Recent Reading

My friend Byron's latest book is a delight and a joy. As a traditional and hereditary witch, she studies and practices Appalachian folk magic, or Hillfolks' Hoodoo as she calls it in another book. Seasons lays out a path through the wheel of the year, as ordered as some Christian liturgy, (indeed, borrowing the concept of Ember Days and Rogation Days--fair enough as the Christian tradition has done its share of borrowing from the Pagan.)

A perusal of this book may lead the reader, whatever their spiritual tradition (or lack thereof.) to more mindful observance of the changing seasons, with suggestions for seasonal activities. It's a lovely read, especially just before the new year, a reminder to slow down, to engage with nature, to see. . .

Another journey through the year is this beautiful gathering of work by printmaker Angela Harding. The nature observed is British (oh, those lovely hares!) and the artwork is exquisite.

This last book, by Zach St. George reminded me of how much I loved The Overstory and how it had made me see trees for the incredibly necessary beings that they are. Journeys shows how trees travel, (not quite like Tolkien's Ents) slowly attempting to spread to more favorable locations. It also documents the work of some of the people who are attempting to aid their travels, an increasingly vital mission in the face of climate change. It's a fascinating read.