Reviews
"This is practical, no nonsense, no frills, household problem solving; if someone has got a stye on their eye or a handful of warts, a toothache or a tummy ache. It wouldn't be complete without love spells and has others to aid sleep. The contents are so interesting, the illustrations so good, that it could be a long night before you put it down, so maybe the charm against the night riding spirits will be handy." -- Geraldine Beskin "Published by Troy Books, The British Book of Spells and Charms is a wonderful addition to the collection of anyone interested in folklore, folk magic, or esoteric studies. The book is illustrated throughout with full colour photographs and artwork, and draws on attested sources for its account of witchcraft around the British Isles. Carefully put together by the author, Graham King, it is an authentic glimpse into the collection of the Witchcraft Museums extensive collection." -- Pollyanna Jones
Synopsis
'The British Book of Spells & Charms' explores the wealth of traditional spells and charms of Britain's folk-magical tradition, including those for good fortune, love, the healing of people and animals, curses and their removal, and acts of magic contained within traditional folk songs., Graham King is the former owner and curator of the Museum of Witchcraft in Boscastle Cornwall, most famous perhaps for its central place within the modern witchcraft revival, via its origins with Cecil Williamson on the Isle of Man and the involvement of Gerald Gardner. From a young age Graham has held a keen interest in traditional folk music and dances as well as folk magic. During a walk in the English countryside (one of his favourite activities) in 1996, he encountered and was made welcome by a group of travelling folk gathering to celebrate the ancient Tan Hill Fair. It was this encounter that set in motion Graham's decision to leave behind the corporate lifestyle, leading to his purchase of the Museum of Witchcraft from Cecil Williamson. Graham made the 200 mile journey on foot to Boscastle, where at midnight on the 31st October that same year, the purchase was finalised. Graham and his team went on to develop The Museum of Witchcraft into one of Cornwall's most popular museums. Serving 10 years as an auxiliary Coastguard, it was Graham who raised he alert when the 2004 flood struck Boscastle leading to the incredible rescue operation which saved hundreds of lives; a role for which he was awarded the Chief Coastguard Commendation. On the 31st of October 2013, Graham retired as Director of the Museum and appointed Simon Costin, founder of The Museum of British Folklore, as the new Director. Graham generously donated the museum's entire collection and its massive research library and archive to the Museum of British Folklore, securing the future of The Museum of Witchcraft. Troy Books is delighted to be publishing Graham's first book - 'The British Book of Spells & Charms' which explores the wealth of traditional spells and charms of Britain's folk-magical tradition, including those for good fortune, love, the healing of people and animals, curses and their removal, and acts of magic contained within traditional folk songs. In writing this book, Graham has been ideally placed to draw upon examples and parallels within The Museum of Witchcraft's collection and archives. The text of 'The British Book of Spells & Charms' is complemented by numerous illustrations and photographs, drawing mainly from the museum's fascinating collection of magical artefacts, printed in full colour throughout.
