cover image Elemental Witch: Fire, Air, Water, Earth: Discover Your Natural Affinity

Elemental Witch: Fire, Air, Water, Earth: Discover Your Natural Affinity

Tammy Sullivan. Llewellyn Publications, $14.95 (232pp) ISBN 978-0-7387-0891-1

Our age of specialization extends to the spiritual paths of Witches. With this new work of Sullivan's (after Pagan Anger Magic), those who align themselves with the divine powers of nature can discern whether earth, water, air or fire best suits their sacred expressions. Sullivan says that elemental specialties are increasingly common in contemporary Witchcraft, and that seekers can use them to personalize their spiritual paths. She compiles a list of 44 thorough and probing questions to help determine affinities and offers rituals to meet the corresponding guides. Devoting roughly a quarter of the book to each element, Sullivan delves into the personality path, (cautionary) dark side, lore, mythology, rituals, recipes, stones and herbs connected with each element. Some information seems arbitrary, e.g. ""Her Water Witch home decor is usually unthemed with whimsy being the main rule,"" but generally Sullivan has pulled together a solid and fresh volume. It seems especially useful to have the mythology from far-flung traditions (Hindu, Yoruba, Native American, Hawaiian, etc.) pulled together under their elemental affiliations, thus creating something of a general interest read. However, this is not for rank beginners, for to fully realize the book, practitioners should already know such Witchcraft basics as how to cast circles and empower ingredients.