The Real Witches' Series
By: Kate West

Real Witches' Handbook
Paperback: 176 pages ; Dimensions (in inches): 0.54 x 8.44 x 6.21
Publisher: Thorsons Pub; (June 1, 2001)
ISBN: 0007105150
$14.95

Real Witches' Book of Spells and Rituals
Paperback: 320 pages ; Dimensions (in inches): 0.82 x 9.66 x 7.48
Publisher: Element Books Ltd.; (September 2003)
ISBN: 000715111X
$19.95

Real Witches' Kitchen
Paperback: 224 pages ; Dimensions (in inches): 0.60 x 9.74 x 7.40
Publisher: Thorsons Pub; (May 2002)
ISBN: 0007117868
$14.95
 

Despite her prolific writing, this was my first encounter with the work of Kate West and I am certain it will not be my last since I now am eager to read the other two books in this series:   The Real Witches' Coven and The Real Witches' Garden.  I would not have thought The Craft could be broken down into these comprehensive volumes while retaining so much to say about each individual subject.  West navigates these waters beautifully, providing more information than I could ever have imagined, particularly in the Kitchen and Spells & Rituals books.  If you are only able to have three books in your Witchy library, choose these three (and maybe Witches' Coven when I get to read it, if these are any indication).  How to be a Witch and be good at it are the themes aptly covered in an expert fashion throughout these books. 

West's writing style is familial and easy, taking us through an immense amount of information without ever lapsing into a taxing or overwhelming read.  Her gentle pen leads us through each aspect of being Craft, gently coaxing us to discover for ourselves how to practice the old ways in our own unique fashion, using her words as a solid guideline on which to build a rewarding and blessedly magical life.

 Five pentacles out of five

Review by Katrina Rasbold