cover image HOW TO BE A WICKED WITCH: Good Spells, Charms, Potions and Notions for Bad Days

HOW TO BE A WICKED WITCH: Good Spells, Charms, Potions and Notions for Bad Days

Patricia J. Telesco, . . S&S/Fireside, $12 (208pp) ISBN 978-0-684-86004-6

In the same vein but less specific is Telesco's new book, which, despite its title, is a thorough (if brief) how-to guide to witchcraft rather than a primer for evildoers. Telesco includes lots of glossaries and correspondence lists, making this a handy reference for creative types looking to craft their own spells. She works through basic Wiccan ethics and practice in one quick chapter ("Rule Thirteen: Don't turn people into toads"); the rest of the book takes on divination, spells and curses, portable magic, and "food and beverage magic." (Sept.)