And, anyone steeped in indigenous European faith knows well that the Ancestors and Wights were, perhaps, even more relevant in the spiritual lives of Europeans than even the great gods were.  So, that the author includes these important spiritual figures in his devotional work speaks to his insight into his own faith.

I would recommend this book to many different demographics. It is designed for Asatruar (practitioners of Asatru, that is faithful to the Aesir, or Teutonic Heathens). However, any modern Pagan or neo-Pagan with an interest in the Germanic gods will enjoy this book.

In addition, anyone who has a mere cultural interest in Norse indigenous spirituality and Germanic culture would do well to peer through these pages. This is an age when European cultural heritage is under more threat than ever before. It behooves ethnic-Europeans of any faith, or no faith at all, to make an effort to explore and understand our cultural roots. And, I can think of no better way to do it than by reading the words of someone who has dedicated their heart and soul to the gods of their ancestors.

For more about the author, you can check out his blog, and follow him on Facebook. 

​White says that African Americans also had a fascinating spiritual tradition which included hoodoo and “conjure.” However, these practices were not documented as well in Pennsylvania as they were in some of the Southern states. It is the European American traditions that are focused on in this book, most especially the Pennsylvania Germans. ​

White begins by explaining that Pennsylvania’s early identity as a colony run by William Penn and the Quakers created an environment that was tolerant of diverse beliefs. This made Pennsylvania a desirable destination for immigrants seeking the freedom to practice their religions.

An influx of German groups brought various Christian sects to the colony and later to the state. Many of these immigrants brought a wide range of traditional folk beliefs and customs with them. These folk practices mixed Christianity with pre-Christian customs which had been common in Germany, making the Pennsylvania Germans a group known for both witchcraft and the folk healers who use their own magical means. 

Though this is a serious historical survey, White’s prose flows easily. His accessible writing style plus the fascinating subject matter makes this an exceptional book which is enjoyable to read. Anyone interested in historical witchcraft, Pennsylvania German culture, or folk tradition in general will appreciate this book. ​ Click here to view it on Amazon.

​​Since the goal of the book is to give the reader the tools that enable literacy in this magical tradition, the author included several blank pages in the rear so that the reader may construct their own spells and record them, making this a fully functional magical manuscript in the grimoire tradition.

While this book will appeal to people interested in the magical arts, I would also recommend it to people who are interested in Icelandic culture, more broadly in indigenous Germanic belief, and to those interested in human anthropology and world religions.