|
|
Review One This long awaited book is the second publication from dedicated druidic publishers Grey House In The Woods. Not as heavily metaphysical and in depth as its predecessor `The Voice Within The Wind' but a welcome addition to the druidic canon none the less. This is the first of two volumes that intends to offer an introduction to Druidry and its Celtic metaphysic and hopes also that it will make those who feel steeped in druidry reappraise their path, or at least the way they walk upon it. The two authors have a wealth of experience in Druidry between them and also their differing insights go to make this an intriguing book. This initial volume revolves around the `mentality' of being a druid and what it means, the history, the roles, the requirements. The second volume will be more of a practical guide in actually doing, not being. This reviewer is waiting for the second volume in earnest. It is too early to say, without the second volume, if together they will indeed form the concise `beginners guide' but (IMHO) the only thing that lets GHITW publications down is their dearth of diagrams, pictures, plates and graphics. That apart, I have few criticisms so far. Recommended for the bookshelf. This review first appeard in The Druids Voice Volume 2 Issue 1 © 2003 Review Two If you are looking for a guide to help you on your Celtic spiritual journey this book is the perfect place to begin. I have read other “How to…” and “Introductions to…” but none touched of the essence and substance of the Druid Way quite so clearly. The authors provide a practical and often humorous guide to stating on the Way. You are shown that there is more then fancy candles and long white robes involved, without loosing any of the mystical elements. This book is well balance for two reasons. Firstly they give an excellent walkthrough of all the basic elements of the Way, background, histories, the major festivals, myths, legends and rituals. However you can find those in any of the other books. What sets this work apart from all the others, is the way in which they look at the deeper issues: like truth and sovereignty, which are at the core of what it means to be a Druid or to walk the Druidic path. Secondly the authors come from different approaches to Druidism, which again provides an excellent balance to the text. One author works within a Grove, choosing to work with others, the other is a Hedge Druid, preferring to work on his own, showing new readers that there is more then one approach to practice their new spirituality. Finally I must complement the authors, for their grounded and human approach to dealing with how one goes about telling others of their new found belief. It is a tricky thing for someone to handle and is often open to misunderstandings, but the advice provided is sensitive and practical. This is a well-structured and finally crafted piece of writing. It is
both informative and inspiring and will be invaluable to you on your journey
through the forest. I can not recommend this book highly enough to both
those begining the journey or those simply wishing for a guide to renew
their interests. The Path Through the Forest is available at a price of £12.95 made payable to G. Talboys and sent to them at PO Box 8211, Girvan, Ayrshire, KA26 OWA.
|
