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Customer Reviews (1)

Beautiful and evocative
This deck served as my introduction to Divination. It is a small deck with images that combine art and photography seamlessly and beautifully. I find the interpretation of the animal cards in this deck to be very similar to those in the Druid Animal Oracle, but there are times when I still prefer this deck. The accompanying book has some nice poetry included in the pages describing each card. My only complaint about this deck is that the cards are not robust. I have used mine for years and they show wear quickly. The card backs have particularly lovely artwork. It is still my tried and true reliable oracle! ... Read more

Product Description
A magical collection of five wisdom stories from the Celtic Faerie world for adults or children of all ages - tales of Magical Beasts, Shapeshifters & Faeries, full of humour and wonder. Includes the enchanting Irish myth of The Children of Lir, the haunting Selkie story from Scotland and the whimsical Legend of the Oldest Animals from Wales. Set to exquisite Celtic music on harp, pipes, and penny whistle. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Wide-ranging appeal
"I listened the first time in my car -- with great pleasure. And was pleasantly surprised when my 6 year old grandson said, "Play it again. I have to hear it again!" Great tapes, and the appeal iswide-ranging."

Engrossing!
These sagas are engrossing, with vivid details of setting and costume that re-create the mystique of an ancient culture.Storyteller Mara Freeman adoptsScots, Welsh, and Gaelic accents for different characters, but herintonation is clearly for American ears.Gerry Smida'sbeautiful musicaltrack(featuring bagpipe, Celtic harp, whistle, and drum)is so finelyattuned to the stories that it greatly enhances their impact.All folktalecollections will be enriched by these tapes.

Too Good to Miss!
Some materials invite immediate attention, and such was the case with these beautifully packaged tapes. It was a pleasure to discover that their exterior quality reflected the care that was given to the production of thestories themselves. Mara Freeman, a British storyteller now living inCalifornia, has adapted the stories from a variety of sources, and much ofthe strength of the tapes is in her lyrical retellings.... and they arestories that are too good to miss! ... Read more

Product Description
Exerting all the primal pull of great storytelling, these haunting and lyrical tales activate ancient memories buried deep within our collective unconscious. From the sea goddess Fand to Cerridwen who can change her shape at will to the great warrior Queen Creidne, the women of Celtic literature are here celebrated for their ingenuity, spirit, physical courage, and deep instinctual nature.Featuring startling transformations and sweet revenge, bawdy humor and melancholy lyricism, the tales gathered in this collection celebrate primal female experience and the deep reverence the Celts had for all natural phenomenon.
• Celtic myth, Celtic spirituality, and Celtic history are all extremely popular now.
• This is the only book available which focuses on the women of Celtic myth and legend.
• Published in March, in time for St. Patrick's Day promotions.
• Powerful female archetypes will appeal to audience for Clarissa Pinkola Estes' Women Who Run With the Wolves. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Mesmerizing
The author tells these mythic stories with an immediacy that puts you back in the past and then outside of time altogether. The writing in these stores is so rhythmic you can dance to them.

Good writing
Not as moving to me as it was to the rest of these reviewers, and I bought it on their recommendations.I wished it had been.She has written a very creative creation of a Celtic creation myth using the Dagda. (Celts had no creation myth that still exists today.) She has a very melodic way of getting words onto paper.

Be swept away
I love Celtic legends, especially stories about goddesses and heroines.Unfortunately, the Celtic legends have been revised, sanitized, and edited over the centuries to the point that sometimes they can seem very dry--as if all the spirit has been sucked out of them.

And then there's _On the Edge of Dream_.

Jennifer Heath draws on the oral tradition of stories handed down by her mother, plus written sources, blending different versions of stories together into an enchanting brew.She doesn't just retell the stories the way we've always heard them, she spices them up, adds a dash of feminism here and there, and breathes new emotional life into them.I cry every time I read the scene where Pwyll, lacking the words to apologize to Rhiannon, simply carries her into the court, the way she has carried all visitors for the past seven years.

You'll especially like this if you liked Caitlin Matthews' _Celtic Love_.Both are collections of old Celtic stories told with new-found emotional "oomph" by women with true bardic talent.

A most outstanding re-retelling of Celtic tales!
The 15 wonderful stories in this book were written with the unique combination of many years of research and stories remembered from childhood (the authors mother & grandmother use to tell her these stories asbedtime tales). This "pearl" of a book dares to go where fewother Celtic re-tellings have gone. It portrays the women as equal amongtheir male counterparts in both mental strength and wit, but never in asuperior way. And yes, the characters in this book also engage (neverexplicitly) in that most wonderful of human pleasures--sex!

The colorfulstories within the pages of this book will stir the emotions and leave onelaughing and crying, angry and joyous, troubled and relieved and always,always yearning for more.

I truly hope that Jennifer Hearth puts pen topaper once more so that we may be delighted a second time around. To youJennifer Hearth I say BRAVO!

A Bold retelling of 15 Celtic tales
Jennifer Heath has covered new territory within the pages of her most fantastic book. Instead of penning another tired re-retelling of the Christian version of the 15 tales included among the pages, she dared toemploy the combination of ten plus years of research with imagination andremembrance.

On The Edge Of Dream spotlights the women of the Celts asequals among their male counterparts, both in their ferocity and theirlove, but never in a feministic tone. And yes, a couple of the charactersin her book actually engage(never explicitly) in that most wonderful ofhumane motion...sex!

If you're at all interested in gaining a newperspective on Celtic tradition, read this book, you will not bedisappointed. ... Read more

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Product Description
A new translation of the poems of sixth-century Celtic bard and shaman Taliesin that reveals the mysteries of Druidic practices.
* The first collection of Taliesin's major poetry with commentary by John Matthews, author of more than 40 books on the Celts.
* Reveals Druidic prophecy, methods of divination, and the rites, rituals, and beliefs that were essential to Celtic spiritual practice.
* Features Taliesin's works as keys to the Arthurian legends

Taliesin, Chief Bard of Britain and Celtic shaman, was a historical figure who lived in Wales during the latter half of the sixth century. Encoded within his work are the ancestral beliefs of the Celtic and pre-Celtic peoples. In addition, his verse is established as a direct precursor to the Arthurian Legends--and Taliesin himself, shaman and shapeshifter, is said to be the direct forebear to Merlin. Though the bard's work is steeped in the rich traditions of druidic practice, few have explored the revelations of his writings--the secret poetic language of the bards, revelatory information about divination, the ancient mysteries of the Druids, and the cosmological rites that were central to Celtic worship.

John Matthews, one of today's preeminent Celtic scholars, sheds new light on the poems of Taliesin and on the vast body of allusion, story, and myth that grew from his body of work and shamanic practice. With the help of fellow Celtic scholar Caitlin Matthews, the author presents completely new translations of Taliesin's major poems in their entirety, uncovering the meanings behind these great works for the first time. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Hard but fun read.
This books is a great read, although tainted with the stench of xtian thought. You could read it and still savor all the european pagan delights...

Celtic Shamanism?
A lot of people will tell you that there is no such thing as Celtic shamanism, however, moving beyond the labels this book will give you a good look at what a "Celtic shaman's" practice could be like.

Even if you do not buy that theory the translations of Taliesin's poems in this book are well worth the effort of buying and reading this book.

An important if difficult work
This is a complete study of all the poems attributed to the bard, Taliesin, and reveals the depth and wisdom of the poetry.It is well researched and meticulously translated and stands next to Fire in the Head by Tom Cowan as being important for modern practitioners of Celtic Shamanism.It is, however, a circuitous and difficult read, as all the Matthews works tend to be, and requires the reader to "stick to it" to work your way through.

I feel dreadful, but...
I've long respected John and Caitlin Matthews for their elegance of expression and willingness to turn to actual Celtic sources. In fact, it's partly thanks to them that I'm studying Celtic language and literature at a graduate level. But...there's no getting around it: the evidence just doesn't support John Matthew's conclusions in this book. The translations are...imaginative, shall we say, (and yes, I do know Old Welsh) The [probably] historical Taliesin's poems are available edited by the great Sir Ifor Williams and his edition is available in English as 'The Poems of Taliesin' trans. by J Caerwyn Williams. They are a) much earlier than the material presented here, and b) not mystical or pagan. In fact, one of the best ones, the 'Marnawd Owain' begins and ends: 'The soul of Owain son of Urien, /may the Lord consider its need...' and is thoroughly Christian. Full stop.
The 'druidic/shamanic' poems Matthews presents as being earlier are AT LEAST THREE HUNDRED YEARS LATER than the poems of the historical Taliesin, and whilst it's true that they draw on common Celtic tradition about the role and power of the poet, we CANNOT draw conclusions about pre-Christian shamanic practice [if there was such a thing] from poems written between 900 and 1200. Do the maths. It's the same with the Sovereignty figure. In what sense is She the 'Goddess'? Yup, the pre-Christian Celts probably worshipped their bit of earth as a goddess. Fine. But this descends through three to four hundred years of Christianity before it appears in writing. It's a LITERARY motif, not a pagan one. To give another example, when medieval German poets referred to 'Frau Minne', Lady Love, the tradition they were drawing on could be traced back through European culture to the goddess Venus/Aphrodite. But in no meaningful sense were they worshipping a pagan Goddess! It's the same with early medieval Irish writers invoking the figure of Sovereignty, and with medieval Welsh poets concocting poems - drawing on old tradition - in the voice of a prophetic superbard, identified with a historical poet who died three hundred years or more before thy were born.such a strategy boosts their own prestige.

The saddest thing in the whole book is the introduction, in which John looks forward to the publication of Professor Patrick Ford's work on the same material. This is now out as 'Ystoria Taliesin'. It's brilliant. Get them both, compare and contrast...you'll see what i mean.

Mythic view of the universe.....
I've been fascinated with myths and dreams and prophecy for some time, so I found John Matthews book TALIESIN THE LAST SHAMAN quite intriguing. The book has two parts: 1) an exploration of what is known or thought to be known about Taliesin who was probably a real person who lived in the 5th - 6th centuries in Britain as well as an interpretation of what Taliesin's works represent; 2) a collection of Taliesin's poetry translated by Matthews and his wife Caitlin.

Taliesin was probably British or Welsh although he might have considered himself something else-perhaps Cymry. The Romans described the inhabitants of what is today the United Kingdom as British, while the English referred to them as Welsh-their word for foreigner. Matthews refers to Taliesin as Celtic (Keltoi), a word the Greeks used to describe the people of northern Europe. Matthews describes the Celtic society that probably produced Taliesin and links his poetry to the Celtic view of the cosmos. He sees Taliesin as a "wise" man who penetrated the secrets of the universe and then attempted to share his vision via words.

Since I don't speak or read ancient Welsh or Irish, I can't pretend to know whether or not Matthews' interpretation of the Taliesin poetry is good or bad or even accurate. Although the book is not from a mainstream academic source, Matthews appears to be relatively scholarly, frequently citing from respected works and noting where his perspective differs from that of others. He also uses contextual material to locate Taliesin in time and space as an historical person. This secondary material seems to be consistent with various academic interpretations. ... Read more

Product Description
This publication is the first interdisciplinary collection of articles focusing on religion and mythology in Celtic studies. The first part presents various current viewpoints within the field from scholars of history, art history and literary studies. In addition to more traditional approaches, the other two parts of the book illustrate the possibilities of applying new theories and methods from the discipline of Comparative Religion to the analysis of Celtic materials. They introduce previously unpublished results of the international research network The Power of Words in Traditional European Cultures, and the research project Religion, Society, and Culture: Defining the Sacred in Early Irish Literature funded by the Academy of Finland at University of Helsinki. The present collection serves as a significant contribution towards a better understanding of issues that have not been previously brought together in a single volume. As such it is of interest to scholars in Celtic studies as well as other related disciplines. ... Read more

Product Description
Sunrise and sunset. Morning and evening. Waking and resting.

Your days are busy and unknown: each contains unexpected moments of joy and pain, struggle and hope. The time between your rising and sleeping is new each day.

The same was true for the Celts, though their lives looked different from yours. And in the midst of the uncertainty of days, they chose to meditate on truth, to draw near to the One who holds the sun and moon in his hands.

Calvin Miller invites you to do the same in Celtic Devotions. This thirty-day guide provides morning and evening readings and prayers to help you establish a Word-centered rhythm in your days. Centered on Psalm 119, an important psalm in Celtic praise, and including quotations from classic Celtic works, this devotional will guide your thoughts from morning to evening, helping you rest in God's truth when you're awake and when you're sleeping. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Mind bending
This book was purchased as a follow up for The Path of Celtic Prayer: An Ancient Way to Everyday Joy by Calvin Miller.

As an experiment, this has been "mind bending" in that it has introduced elements I would never have considered in prayer.Unfortunately, for me they come across as non-Christian.

Also, the prayers often have little to do with the particular topic introduced for the day.The book promises to pray through Psalm 119, but the verses seem disconnected from the topic and the prayers.

Be aware that the Celts lived in mortal fear, seemingly of everything (such as sleep).Then again, it was a different world when lives were short and life was violent.This is reflected in the book.

If you know what you believe and are interested in something off (way off for the American Protestent) the "beaten path," you may like this book.However, for the genuine seeker, there is little satisfying prayer here.

Daily 30-Day Devotional
This is a beautifully written, poetic book that one can use morning and evening with readings from Psalm 119 plus ancient Celtic prayers and spiritual insights added by the gifted author.I've used this small book as gifts on several occasions and all of the recipients have enjoyed it greatly.

Tea and Spirituality
I have settled into this routine: each morning, a cup of tea and a "day" from Miller's "Celtic Devotions." This ritual fills me, opens possibility, sometimes admonishes, always inspires.

A "day" from Miller's pages is arranged like this... an opening prayer or meditation, then Morning Reading, Morning Prayer, Evening Reading and Evening Prayer. I take the whole day at once, knowing myself; I rarely come back to things like this when night descends.

Miller's poetic reflections move me. Bits of Psalm 119, which provide the Morning Reading reorient me. The rhythms of Celtic life and thought and verse, oft quoted from the "Carmina Gadelica" (a collection of Gaelic songs) take me to another time then bring me home... longing, musing, praying, dreaming, hoping, resting.

So I take my tea, and I read. ... Read more

Product Description
An exploration of women's mythic past, with exercises aimed at awakening and integrating the archetypes within the female personality. The book examines the Celtic heroines and the stories that embody truths about nature, power, self-identity, relationships, love, creativity and death. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

A must read for every woman!!
I have read and reread this book so many times.I have given this book to several female friends and think every woman should read it.So much of what society tells woman condrodicts our own deep instincts and beliefs.This book is a great way for women of and faith, race or age to come to know and understand themselves.

The search for the Divine Child....
Every now and then I read an out-of-print book and wonder why it's out-of-print.The SILVER WHEEL by Marguerite Elsbeth and Kenneth Johnson is just such a book.I can't believe the content of SW is so esoteric most women won't understand it. Maybe it didn't get enough publicity when it was released to keep it in print or maybe those "really important" critics writing for mainstream news organizations ignored it thinking it was some kind of new age arcane book at best or "silly" feminist stuff at worst. If you read Marion Zimmer Bradley's THE MISTS OF AVALON, or if you're fascinated with Joseph Campbell's works, or if you consider yourself a fan of Jung, or if you are working a 12-step program, or all or none of the above, but are fascinated with the relevance of mythology for our "modern" age don't miss this book.

The authors, provide a test in the early pages (similar to the Myers-Briggs personality test) to help a woman determine her location in the process of finding the self (growing self awareness). Unlike the MB, however (which is often misused), this test does not pigeonhole you into a type, but rather helps you get in touch with your current phase of development.

Elsbeth and Johnson present a paradigm consisting of four phases: Queen, Sorceress, Woman Warrior, Lover.During the course of her lifetime, a woman experiences each of these aspects but not all women experience all aspects in the same order, with one exception, the Sorceress is the final phase. Although she experiences the phases of growth at different times in her life, one facet will be more dominant than the others at each point through life. You can probably work out the order of dominance for your own life. Perhaps you became a Queen (mother), divorced and became a Lover, then became single again and a Warrior Woman who earned her daily bread and protected her kids.

The end game of every life is to become the Sorceress (the male equivalent is the Shaman). Sooner or later, you will become a Sorceress because you are going to die. Only the Sorceress, Shamaness, or Saint, is capable of a mystical union with a higher self.

The authors make connections between the Celtic world view and the views of Zen Buddists,American Indians (North and South), the Kabbala, and other Indo-European mystical practices.The metaphors and myths of the Mabinogion presented by Elsbeth and Johnson can work to heal your life. I found many similarities between SW and ANATOMY OF THE SPIRIT by Caroline Myss, and I liked the SW much better. If you are pursuing the path of healing knowledge, this book can provide you with wonderful insights.

Find the missing pieces
This is a book for every woman who feels that part of her soul has been lost in the tribulations of life.For every woman who seeks a significant other to "complete" her, for every woman who feels the need to live vicariously through her children, and for every woman who feels like she is "asleep" as she goes about her daily life, PLEASE read this book.

Following the myth of Rhiannon as an outline, Elsbeth and Johnson lead the reader through a story of a woman coming into her power.Every woman has felt that she was forced to give up some precious part of herself at some point; that feeling of incompleteness can simmer and seethe, leading to depression, neurosis, or violence when she finally "snaps".Or, the woman can look deep within herself, face some tough questions, and come to realize that her "self" was never lost at all, and can be awakened through meditation and dreams.The meditations presented here are useful, but simply reading the text _without_ doing any of the meditations can be invaluable.This is a book of empowerment.Read it, and realize that you are complete in yourself--and in your new-found self-esteem, you won't need anyone else to complete you.And when you don't _need_ others, then you are truly free to _love_ them as people.

The use of the Celtic myths as a metaphor for the journey will draw in a crowd of mainly Pagan women, but any woman can benefit from this book.Read it, and find your power.

Amazing!
Got this for Christmas and I can't believe how good it is.I've been studying these Welsh myths for awhile (they are from the medieval collection of myths called The Mabinogion) and I must confess I've always been confused by them.But Arianrhod (SilverWheel) is my Lady so I've read and re-read the Mabinogian and scoured the bookstores trying to find out more about her and the other goddesses I love: Blodeuwedd, Cerridwen, Rhiannon, and Branwen.And then I get this book!I'm still gasping at how great it is. (BTW, though the emphasis is on the Welsh myths, Irish goddesses are included, too.)

The authors carefully take each myth about these goddesses (and several others) and explore the psychology behind them, helping you to understand each myth as a primal archetype within yourself.NOTE: It's not a history book that digs up more information about these confusing myths -- in other words, it doesn't say, "Arianrhod's myth as written in the Mabinogian is corrupt; here is the real myth from earlier sources."It deals with the Mabinogion straight on, with all its' twists and turns.But by sticking with the story as we have it and delving deeply into those archetypes, the authors give us amazing insights into the myths. This book allows us to experience the myths in a new way, not only by studying each myth indepth and applying it to our life-patterns, but by giving excellent meditations and exercises that take us on an actual journey.You discover things about yourself, and the myths become a part of you.I'm probably going to be working with this book for several years.Get this book if you want to learn more about Welsh myth, or if you want to do some very intense soul-work.You'll be a changed person!

A refreshing read...
An excellent book, unlike many of the other llewellyn books on the market, this one was well researched with reputable sources, and contained a great deal of wisdom that could help many women (even if they don't have celticleanings). Heavy focus is placed upon Jungian psychology and mythologicalanalysis, a little heady in places, but is well written and not toodifficult. ... Read more

Product Description
Introduces the Celts and their mythology, relating seven tales with their roots primarily in Ireland and Wales and placing each in historical and cultural context. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Showcases classic legends that arose from the Celts
Written for young readers ages 11 and older, Celtic Mythology showcases classic legends that arose from the Celts, one of the great founding cultures of European civilizations whose origins can be traced back to the second millennium B.C. and whose original homeland was near the Rhine, Rhone, and Danube Rivers. As the Celts engaged in a massive migration across Europe, Ireland, Scotland, and Britain, they took their traditional stories with them. Expertly and informative compiled and edited by Catherine Bernard, Celtic Mythology is the perfect introduction for young contemporary readers to the body of folklore and mythos that characterized the Celtic people. Also very highly recommended are the other fine titles in the outstanding Enslow "Mythology" series for young readers: American Indian Mythology (0766014118); Chinese Mythology (0766014126); Egyptian Mythology (076-601407X); Gods And Goddesses In Greek Mythology )0766014088); Inuit Mythology (0766015599); Mayan And Aztec Mythology (0766014096); and Roman Mythology (0766015580). ... Read more

Product Description
Fascinating, painstakingly researched study of occult beliefs and practices in Celtic Britain, with intriguing discussions of the origins of the Druids, Arthurian cults, the mystery of the Holy Grail, Celtic spells and charms, black magic, the Celtic spirit world—with its populations of banshees, leprechauns, brownies and a host of lesser phantoms—and many other topics. A compelling, erudite study that will appeal to anthropologists, folklorists, and anyone interested in the customs and spiritual life of Britain’s ancient Celts.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Great book on Celtic beliefs!
I own this first edition book, and I treasure it immensely. Lewis Spence makes ancient beliefs understandable.He covers the gambit of Celtic and early British folklore.Here you can read everything from the nature of Celtic ghosts, to their understanding of what occurs after death.Learn about druidism, bardism, King Arthur,the Holy Grail, and just about everything else that is related.

Spiritual, magical, mystical!
Author Lewis Spence spends a great deal of time trying to explain to the reader that he is not the authority on this subject, however the depth of the passages in this book contradict his claim.

The book offers readers a very detailed summary of various forms of the Magic Arts (Celtic spirituality, Arthurian Legend, Druids,etc...)....Rating of 4 stars only because there are just a small smattering of sketches/plates to accompany the text.

I've read in various interviews with Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant that this book inspired him to write Stairway to Heaven! ... Read more

Product Description
A world-renowned Celtic historian restores the classic Irish epics to their original sacred context.

* Restores the true Celtic morality and sentiment to these tales, which were expurgated by Christian monks.

* Reveals how deeply these mythic tales have shaped modern sensibility.

* Shows how the ancient Celtic tradition provides answers to contemporary spiritual needs.

Some of the most powerfully moving tales in Western literature are to be found in the epics of Celtic Ireland. Heroes and heroines like Finn Mac Cool, Grainne, and Cuchulainn are now familiar names, and their exploits have even been novelized for the contemporary reader. But the value of these stories extends far beyond mere entertainment. In Celtic myth the adventure of a hero and a warrior is not only an instinctive search for answers to the great human metaphysical problems, but also a palpable, even sensual experience. The dividing line between sacred and profane is forever shifting in ways that can be shocking, if not incomprehensible, to a person accustomed to the logical systems based on classical thought.

Distrustful of the written word, Celtic druids forbade anything involving their tradition from being put into writing. However, Christian monks chose to preserve all they could of the oral tradition on paper. Unfortunately, they did not hesitate to alter what they couldn't comprehend, or what their Christian sensibilities found shocking. In this collection of some of the most important narratives in the rich Irish tradition, Jean Markale restores these texts to their original form and reveals how the Celtic spirit is on the verge of reclaiming its rights. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

New ways to think about Irish mythology
Fond of Markale's work, as his mind seems to work like mine, I especially enjoyed this trip through the epics of Celtic Ireland.As a Druid and shaman, I liked his associations between the myths and druidry, shamanism, and even modern psychology.This book will make you think in new ways about the Irish myths, even if you don't agree with all his conclusions.

Plot Summaries, Little Substance
All Celtic scholars search for a decent translation of Celtic myths.The Epics of Celtic Ireland is not the book to provide this information.This book was interesting because it reflects Markale's own understanding and myths of the Celtic Irish; however it is a secondary source (i.e. his own opinions) rather than translations of myths.Rather than supply the actual myths themselves (which is somewhat implied), he recaps them and then provides the importance of the myths.... at least what he thinks is important.The only problem with this is that his version of things is explained using later political conflicts that the tellers and even the transcribers (early Christian monks) of these myths would not know (because they have not occurred yet).So if you are looking for a book that will simply provide you with an interpretation of the myths but no real substance (some of his support is flimsy and without allowing us to read the myths in question his validity is doubtful) then this is the book for you.If you are interested in gaining your own perspective of Celtic Myths than you need to turn elsewhere.

A treatise on Irish epics and legends
Celtic historian Markale provides a treatise on Irish epics and legends which includes plenty of spiritual insight as it probes how mythic tales have shaped modern beliefs. Students of Irish history or spirituality will find Epics of Celtic Ireland an excellent survey of early Celtic literature and spiritual beliefs.

Excellent presentation
This is indeed one of the best sources I have found relating to the simple retelling of the ancient, Celtic tales. Everything is explained with great simplicity, lending itself to be understood without sacrificing theoriginal context of the stories. I highly recomend it to those new intoceltic literature, and to those already versed as well. ... Read more

Product Description
Discover how Celtic shamanism cuts across all self-imposed barriers and has its own life-enhancing methods, techniques and traditions. This book deals with the practical methods of Celtic shamanism with stories and myths about the way of the shaman, and the theory and practice of Celtic shamanism. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

One of the Greates Tools for Learning Celtic Shamanism
One of my Shaman students presented this book to me and as I read it, I became very excited to find a book that can help those students studying to become Celtic Shamans. The meditation techniuqes are a big help.This book is on the top of my list of guides to Celtic Shamanism.

Realistic Review
By reading this text you will not become an adept at Celtic Shamanism.This text will provide you with decent information if you feel pulled to this path, as will texts by McKeowen, Cowan and Harner.Let us all remember that the word "shamanism" was unknown among the Celts.This word does describe in general terms some of the spiritual practises of the Celtic/Gaelic peoples.I am also including the present Gaelic peoples as well, for the tradtions of the file and senachie live on.

Disappointing
I bought this book with high hopes about learning genuine Celtic shamanism. However, I quickly realized that the Celtic connection was tenuous at best. The author pulls out bits of Celtic myth and draws parallels with what we know of different types of shamanism or shamanistic experience, but for actual practice the author pulls from other sources such as Michael Harner and then gives the practices a Celtic gloss to create "Celtic shamanism."

I still give the book 4 stars out of respect for the authors effort at synthesizing Celtic mythology and shamanistic practice into a workable system that may inspire or aid spiritual seekers on their quest.

THIS BOOK MUST BE THE GUIDE TO SHAMANISM!!!
In 28-years, I have not encounter a more easily read, used and real world book. Truly, this book WILL take an individual from determined, but raw, to adept.

Buy this book to safely step from one to infinity; a new Shaman wanna-be, towards a SHAMAN. You will understand EVERYTHING that you are doing, and the order of the practices are placed perfectly.

If I could give this book a 25 out of a 5-highest possible, I would! ... Read more

Product Description
The ancient Bards encoded their knowledge of the natural world of animals and plants and the power to heal, order and judge into teasing riddles that were told or sung, not written down. They believed they had powers of divination, shape changing and the ability to travel to the 'other world'. Inspiration and vision are the foundation of Celtic myth. Claire Hamilton captures the enchanting and often strange beauty of the tales they told. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Paul Lyden
I thought this book was just great.I am a Celtic Irish fan of music, language, art, religion, culture...you name it.I am always on the look out for Irish Celtic history books that seem authentic to the culture and this book was definitly that!!I am looking really hard for the book that goes with it, The Well of Celtic Wisdom, but it seems to be out of print.I can only guess that book would be just as good.As soon as it becomes available, I would buy them both!!:)

Classic Celtic Literature
Excellent book of classic celtic literature.I have enjoyed this book very much.Be careful removing the CD though, mine was scratched trying to get it out of the plastic, so I'm missing a lot of the "mood music" that would really compliment the stories, but for sheer reading pleasure this is a great book. ... Read more

Product Description
A fully illustrated account of the cross as a symbol and artefact in Celtic history, culture, art and religion. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Pagan, not Christian view
I was expecting more on the Christian crosses, as the cover shows.It is all how wonderful the pagans were, mother earth worshipers as you find today.No color photos.Mostly illustrations.Not worth the money.

Symbol of the millenia
The religion and lore of the Celts had a tremendous impact on the development of Western spiritual thought. Today, Celtic knots, animals, and other figures are experiencing a new popularity. "The Celtic Cross" is a lovely, well researched volume that describes the art carved upon the stone crosses scattered across northern Europe, especially the British Isles. The iconography and other symbolism, the development of the art form, and the spiritual meaning are all discussed in some depth. The photos are terrific, and a list of place to see crosses in situ or in museums is also included, should you wish to see a few in person.

A good starting point if Celtic history interests you
A really lovely book to own with gorgeous photographs and a text that is as interesting as it is informative.

Highly recommended. ... Read more

Product Description
Celtic Tree Mysteries


The Celtic Tree Ogham—Spiritual Messages and Magical Secrets from the Green World


Trees, and the magic associated with them, manifest the spiritual aspects of the Green World. Celtic Tree Mysteries revives the ancient knowledge and lore of the trees with a practical system of magical ritual and divination.
  Within the pages of this trusted reference guide, you will find comprehensive instruction and insight on the theory and practice of the Celtic Tree mysteries, including little-known and often misunderstood tenets.  
  Learn the difference between the Ogham script and the Tree Alphabet (and how to use them together for magical purposes). Decipher the physical, mental, and spiritual lessons of the twenty trees of the Ogham, and how to incorporate their wisdom into your life.
  Find out how to create your own set of Ogham sticks . . . perform Otherworld journeys . . . and discover the deeper, hidden meanings contained within the beautiful, ancient Celtic legends and Green World lore.

Amazon.com Review
Steve Blamires constructs for his readers a base camp in thehistory and use of the ogham before launching an expedition towardcomplete understanding of the physical, mental, and spiritual aspectsof the ogham and the trees they represent. Quite a quest, but Blamiressucceeds. Where other popular forms of magic can be slanted towarddevelopment of only one aspect, Blamires's study of the threefoldnature of the ogham insures that the body of practical magicalknowledge gathered on this journey will be useful in all levels ofexistence. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Another Excellent Resource for your Studies :)
I am submitting this review of a wonderful book as part of my own work in using it in my studies with the Henge of Keltria and my own studies of the Ogham. I hope this review is as helpful to you as the book has been to me.

This is a very deep book, considered as part of a Celtic Wisdom series offered by the publisher. And while I don't' particularly like how this publisher works, the books of old are still gems to be kept and held for the information they contain. This book is one such example. And while I say this is part of series, it could be construed to be a total lesson unto itself if the person reading it chooses to undertake the study chapter by chapter, as lessons, rather than chapters of pure reading.
This book is not about the healing aspects of trees, at least not like herbal books discuss. This book is about the use of the trees as methods of divination, understanding and the ways to utilize this information to glean bits of the world around us and beyond what we can see in the everyday. Some are taught that the Ogham is a writing system and others a calendar. Neither of these is correct and this book does help to dispel that myth.
This book discusses the Ogham, or as it is sometimes commonly know - the Tree Alphabet, working to dispel the myths surrounding the magical uses versus the historical uses of the Ogham. It begins in the first chapter with a nice discussion of Ogham's history and its historical significance. There is discussion of the various forms Ogham has been found in, its relationship to the alphabet and then on into its presence in the lore of the Irish and Scots-Gaelic peoples. The author next goes into a very brief presentation of why the Ogham could not be used as a tree calendar, very brief. The author ends the first part of the book by explaining, in detail or so it seems to a beginner, how the Ogham was developed. This is related to lore and language as well as symbolism. I can see where a working knowledge of the use of the language could be of a greater benefit than not knowing any of it.
I feel part two is the most fun part of this text. The author begins with lessons on the "levels" of the trees, or their status and station of rank. There is an exercise to begin with and a lovely tree ritual to perform as you go further and is to be done with each tree that is discussed. I think that is part of what makes this book an excellent introduction and envelopment into Ogham, you actually do the work and make it a part of your learning as it should be. It begins at Birch and goes to Yew. Sort of an A to Z of trees if you will. But this is not all trees, but only the ones of the Ogham. And while this is a concise listing and reading, it is by no means a beginner's guide, so to speak. It is and can be quite challenging! I have read it over half a dozen time in the years I have owned this tome and yet I still feel so beginner and find it hard to actually remember all that is contained. Like an onion, each reading reveals a new layer of understanding.
The third part goes into the combining of the trees as seen in lore and story. There are myths and stories given and then discussed to help the reader see where and how the Ogham played a part in life of our ancestors. This helps the reader of today begin to see the hidden tidbits of information given within the myths and tales themselves. Not everything is merely as it reads. Again the reader is given a new exercise series to complete, again with each tree. But this time the reader must learn and connect with the tree to find out its connection and relationship with the four basic elements. This helps the reader to understand themselves even better as well.
In the next chapter there is the discussion of the Frenzy of Mad Sweeney, a very challenging read to determine what is being said. I would call this a deep lesson in how to understand the hidden meanings. An excellent and challenging lesson in deed. The personal workings are shifted now from the outside connection, to bringing it indoors. A person again goes through all the trees one at a time but while inside, thus opening your home working area to these same energies, in essence bringing this energy into your home and thus into more or all aspects of your life depending on your employment.This section ends with a brief explanation as to why "other" trees are not included, and a very simple and clear explanation it is. It does not discourage one from venturing into this other realm of trees, but advises one to do so once you have a deeper understanding of how the traditional Ogham works and was intended to work. This work continues with a very brief and basic introduction to the use of Ogham as a divination form.The book ends with an excellent bibliography and discography. It also includes a listing of journals and resources for further study.
I found this book an excellent and one of the more accurate writings on Ogham, what it is and what it isn't. It doesn't mislead and tell of it being a purely magical system as so many other books do, but it does educate the reader to the true background and history of Ogham as the basis for a number of difference systems we see used today and all attributed to ancient roots. Truth against the world, if you will.I would recommend and have required it as foundation reading for students of the Ogham as well as Druidic studies. I have read it a number of times yet still feel like a novice when I reread it. It continues to offer me more and more and I highly recommend it.

Excellent source
This is the best Ogam book that I have found. A must have for Druid studies, and Celtic culture.

Finally, a well-researched book about Celtic tree magic!
When I first saw "Celtic Tree Mysteries: Practical Druid Magic and Divination" by Steve Blamires, I thought, "Oh no. Not another silly book about Celtic tree months, or made-up Ogham 'magick'."

But, as soon as I glanced at a few pages, I realized that this is an excellent and historically accurate study of Celtic magickal tree traditions.

As Mr. Blamires says in his introduction to Celtic Tree Mysteries, "This book is a detailed examination of the Tree Alphabet, one of the most misunderstood of the various forms of practical magic... this book is a practical manual detailing useful and workable information about trees, tree magic, and personal spiritual development."

This book begins with "The Origins of Ogham," the series of notches or lines that are carved into standing stones, providing us with important clues to their magical history. Mr. Blamires then introduces us to the Tree Ogham, with insights into its uses and combinations.

In Part Two, "Celtic Tree Mysteries" explains the three levels of threes--in the Celtic Triad tradition--and shares important information about each kind of tree that is used in this form of spiritual practice.

Mixing history, magic, and practical work, Mr. Blamires keeps the reader well-grounded while sharing profound Celtic spiritual mysteries.

If you've been confused by the thicket of popular "tree magic" and confusing Ogham lore, this book will be a welcomed relief. Like all of Blamires' books, this can border on dry academic reading, but if you are tired of fluff and fiction--and "magick" that simply doesn't work--you'll be as delighted as I was to find Steve Blamires' books.

No Druid library is complete without this book, and if you're a Solitary or eclectic practitioner, you'll be delighted with the useful and practical information in "Celtic Tree Mysteries." --reviewed by Fiona Broome for "Celtic Lore & Magic"

Everything you ever wanted to know about celtic tree wisdom.
Not only is this book an incredible introduction to the mysteries of the celtic tree system, but it's a thorough one at that! An absolute must have for every druid or celtic enthusiast.

Create your own
Steve Balmires' book is a well-researched and comprehensive treatise on the Tree Ogham.It also contains complete instructions on making your own Ogham sticks.Following these instructions is not an option for everyone.With careful planning, shopping, and preparation, you might be able to complete your set for under $10,000 and in less than six weeks.Depends on how many of the plants you find nearby.You will definitely have to travel to the UK and spend an extended time there.But it is possible-for a few very wealthy pagans. Still, a very well-researched and otherwise useful book. ... Read more

Product Description
Ancient mythologies are brought to life in the most comprehensive coverage yet produced. Contains 550 images, including illustrations of classic stories. Includes the classical mythology of ancient Greece and Rome; the fairytale myths of the celtic world; and, from Northern Europe, tales of Germanic gods, Nordic warriors, and fearsome giants. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Mythologyyyyyyy
I love Mythology. Specifically Norse in this case.
This book, just had it all. Every god and goddess I cared to read about. It was compact enough to fit in my hand bag, (yes my hand bag is bigger than most...and yes I carry mythological encyclopedias a round....how embarressment. :p ) For any one interested in the ancient myths from norse, classical, or celtic, this book is a one stop wonder. if it doesn't have the info you need or want, it has enough to point you in the right direction. There's also info in this book, that for whatever reason I never found else where, such as on internet sites or text book.
Very in depth, easy to follow. a great read and a great purchase.

A valuable resource for any library...
Greek, Norse, and Celtic Mythology are covered pretty thoroughly within these pages.The section on the celtic hero Cuchulain is one of the most in depth articles on him I have encountered.

This is an excellent resource.

Other versions have been released by Cotterell that cover Asian and Oriental mythology as well. ... Read more

Product Description
Gnomes . . . Elves . . . Sprites . . . Brownies . . . Centaurs . . . Merfolk . . . Dragons . . . Tree People . . . Trolls of the Light.

Gnomes in the Garden is filled with tales of the authors’ intriguing encounters with members of the Celtic Faerie tribes.The Fair Folk share their personal stories, spiritual quests, and adventures, so that you may learn for yourself what daily life is like in the Faerie realms.

The Faerie also take this opportunity to present some of their most sacred spiritual teachings.These Celtic Christian teachings shine a new light upon the Holy Grail and its deeper meaning for Humanity.

Animal Spirit Guides from the Faerie realm are on hand to provide the reader with step-by-step instructions on how to travel safely within the spirit realms through the art of shamanic journeying.

Here you will also find Merlin's prophecies for the future of Mother Earth, so you may begin to prepare for impending changes which will have a great impact upon your life and the lives of those around you.

The stories and teachings in Gnomes in the Garden open a gateway for seekers to explore the living world of the Celtic Faerie and walk the enchanted pathways of Tir na nOg, Land of the Ever-Young. ... Read more

Product Description
This large high quality calendar features the work of Irish Celtic artist Jim Fitzpatrick. Jim Fitzpatrick is famous Worldwide for his meticulous attention to detail and his unique insight into the Myths and Legends of Ireland. No man in Ireland has sharper awareness of what we inherit from the ancient past than Jim Fitzpatrick. ... Read more

Product Description

Product Description
Welsh artist Jen Delyth is one of the most highly respected contemporary Celtic artists in the world. Her debut book, Celtic Folk-Soul, illuminates the beauty, power and spirit of nature expressed through the ancient language of Celtic art and symbol: the voice of the Folk-Soul. This beautiful book is rich with Delyth's stunning artwork and is structured around a symbolic nine-chapter motif. From Roots/Elements to Stone/Mysteries to Beyond the Ninth Wave, Delyth pairs insightful explanations with her radiant artwork, Celtic myth and poetry revealing to us background, meaning and depth to the theme of each section. Celtic Folk-Soul takes us on a journey of discovery into the many aspects of Celtic myth and symbolism. This is an ancient thread which weaves back through the art, myth and poetry and connects us to a complex mysticism that expresses the interconnection and balance of all things. The book includes a foreword by Robin Williamson. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

beautiful
I lose track of time just gazing at the artwork in this volume.I can't wait to lose myself in its text. . . .

Awesome!!!
I have many books on Celtic Design.So I was reluctant to purchase another for fear it would not live up to the rest in my library.Therefore I was pleasantly delighted with this book.It's a must have for any Celtic Art fan!

Celtic Folk Soul: Art, Myth & Symbolism
This is one of the best books on Celtic Folk Art that I have ever read.I have many books on the subject but I really like the way that symbols are related into designs.Not many books do this.The symbols are also more simplified and are great for the beginner designer.Without a doubt this is one of the most extensive resource of all things Celtic.It also has some gorgeous paintings in it that utilize intense color and fantasy to the designs.It is a gorgeous book.

Stunning, luminous Celtic art
At first glance, Celtic Folk Soul: Art, Myth and Symbol is a gorgeous coffee table book that showcases Welsh artist Jen Delyth's contemporary Celtic artwork. Yet the book offers much more. Her text draws from her extensive knowledge of Celtic mysticism, not only from where and how it developed in history, but how by its very nature it continues to transcend time as it is expressed through the arts. Interspersed are many delightful treats: stories from Celtic myth, selections from ancient poets such as Taliesin, Amergin and Aneirin as well as modern poets like Fiona MacLeod, plus tidbits of folklore handed down generation to generation by the people of the Celtic nations.

In Celtic Folk Soul: Art, Myth and Symbol Jen Delyth beautifully illustrates the intertwining relationship that Celtic cultural heritage--past and present--has with nature. Absolutely stunning with shimmering colors and intricate rhythms, if art could sing and dance, it certainly does here. In addition, the artist opens the door to learn, explore and intuit one's own sense of time, space, spirit, and creativity through the synchronicity of Celtic art, stories and poems. Anyone who needs a lift from the mundane has only to open the pages to be carried away to a fascinating otherworldliness.

The Celts have produced wonderful art - but what does it all mean?
The Celts have produced wonderful art - but what does it all mean? "Celtic Folk Soul: Art, Myth, and Symbol" is a book of art and history, hoping to investigate the spiritual aspects of Celtic artworks. Going through the major pieces left behind by people who lived before Christianity reached the British Isles, and offering a look at how they interpreted both the mundane and spiritual worlds through their druids, "Celtic Folk Soul: Art, Myth, and Symbol" is a scholarly, educational, and awe-inspiring look at the Celts, highly recommended for both history and art collections. ... Read more