Gypsy Witchcraft and Magic

by Raymond Buckland

The myths and mysteries of the Gypsies have been with us for centuries. You may be familiar with the romantic stereotypes--traveling the countryside in painted wagons, cooking over campfires, living... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1567180973
• ISBN13: 9781567180978
• Release Date: September 1998
• Publisher: Llewellyn Publications
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 1.05 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 7.0" x 9.6"

Customer Reviews

Somewhat misleading, but has its uses.

I am not Romany or Gypsy in any way, shape, or form, but I have done a fair bit of research on the subject. Raymond Buckland's book is very strongly flavoured by his background in Wicka, but if there's one thing I've learned about the Gypsies, it's that there is no one general "rule" they all abide by. For every generally accepted "law", there is almost always at least one group that proves to be an exception. Raymond Buckland wants to draw comparisons between Gypsy cultures and beliefs, and those of the Wickans, and so he picks and chooses which groups to tell about in that way. This is somewhat misleading, as it smacks of half-truths, but that doesn't mean this book is completely useless.For someone who wants a gentle introduction into all things Gypsy, this book is ideal. Raymond Buckland starts at the beginning and works his way through to the end, gently immersing the readers into the terminology and some of the more common beliefs of the Gypsies as he goes. Just be sure that you maintain an open mind while reading, that this book is not the end-all and be-all when it comes to the Romany.The bibliography found at the end of the book alone was worth an extra star. This bibliography is an excellent list of authors and titles for anyone who wants to delve a little deeper into the world of the Gypsies. Granted, some of the books are a little bit difficult to find, but that's what the internet is for. The bibliography on its own is almost worth the price of this book.Overall, this book is most appropriate for someone just beginning to read about Gypsies, or who would like a lighter crash-course than those offered by other authors. For anyone who knows their Gypsy culture and beliefs, it's not worth it. You'll already know the truths this book has to offer. I'm not going to get into the flaws and faults of Raymond Buckland's text here, as some of the other reviewers have been more than happy to do so already. If you're into the occult, you're probably already familiar with the author, and you know his step-by-step writing style. Again, useful for newbies, not so much for experts.

magic anyone?

this book is a mix of wicca and gypsy magic very useful with all kinds of charms for all kinds of things love, money, power, protection, exorcism, health something for everyone this book does NOT contain any sort of recipe for love potion number 9

gypsy witchcraft and magic

an excellent and fascinating book from raymond buckland, couldn't put it down until i had read it cover to cover! a very good foundation book to start off with, for anybody with an interest in romany or wiccan or just sheer curiosity in romany folklore, excellent references to refer back to and an insight in to britains romany populus and transitions through the years.

Romany Magic

Buckland incorporates elements of Romany culture as well as the Craft. There are brief translations of the Romany language, which is helpful if the practitioner wants to use the original incantations to cast. This book goes in depth about the beliefs behind the various methods of spellcasting. It tends to reflect some of the beliefs of Wiccans, and can act as a supplement to those wishing to branch out. There are recipies for natural remedies and the magical uses of different items, herbs, and stones. Novices can use it, but only after much practice, so it is almost better for those a step higher than Novice, who have mastered the basic techniques. It is an interesting read for the non-practitioner as well. There are patterns and pointers for traditional Romany dress, though not extensive, for those who want a basic idea for costuming. Overall a good book for those interested in the subject.