Recommended Reading for Witches and Occultists
I have received repeated requests for a reading list. While I am currently in the process of compiling one, I wanted to share an initial selection based on my personal library. As time allows, I will continue exploring my books and sharing titles that have resonated with me over the years, as well as new discoveries I find enjoyable. Stay tuned for updates! Please note that the books listed are not in any specific order, but rather copied as they were found on my bookshelves. As I add more books to the list, I will also organize them in a more user-friendly manner.
NOTE: this list contains affiliate links where we make a small commission off of each sale.
"The Secret Teachings of All Ages" by Manly P. Hall: This is a comprehensive guide to ancient, esoteric wisdom and occult symbolism. Hall's encyclopedic work is a cornerstone in the literature of the metaphysical world.
"Transcendental Magic" by Eliphas Levi: Levi's seminal work is a cornerstone of modern occultism, bridging the gap between the esoteric and the divine, and asserting magic as the supreme science of love and knowledge.
"Three Books of Occult Philosophy" by Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa: Regarded as one of the most important books in Western occultism, this work is a testament to Agrippa's extensive knowledge of the magical arts.
"The Key of Solomon the King" (Clavicula Salomonis): Attributed to King Solomon, this grimoire has had a major influence on the practice of ceremonial magic.
"The Book of the Law" by Aleister Crowley: This pivotal book outlines the central tenets of Crowley's religious movement, Thelema, and is a cornerstone of modern occultism, as well as the inspiration to much of Gerald Gardener's Book of Shadows.
"777 and Other Qabalistic Writings" by Aleister Crowley: An essential resource for understanding the numerical and symbolic systems of the Qabalah.
"Liber Null & Psychonaut" by Peter J. Carroll: This work presents the fundamentals of chaos magic, a modern, results-focused practice that broke from traditional ceremonial magic.
"The Witch Cult in Western Europe" by Margaret Murray: This controversial work was instrumental in the formation of Wicca and modern witchcraft movements.
"The Golden Bough" by James Frazer: A monumental study in comparative folklore, magic, and religion, Frazer's work has been hugely influential in Western occult thought.
"The Book of Abramelin" by Abraham von Worms: This grimoire outlines a complex ritual for contacting one's holy guardian angel and gaining knowledge and power.
"Grimoires: A History of Magic Books" by Owen Davies: This comprehensive study explores the history, evolution, and cultural impact of grimoires throughout the centuries.
"The Occult World" by Christopher Partridge: An insightful guide to the history, beliefs, and practices of Western occultism.
"Drawing Down the Moon" by Margot Adler: A classic work on contemporary Paganism, this book delves into the diverse traditions and practices within modern witchcraft and Wicca.
"The Magus" by Francis Barrett: This 19th century grimoire offers a wealth of information on ceremonial magic, alchemy, and other esoteric topics.
"The Way of the Shaman" by Michael Harner: An influential work on shamanic practices and techniques from around the world, this book has helped popularize and legitimize shamanism in Western culture.
"Modern Magick" by Donald Michael Kraig: A practical guide to modern occult techniques and rituals, this book offers a hands-on approach for those looking to explore their own spiritual path.
"The Tree of Life" by Israel Regardie: This classic work on the Qabalah offers a deep understanding of esoteric symbolism and spiritual growth.
"Witchcraft Today" by Gerald Gardner: Considered the "father of Wicca," Gardner's book sparked a resurgence in interest and practice of witchcraft traditions in the mid-20th century.
"Magick Without Tears" by Aleister Crowley: A collection of letters from influential occultist Aleister Crowley to his students, offering insights into his thoughts on magick and spirituality.
"The Book of Black Magic" by Arthur Edward Waite: A study of the darker side of occultism, with a focus on demonology, witchcraft, and other taboo topics.
"The Mystical Qabalah" by Dion Fortune: A comprehensive guide to the spiritual teachings of the Qabalah, offering insights into its history, symbolism, and practical applications.
"The Golden Dawn" by Israel Regardie: An in-depth exploration of one of the most influential occult organizations in history, the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn.
"The Kybalion" by Three Initiates: A foundational text for many modern occult traditions, this book explores the principles of Hermeticism and their practical application in daily life.
"The Witch's Bible" by Janet and Stewart Farrar: A comprehensive guide to Wiccan practice, including rituals, spells, and beliefs, written by two influential Wiccan authors.
"The Black Arts" by Richard Cavendish: An overview of various occult practices throughout history, including divination, ritual magic, and sorcery.
"The Book of Thoth" by Aleister Crowley: A guide to tarot and its use as a tool for spiritual development, written by one of the most infamous occultists in history.
"The Complete Magician's Tables" by Stephen Skinner: An essential reference for any magician or occult practitioner, detailing correspondences and associations for various systems including astrology, numerology, and Hebrew mysticism.
"Grimoire for the Apprentice Wizard" by Oberon Zell-Ravenheart: A practical guide for aspiring wizards, drawing on various traditions and offering exercises and rituals for personal growth and magical development.
"Initiation into Hermetics" by Franz Bardon: A comprehensive guide to practical Hermetic magic, offering step-by-step instruction for spiritual development and mastery over the elements.
"The Spiral Dance" by Starhawk: A classic feminist Wiccan text, exploring the intersection of spirituality and activism and offering rituals for personal and collective empowerment.
"Paths of Wisdom" by John Michael Greer: An exploration of the Western mystery tradition, including esoteric philosophy, alchemy, and qabalah, with practical exercises for readers to deepen their understanding and practice.
"Lucifer Rising" by Gavin Baddeley: A cultural history of Satanism, providing insight into the various movements and individuals who have embraced the figure of Lucifer as a symbol of rebellion and self-determination.
"Witchcraft for Tomorrow" by Doreen Valiente: A guide to traditional witchcraft practices, incorporating elements from ceremonial magic, folklore, and psychology to create a modern synthesis of ancient wisdom.
"Magick in Theory and Practice" by Aleister Crowley: A foundational text for modern occultism, offering a theoretical framework for magical work and practical exercises to develop spiritual consciousness and power.
"The Inner Temple of Witchcraft" by Christopher Penczak: An exploration of the inner realms of magic, including meditation, energy work, and spellcraft, with exercises and rituals to deepen one's connection to the divine and the self.
"The Secret Lore of Magic" by Idries Shah: A collection of stories and teachings from Sufi mystics, offering insight into the esoteric principles behind magical practices and the power of imagination and intention.
"The Power of Myth" by Joseph Campbell: An exploration of the universal themes and archetypes found in myths and religions around the world, offering insights into the human psyche and the power of storytelling to shape our understanding of the world.
"The Way of Zen" by Alan Watts: A philosophical exploration of Zen Buddhism, examining its principles and practices and their relevance to modern life, with practical exercises for readers to incorporate into their daily lives.
"The Hero with a Thousand Faces" by Joseph Campbell: An analysis of the hero's journey in myth and literature, exploring the universal stages of spiritual transformation and the human need for meaning and purpose.
"Psychic Self-Defense" by Dion Fortune: A practical guide that teaches readers how to protect themselves from psychic attacks. Fortune, with her in-depth knowledge of esotericism, explores various methods of defense and offers valuable advice on tackling psychic vulnerabilities.
"The Sea Priestess" by Dion Fortune: A transformative novel that delves into pagan spirituality, exploring the mysteries of the sea and the moon. This narrative demonstrates Fortune's profound understanding of practical magic and her ability to weave it into a compelling story.
"Mastering Witchcraft" by Paul Huson: A comprehensive guide to traditional witchcraft practices, rooted in European folk magic and mythology. Huson explores topics such as spellcasting, divination, herbalism, and the role of the witch in society.
"The Book of Fallen Angels" by Michael Howard: This remarkable work explores the darker side of folkloric tradition, providing an intimate understanding of fallen angels and their cultural significance.
"Modern Wicca: A History From Gerald Gardner to the Present" by Michael Howard: A comprehensive historical overview of the evolution of Wicca, from its inception to its current state. Howard's profound understanding of the subject is evident in his exploration of the different branches of Wicca and their practices.