magical Spells from around the world, this book defiantly belongs in every Witches bookshelf. Over 1000 pages of spells, baths, infusions, the spells range from everything from Santeria, Strega, Vodou, Spiritism, Brujeria, Shamanism, and traditional Witchcraft. Unlike other spell books, this will defiantly be of great usage to its owner. One of the best Book of Shadows ever printed. The Tome, because it is Huge has everything from Banishing, Cleansings, Baths, Protection Spells. Everything from Seances, to calling on Spirits of Nature, from White Magic, to Black Magic, and everything in between. Here is a preview of the table of context.
Spell casting, - Ritual and Tools, - Animal Spells - Banishing Spells - Business Success Spells - Cleansing Spells, - Court case, Legal, Justice Spells - Death Spells (Yes there is much on Black Magic, for those weak of heart) Ghost, Necromancy, and Vampire Spells. - Divination Spells - Domination, Influence Spells - Dream, Astral, Nightmare Spells- The Evil Eye - Fertility Spells - Safety Spells - Gamblers Spells, and Charms - Happy Home Spells - Healing Spells - Hexes and Curses - Invisibility, and Transformation spells - Love and Seduction Spells - Luck Spells - Marriage and Divorcee Spells, - Money, Wealth, Prosperity and financial spells - Children Spells - Protection Spells - Psychic powers - Summoning Spirits - unblocking spells - weather spells, and trust me, so much more...
A person would have to spend allot of money, on many books and still would not get half of what this book has to offer.
I have to give much praise to Judika Illes; this book will defiantly be one I will use for many years. This is my first book by this author, and know I have to purchase her other works. But I can not recommend this TOME enough, it is defiantly a must have for all Witches, and brujos. For all that you get in this huge book, the price is excellent, and very affordable. The Spells are simple and traditional spells that were used by our ancestors and are still effective today. No where will you get a book like this. If I could give this book 10 stars, I would.

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A comprehensive reference book for witches, historians and anyone fascinated by the occult.

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Grimoire for the Apprentice Wizard Review

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(More customer reviews)The Grimoire for the Apprentice Wizard, in my opinion, is a landmark book. Zell-Ravenheart has taken the popular fiction and fantasy of today to produce a primer for a good life that will appeal to today's video game youth.
In my youth I was introduced to the principals and ideals taught in this book by Glenda the Good, TikTok, the Tin Woodman and all of L. Frank Baum's characters in the Oz books. Today, it's not so easy to get young people to listen. Using popular images from movies such as Harry Potter and the Lord of the Rings the Grimoire presents an astounding amount of educational information in an entertaining way.
It's a combination history book, motivational book, self help book and magickal primer all wrapped up in one.
As mentioned in earlier reviews, I did run into some printing errors. Some of the rune graphics were out of place. They were included as a separate insert sheet that I taped in the back cover. I can only assume that they will be fixed in later printings.
The book is not about Wicca or other pagan paths. One of the other reviews listed this as a problem. I don't believe it is intended to be a lesson in religion. By keeping the religious aspect out of the book, and presenting it in a "Harry Potterish" way it will ease the way for some parents to allow their children to read the book. Remember, some parents believe that any religion except christianity is an evil cult. Many of the "lessons" or "assignments, " some presented as games, will help a young person throughout their life. There are exercises to improve pattern recognition and memory just to mention a few.
This is not a fictional Merlin story. The type of wizard described in this book is achievable. The concepts taught are the same concepts that successful people all over the world have used to become the captains of industry, company presidents and good parents. That's why I purchased copies for both of my grandchildren. (That way they will keep their hands off my copy!)
I cant put it better than Griffin from Lafayette, CA United States did:
I highly recommend this book to both new and old readers alike. It is refreshing to see an author who not only claims the intention to provide an open philosophy that still honors its history and practice, but who succeeds in doing so.

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Besides the main author, the contributors to this Grimoire read like a "Who's Who" of modern magickians, and include such notables as Raymond Buckland, Raven Grimassi, Amber K, and Donald Michael Kraig, among others. These varying viewpoints and expertise make for a balanced presentation and, like a good school, for an ability to maintain interest levels by having changes of pace and style.Designed as an Apprentice-level program of studies, this book is aimed at the same folks who find Harry Potter so fascinating – those young (and young at heart) people who want to be more in control of their world. It is broken down into seven separate "Courses" – Wizardry, Nature, Practice, Rites, Spectrum Part 1, Spectrum Part 2, and Lore. It further contains a set of appendices – A History of Magick Time Line, The Wizard's Library, Credits and References, and an Index. Each of the Courses is further broken down into six or seven "classes" (a total of 45). Be prepared to put in some serious study time and effort if you want to take advantage of the material herein!Like Hogwarts, this book is arranged and scheduled to take seven years to complete. To the younger reader, I must say that there are good reasons for this, not the least being that one needs to become proficient in the basics before moving on. Many youngsters may be put off by the work expected of them in the early going. Where are the charms? Where are the incantations in mystic languages? Where are the rewards? Well, just like having to finish your veggies before getting dessert; just like needing to learn basic math before moving on to algebra; just like laying a foundation before building a home; you need to acquire the basic knowledge of the magickal world before getting into the "good stuff."As you work your way through this book (and make no mistake, you will work your way through it!), you may find yourself longing for the carefree days of school. The concepts contained within are easy to read, simple to absorb, and consuming to understand. If you think "Apprentice" means easy-to-do, think again. You will find yourself being fed a diet of ideas which may well force you to alter your perception of the universe.Oberon covers everything from creating your magickal tools to planting and caring for a garden (Anyone who doesn't see gardening as a magickal act should consider the transformation of a seed into a plant and on to your table.); from learning to survive in the woods to learning to recognize Elementals. And all of that before he even begins to address the actual practice of magick.Course One, Class One, Lesson Three ("1.I.3: Glossary" to use Oberon's notation system) is a handy glossary of types of Wizards which covers everything from Bards and Cybermancers to Wiccans and Wizards. If there is a description of a magick worker in the English language, it is in this glossary.Scattered throughout this book are tables of correspondences. There are a number of them, arranged in a variety of formats, and covering a wide range of topics. There are also a large number of illustrations, many of them (almost half, in fact) from the fertile mind and hands of Oberon.When he actually begins to discuss working magick, he takes the time to explain how and why it works. He relates it to things that all teens can relate to, and puts it firmly in the realm of things which are able to be done by anyone willing to put in the time and effort.He explains how to set up altars (both indoors and outdoors), how to construct shrines and henges, and other items as well. He includes basic instructions on a wide variety of healing techniques. He adds constant encouragement, in the form of reassurances that practice is required, and not to get discouraged if you don't get immediate results.This book is aimed at the total spectrum of Wizardry (like Hogwarts). It does not just cover the Ceremonial aspects of magick. It covers the spectrum from invoking angels and demons to doing simple divination; from creating planetary talismans to simple remedies for acne; and from alchemy to conjury (stage magic). Reading this book will provide a thorough understanding of Wizardry. Completing the work within this book will provide a thorough mastery of the basics of Wizardry.He divides magick into the colors of the rainbow and more: Meditation (aqua); Healing (blue); Wortcunning (green); Divination (yellow); Conjury (orange); Alchemy (red); Beast Mastery (brown); Cosmology (violet); Mathemagicks (clear); Ceremonial Magick (white); Lore Mastery (grey); and the Black Arts (black). Thus, by adopting tabards or robes of the appropriate color Wizards who follow this system will be able to immediately identify the specialty of those they encounter.Mythology is covered extensively, as are world religious views. While some may question their inclusion in a grimoire, it is vital for the apprentice to understand all that may be encountered in the performance of magick. Because of the vast amount of energy devoted to these topics over the millennia, they have a valid existence on other planes, and the magickian must be prepared to deal with them.As with any competent teacher, Oberon not only expects you to complete the assigned exercises, but also assigns outside reading and independent research. He lets you know early on that there will be both theory and practice involved in progressing through this work, and both are equally important. He makes every effort to balance his opinions and beliefs, which he is careful to identify as such, with the opinions and beliefs of others covering a wide spectrum.For those with limited cash available, he lists many websites where information may be found. Even the most cash-strapped individuals can (and SHOULD) obtain a library card and avail themselves of the resources available there, in the form of internet access, books, magazines, etc.Pagan Times (pagantimesedfor@neogenesis.com.au)

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J.K. Rowling (Blue Banner Biographies) Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought this book for my 3rd grade students to use in conjunction with our reading the biography of Helen Keller. I also wanted my students to get an understanding for the "author process." The students enjoyed learning about a favorite author, they were able to understand the language of the book, they could read it by themselves, and they could relate to how they feel about producing a finished piece of writing.

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Pokemon & Harry Potter: A Fatal Attraction Review

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(More customer reviews)This sort of thinking makes Christianity look plain silly. It presents an image of Christians as close-minded simpletons, easily lead by fear. And make no mistake, Arms is out to spread fear - it's remarkably easy to control people who are afraid.
As a Christian I am insulted that the very serious subject of good vs. evil is trivialized by comparison to a harmless series of books. The only crime J.K. Rowling is guilty of is getting kids' noses away from the T.V. and into books. As for Pokemon, referring to a cartoon as the work of Satan is simply moronic.

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A Supernatural Battle Is Now Raging for the Minds andDestinies of Our Children. This Is a Battle That Parents Can and MustWin.Violence, psychic manipulation, witchcraft, murder, demons, wizards,magic, Satanism, and the occult are but a few of the featuredattractions in the world of the ever-popular Pokemon phenomena and thecelebrated Harry Potter series.This eye-opening book is a stunning expose that penetrates the cleversatanic camouflage which attempts to conceal the true diabolic natureof today's most popular children's literature and games.Backed by the authority of the Word of God and his almost threedecades in the ministry, Phil Arms provides an electrifying analysisof the most commerically successful children's entertainment of thelast century.

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Ha li po te - shen mi de mo fa shi ('Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone' in Traditional Chinese Characters) Review

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(More customer reviews)Of course, JKR's first book was the most eye-widening book among the 5 books (up till now) and it's more exciting to read in mother language as it takes time for a chinese to read an english book. (I guess there's no need for me to explain the greatness of the Rowling books) So lets go back to the translation. It's nice (but not great) as this edition is translated by Taiwanese which use lots of slang language which other Chinese-speaking people do not understand. So, personally, I would suggest the Simplied Chinese editon for nicer translation.

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Magic Words: A Dictionary Review

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(More customer reviews)Magic Words is more than a dictionary - it is an impassioned call to writers, magicians and laypeople to bring magic back into their vocabulary. It is, in fact, an incantation calling forth the demons hidden within our speech, and no reader will finish this book without succumbing to its spell.
Let there be no doubt about it: Conley is on a mission to promote literacy, and his love of words possesses the cabbalistic reverence of an alchemist in pursuit of gold. For it is in the meaning of each word, of each letter of each word, that we discover the mysterious powers of language - or, as the author puts it, it is the inherent enchantment of the word that gives literature its magical influence. And this book will influence you in a most magical way.
Anthony Marais, author of "The Cure"


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Hour of the Witch: Harry Potter, Wicca Witchcraft and the Bible Review

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(More customer reviews)Months ago, I got into an e-mail discussion with Steve Wohlberg, the author of this book "Hour of the Witch" about Harry Potter. He then e-mailed an advanced copy of this book to me saying he hoped I would find it more convincing than a little booklet he wrote on the subject.
This book is mostly second hand research from a biased source. (See my book review of "Harry Potter and the Bible" by Richard Abanes.) Steve Wohlberg takes misinformation from Richard Abanes's book and transfers it into "Hour of the Witch."
How do I know this? Because in so many areas in Wohlberg's endnotes he acknowledges that many of his research basis are "Quoted by Abanes."SECTION ONE
Here are some errors which Wohlberg transfered from Abanes's book:
#1. Wohlberg, like Abanes, cites 2 interviews which J.K. Rowling gave to prove that she transfered occultism in her series. In one interview mentioned, given on October 12, 1999 for WBUR, a Wiccan told Miss Rowling that she did her "homework quite well." Wohlberg then continues to say that the Wiccan loved the books because they portrayed his beleifs positively and made his daughter comfortable with his involvement in the occult. This is misleading. I have the transcript of the discussion. The Wiccan did indeed tell Rowling, "You do your homework quite well," however, any unbiased researcher will be able to tell you that the only "homework" in the series is nothing more than folklore. And to top it all off, the Wiccan never said that the series portrayed his beleifs and made his daughter comfortable with his involvement in the occult. All he said was that he had Rowling's books and his step-daughter had in interest in them as well. He said it brought the family together. That's all----- The next interview mentioned was given on October 20, 2000 for WAMU's Diane Rehm. Wohlberg says that in this interview that Rowling addmited that one-third of her Harry Potter series was based on actual occultism. I have the transcript of this conversation as well. This never happened. All Rowling said was that one-third of her series was based on folklore from Britain. She said "Folklore." Not "Occultism." The two are not one and the same.
In his e-mail to me, Wohlberg told me to especially read Chapter 7, "The Potion," to see how J.K. Rowling weeves fantasy and reality togather. After reading the chapter my mental responce was "Oh, yeah. And your point is...?" His chapter is basically how Rowling weeves British Mythology in her books. So What? Weeving fantasy with reality or mythology is not a new or necesarily a dangerous idea. Even Christian authors do it. What makes Rowling so special? Because she writes books that kids actually like? (And by the way, J.K. Rowling is a Christian of the Church of Scotland). But, I digress, none of the mythology in Rowling's books are Occultic. If his definition of occultism was reality then wee would have to rid ourselves of "Lord of the Rings," "Narnia," and others.
#2. He cites an article from "This is London" entitled "Potter fans turning to witchcraft." However, this article (and I read it) give little or no proof to back up its claim. It's bassically an "I feel this is happening" piece. There is a small area of that article which Harry-Potter-Haters avoid (which I forgott to mention in my review of Abanes's book.) This article points out that minors under 18 are not allowed to join the Wiccan craft. So, it actually defeats its own case. It doesn't prove anything against Harry Potter.
Wohlberg also appears ignorant that polling data says that despite a large following that Harry Potter, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Charmed, and other magical shows, the occult in the U.S. and Europe, according to a ZENIT survey on cesnur.org, remains under 0.1%. That survey also mentions that despite a huge following of Harry Potter in Europe, the occult there is in decline.
SECTION TWO
The following are not Abanes Errors
#3. Wohlberg makes connections between Harry Potter and Wicca which do not exist. In one place he tries to make a case that Harry Potter teaches Wicca because it mentions Witch Burnings.
He also says that both Wicca and Harry Potter Witches are seen as gifted souls. Unfortunately for Wohlberg's case, this is not even mentioned in Harry Potter. It doesn't exist in the series.
He also says that Harry Potter teaches Wicca because Wiccans beleive using Magick to do good and to protect. This is a bogus connection. This makes the "Wizard of Oz" and "Lord of the Rings" look evil because the same thing happens there.
#4. Wohlberg then says that Harry Potter paints most Muggles (non-magical folk) as stupid because Harry's non-magical relatives abuse him. News to Wohlberg, Rowling is talking about one family here. Saying this shows Harry Potter is anti-muggle is like saying a movie about Pearl Harbor is anti-Japanese.
A common misconception that Wohlberg and other "harry Haters pass on is that Harry Potter contains the Wiccan beleifs. I have researched Wicca and this is not true and Wiccans agree with me. Allow me to cite reliable sourses which back me up:
The Following is an exerpt from a news article written by Ben Roy entitled "Wiccans Dispute Potter Claims." It is available at Cesnur.org:
"While an Alexandria woman is trying to ban the readingaloud of Harry Potter books at Bristol Elementary School because she says they promote Wicca, practicing members of the religion disagree.
Local Wiccans have come out against the claim the books promote their religion. They said the book is fiction, and does not represent their beliefs in any way.
" 'It really doesn't have anything to do with us,' said Peter Mather, an initiated Wiccan priest who lives in Plymouth.
Mather said he has examined the books and found nothing having to do with his religion.
" 'I've bought these books myself for my kids,' Mather said.
He said he finds no problem with them. He said a person who would ban them because they think the books promote Wicca is 'another intolerant person.'
" 'I've read these books, since I wanted to see what was in them before I gave them to my kids, and I must say that these books no more promote witchcraft than `Anne of Green Gables' promotes moving to Nova Scotia,' Mather said.
END OF EXERPT.
Dana Corby, a Witch on "Witchvox.com says, "Then the media wanted to talk to 'real witches' about it. And in every interview we told them that Harry Potter was a charming fantasy and a great read, but that (1) it does not even vaguely resemble real magic, (2) it does not encourage (much less teach) witchcraft or sorcery, and (3) it has nothing to do with satanism. And by the way, (4) neither do we."
Terry Paajanen, a witch at "paganwiccan.about.com says on her Harry Potter web page, "Wiccans worship both a God and Goddess, though there is no mention of any form of Deities at all in the Harry Potter series. Wicca is a religion after all, not just the act of casting spells. Why, there is no spirituality in these books and movies at all!"
She continues to say, "As I searched the Internet looking for pro-Potter sites, I was absolutely overwhelmed by the number of articles and sites dedicated to "exposing the evil truths about Harry Potter". What surprised me even more was the blatent lies and false information they contain. The biblical references used to back up their claims are questionable at best, and all of them are focused on the evils of magick and Witchcraft. The connection between J.K Rowling's books and Witchcraft is all in their heads. The 'experts' don't really know anything about Witchcraft at all, and it's a shame that they are the ones yelling the loudest."
Not proof enough? How about Wiccan Kerr Cuhulain telling anti-Potterite Jack Roper who said that HP is full of Wiccan concepts that it was "only full of what he thinks are witchcraft concepts" but are far different from "the reality of Wicca"? (Comment available at witchvox.com)
These are the Witchcraft/Wiccan practitioners talking. Don't tell me non-practitioners know more than they do.
There is so much more evidence which vindicated Harry Potter. if you want to know more, e-mail me at krissmith567@hotmail.com
____________________________
I cannot recommend this book, but I want to recommend "Looking for God in Harry Potter" by John Granger.


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Millions of children across the globe are enjoying the magical adventures of Harry Potter. Are these harmless fantasies or is a sinister spirit lurking behind the best-selling books? Hour of the Witch: Harry Potter, Wicca, Witchcraft, and the Bible scrutinizes these popular tales from a spiritual standpoint. Sorcery, séances and the supernatural are essential to Harry Potter's escapades. So parents should be aware of how all this wizardry influences their kids. Does being immersed in images of witchcraft have a lasting impact on an impressionable mind? Learn the truth behind Harry Potter and how to protect your children from being bewitched.

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Muggles and Magic: An Unofficial Guide to J.k. Rowling and the Harry Potter Phenomenon Review

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(More customer reviews)As an adult fan of the Harry Potter series, I am fascinated by Ms. Rowling and her talent as a writer which brought this magical world to life. When I purchased 'Muggles and Magic,' I looked forward to reading more about the author and the pop culture surrounding this phenomenon.
After reading Beahm's publication, I have to say that I'm disappointed. Essentially, this book is a collection of articles highlighting Harry Potter/J.K. Rowling facts that have been featured elsewhere. (I.e. newspapers, magazines, online, etc.) While some of the articles have good information about Rowling, there were times where reading them made me feel uncomfortable. I wondered how Ms. Rowling, a famously private person who is not afraid to speak up to defend her character, would feel about the clippings that delve into her painful past. She makes a point to dissuade such stories on her personal Web page, and reading them in this "fan" book seemed more like reading gossip than fact.
Other articles in the book simply have fraudulent and outdated information that Beahm hasn't bothered to research and update, such as that Dan Radcliffe has bowed out of all of the films after 'Goblet of Fire' (he hasn't, and is telling the press he's signed on for 'Order of the Phoenix'), and that J.K. Rowling's Web site doesn't feature a F.A.Q. (it does, here: http://www.jkrowling.com/textonly/faq.cfm).
Another problem I had with this book was the higgledy-piggledy way it seems to have been put together. There's no real rhyme or reason to the selections, and the collection doesn't flow but rather jerks, such as from an article about owning owls as pets to another about Joanne's involvement in a cancer charity.
Beahm is clearly a fan and I can tell he had fun putting this little book of Potter/Rowling odds and ends together. Had a little more research been done and a bit more time spent on fashioning the information together, this would be a fleshed-out companion worthy of the world of Harry Potter.

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The Worst Witch (The Movie) (2004) Review

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(More customer reviews)There are several reasons to buy this video, but none of the reasons have to do with this being a high quality film. It isn't. This movie is of very poor quality. It has cheesy special effects, including blue screen flying scenes,poor sound, and stupid songs. Fairuza Balk is delightful as Mildred Hubble, the worst witch at Miss Cackle's International School for Witches. Halloween is approaching, and the school is preparing for the visit of the Grand Wizard, a powerful wizard as well as heart-throb to the witch community. Mildred's arch rival Ethel manages to sabatoge Mildred throughout the movie, and an embarassing encounter with the Grand Wizard is inevitable, especially since Mildred has made the broom squad.
Don't buy this if you want a good flick.
DO buy this if it reminds you of how much you loved it when you were a kid, if you are a kid who loves Halloween, if you are a die-hard Tim Curry or Fairuza Balk fan, or if you are desperate to have something that will tide you over until the publication of the next Harry Potter book.
I love this movie. I'm just not sure why.

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Made in 1986. Like hocus pocus a bewitching tale of broomsticks and goblins. A family fantasy for all ages.Studio: Bfs Ent & Multimedia LimiRelease Date: 08/24/2004Starring: Diana Rigg Charlotte RaeRun time: 70 minutesRating: GDirector: Robert Young Iii

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Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (Full-Screen Edition) (2001) Review

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(More customer reviews)As a Harry Potter fan, I'm so happy with this movie adaptation. It's very true to the book (which is fabulous in my opinion, I don't know why some people complained about that), although there are some slight differences. The movie makers have done a wonderful job bringing Rowling's world on screen. The visual effects, especially Fluffy, ghosts, chess pieces, Quidditch game were done exceptionally well.
The second disc is all extras. I guess it was designed for Harry Potter fans and people who enjoyed the movie very much because it was assumed that you've watched the movie beforehand. The deleted scenes were a little hard to find since several steps have to be taken. First I had to go to get the key and take money from the Gringotts bank in Diagon Alley. Then purchase wand from Olivander's. Then return to the school and attend classes. Go to potions class and answer three questions. The questions were a little bit of a hassle for me. Answer for the 1st question: Aphrodel and the tube next to it (forgot name); 2nd question: wolfsbane and monkhood; 3rd question: snake fangs and porcupine quills. After the questions, select winged key by trying out a few. Then select the orange colored potion and you will see the mirror of erised. There are a total of 7 deleted scenes. Although some will say they are not worth the hassle, but I liked them. My other favorite extra is the interview. It was good to learn about the behind the scenes interaction of the director/producer/actors etc and production of the movie in general. They also mentioned something about the second movie.
Overall good buy. Worth every cent. Will rewatch it on DVD many times.

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In this enchanting film adaptation of J.K. Rowling's delightful bestseller, Harry Potter learns on his 11th birthday that he is the orphaned first son of two powerful wizards and possesses magical powers of his own. At Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Harry embarks on the adventure of a lifetime. He learns the high-flying sport Quidditch and plays a thrilling game with living chess pieces on his way to face a Dark Wizard bent on destroying him. For the most extraordinary adventure, see you on platform nine and three quarters!

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Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Full-Screen Edition) (2007) Review

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(More customer reviews)I think that when you take the longest Harry Potter book and turn it into the shortest Harry Potter film, that a large number of complaints by fans as to what has been cut will be inevitable after they watch "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix." Not that this means that the legions of fans will be bitterly disappointed by the film version, but rather that there will be regrets over not getting to see favorite scenes on the screen. For example, Quidditch is completely out of the film, denying Ron of his best moments in the sun (start singing "Weasley is our king"). So do not be surprised when your mind keeps shifting to what has been cut and distracting you from time to time while watching this summer's latest blockbuster.
When last we left our hero, Harry fell victim to a trap to bring back Lord Voldermort, which cost Cedric Diggory his life. The Ministry of Magic wants things hushed up, but Dumbledore tells the students at Hogwarts that Diggory was murdered and Lord Voldermort murdered him. As this fifth film opens Harry and his wicked cousin Dudley are attacked by Dementors. Harry uses his wand to defend them and is summarily expelled from Hogwarts for using magic in front of a muggle. The good news is that Harry gets reinstated, but the bad news is that the Ministry of Magic uses the opportunity to appoint Dolores Umbridge, Senior Undersecretary at the Ministry, as the school's new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor. However, Umbridge teaches only the theory and not the practice because she insists Harry is a liar and there is nothing the students need to learn to defend themselves from. Then things get progressively worse.
"The Order of the Phoenix" was the most maddening book to read, not because it was the longest, but because I detest Dolores Umbridge. As far as I am concerned she makes Voldermort look good, because he knows he is evil, wicked, bad, mean and nasty inside, while Umbridge thinks the ends justify the means. She is puritanical, sadistic and hypocritical. If there were not going to be children reading this review I would tell you what I really think of her. Suffice it to say, she makes me sick and I do not even take pleasure in loving to hate her, which is why my only requirement going into the film is that the Weasley Twins get their moment of glory when they become the disloyal opposition to the new order at Hogwarts.
Daniel Radcliffe continues to have the tote the heavy load in these films as Harry, with Rupert Grint's Ron Weasley being reduced more and more often to reaction shots while Emma Watson's Hermione Granger remains the Mistress of Exposition in these films. Alan Rickman as Snape remains pitch perfect casting and Gary Oldman as Sirius Black is also a joy to watch, but I discovered in this film that I really like Michael Gambon's performance as Dumbledore, mainly because he always plays up the character's intelligence and I find I prefer his interpretation to that of the late Richard Harris, forgive my heresy. Imelda Staunton does not look as much like a toad as Umbridge does in the book, but she captures the character's detestability from start to finish. We are always painfully aware how dangerous she is, whether she smiles or not. Also, Evanna Lynch steals more scenes as Luna Lovegood than Katie Leung does as Cho Chang, and it is certainly interesting to see Neville (Matthew Lewis) towering over everybody, with Ginny Weasley (Bonnie Wright) in the silent but strong role for the pivotal sextet.
After seeing this film I raced home and got out my copy of the book and starting cataloguing things that had been cut. Such comparisons are, as I suggested up top, inevitable for anyone who has read the book. At this point what I missed the most were some of the conversations between Maggie Smith's Professor McGonagall and Umbridge where Minerva verbally flaws the Inquisitor. The omission that I am focusing on the most is the whole bit about why Neville's family was a target of Voldermort (I agree with Harry: always say his name and thereby reduce its power), since that suggests implications for what will happen in the final book, which gets released in just ten more days. I also would have liked to have seen an over reaction to Harry discovering his father bullied Snape at Hogwarts. My favorite part ends up being the impressive wizard's duel between Voldermort and Dumbledore. Screenwriter Michael Goldenberg does a good job of whittling down Rowling's book and director David Yates does a competent job, but fans will simply want more. Also, we know what happens in the next book and all of the bad things that happen in this film cannot help but seem inconsequential in comparison. Plus, fans will be distracted by mining this film for clues as to what will happen in the last book.

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Lord Voldemort has returned, but few want to believe it. In fact, the Ministry of Magic is doing everything it can to keep the wizarding world from knowing the truth - including appointing Ministry official Dolores Umbridge as the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts. When Professor Umbridge refuses to train her students in practical defensive magic, a select group of students decides to learn on their own. With Harry Potter as their leader, these students (who call themselves "Dumbledore's Army") meet secretly in a hidden room at Hogwarts to hone their wizarding skills in preparation for battle with the Dark Lord and his Death Eaters. . New adventure - more dangerous , more thrilling than ever - is yours in this enthralling film version of the fifth novel in J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series. A terrifying showdown between good and evil awaits. Prepare for battle!

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