You are viewing your 1 free article this month. Login to read more articles.
A book that commemorates the impact magic has played on English culture over the years is being published by John Murray to coincide with this year's summer solstice. The Book of English Magic explores the history of magic in Britain, which editor Kate Parkin described as "the most magical place in the world" with movements from the druids to Wicca. It also offers readers the opportunity to get involved, including making "simple" spells, discovering ley lines or creating a horoscope reading. There are also chapters on alchemy, tarot and numerology.
Parkin said: "We are used to magic playing a big part in our reading—with Tolkien, C S Lewis, J K Rowling and the like—but lots of people have forgotten what an enormous part it has played in our culture. What this book shows is that it is deeply embedded in the English psyche."
The publisher said England was home to more practising wizards now than at any other time. But the book is aimed at the general reader, and Parkin said it would appeal to "the whole family" as well as avid readers of series such as The Lord of the Rings or Harry Potter.
She added: "There is an resurgence of interest in magic literature and films, which suggests people are once again looking around at things that they can't quite explain."
Due out on 11th June—the solstice occurs on 21th June—the hardback book will retail for £20. It has been written by author and psychologist Philip Carr-Gomm, who is also the leader of the Order of Bards, Ovates & Druids, and Sir Richard Heygate, who became interested in the heritage of English magic when he was doing research for Endangered Species (John Murray), which he also co-wrote.