The Element Encyclopedia of Witchcraft: The Complete A-Z for the Entire Magical World Paperback – June 28, 2005

This book by by Nicola Illes is far more than an Encyclopedia. The in-depth study and research put into this work is very evident. The information going back to the time of Jesus to date is amazing. Exposing both sides of all sides of topics is amazing and wonderful, letting the reader decide. This book is worth the purchase, worth purchasing as a gift to share. I'm amazed by the history, ready and detail. This book is awesome to keep handy as a reference book of just refresh your journey. This book is a must get, Must read, Must have.

Very informative. Highly recommend

I love this encyclopedia. I bought the physical book version (which I highly recommend VS. Kindle: while Kindle is great, there's just something about a physical book that adds character). I found it comprehensive, and entertaining. This book covers pop culture, history, legends, and more. My only minor complaint was some of the entities detailing old stories or fictional things (such as TV shows) didn't explicitly explain they were fictional accounts. But that could also just be me not reading thouroughly enough.This encyclopedia covers everything about the history and lore of witchcraft. It covers some herbs and spells, but mainly it focuses on history. For example: It covers several historic cases of witchcraft trials and "well-known witches". If you're looking for a book of spells and witchcraft instructions, this is not the book for that purpose. This same other does have several other books fitting that category however. One is "The Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells." Well I haven't read that particular encyclopedia, anything written by this author seems to be well researched, easy to follow, and entertaining. She is a good writer and there is a down-to-earth quality to her writing. Almost like she's talking to you rather then you reading a book. Highly recommend this book!

Finally we are getting the books we deserve! Reference books for the magickal practioner.I've owned "The Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells" and devoured it (aprox 900 pgs) in a week, earning my Hermoine "light reader's" badge indefinitely. I have been aching to get my hands on this one since I first laid my eyes on it in the library's directory! I knew I was hooked when I racked up 30$ in fees, lol, bc I didn't want to give it back!Judika doesn't go on and on about her accolades and accomplishment (ie Gilderoy Lockhart). She gets to the point. She researches and references her sources and encourages you to do the same! This book reads like a true encyclopedia and that alone is a testament to the amount of work she's had to put into it! Stuff like, in the human language there's over 40 words for "witch"/ "magickal practitioner". HAD NO CLUE! The many different magickal practices that play a role in what that particular society thought magick users were/ are/ will be. Orishia, Hoodoo, Santeria, Italian, Christian and even Gypsy magickal traditions and their respective practitioners (titles, styles, talents, etc.)This should be required reading for all who truly wish to walk, teach and learn the magickal traditions.

I’ve only got to read a couple pages as of now and I absolutely love this book.I did look at random pages just for enjoyment,but this book will definitely come in handy with my future and current practices

This is a pretty thorough introduction to the history of witchcraft, basic principles, important figures, places, pop culture references, a little bit of everything! It truly expanded my beginner's knowledge of the subject but could be used by anyone at any level for the information it contains. That being said, it's definitely a reference style book and not a "practical guide" of how to's, spellwork instructions, etc. That was perfectly fine for me as I was looking for a more dense, information heavy book! Great all around. I especially love that the book is hardcover as that helps reduce a little bit of the wear and tear on the pages and binding. The cover art is beautiful too!