ABC Book of Shadows
 |
Witchcraft is the fastest growing religion in the U.S., according to ReligiousTolerance.org and American Religious Identification Survey (ARIS). Myriad books have been written on the subject for adults, but children have been all but left out of the equation, until now.
Katie Lydon Olivares recognized the absence of children’s books on Witchcraft and Paganism when looking for books to read to her 2-year-old daughter. She lamented this absence until taking on the responsibility herself, a Wiccan trait, taking responsibility for oneself and one’s actions.
“I wanted to celebrate the beauty of Witchcraft with my daughter, when she is most able to absorb its magick,” said Olivares. “She is a voracious ‘reader,’ and Witchcraft is a large part of our lives, so the book seemed an appropriate mission.”
Published by Itty Bitty Witch Works, Olivares’ book, ABC Book of Shadows, breaks down Witchcraft to its simplest terms, appropriate for children or those new to the path. It introduces the eight Wiccan holidays (called Sabbats), the Quarters (the four Elements of Earth, Air, Fire and Water), deities, ritual and more.
ABC Book of Shadows is presented in rhyme, with each letter offering a lesson on an aspect of Witchcraft, such as,
M begins Midsummer, peak of Sun’s power.
N starts out North, home of Earth, gnome and flower.
While young children may not recognize the magickal power of rhyme, they love the song-like quality of the text, which also allows them to commit the lessons to memory.
“Hearing a 2-year-old list the Quarters and discuss Ostara is pretty profound,” Olivares said. “Children deserve explanations in their language for why people are jumping over a fire or why Daddy is grinding up flowers,” Olivares said.
Adults appreciate the succinct explanations of complex concepts.
The vibrant watercolor creations by April Choi further illustrate the meanings of the messages. The layered images allow parents to explain the symbolism to the level of their children’s ability to understand.
ABC Book of Shadows, ISBN 0-9768573-0-8 is available from Itty Bitty Witch Works for $9.00 plus shipping.
- 5 x 6 inches
- 30 pages
- 26 full color illustrations
- Laminated board book on recycled paper
- Glossary included
Itty Bitty Home | ABC Book of Shadows
616 Jackson St., Bakersfield, CA 93305, 661-633-1220 info@ittybittywitch.com
© 2005-2007 Itty Bitty Witch Works. All rights reserved.
Site Design: Crooked Tail Productions
