Your Magical Life

December 18, 2023
In this bubbly guide, poet Lovelace (Break Your Glass Slippers) encourages readers to build a witchcraft practice rooted in self-confidence. Focusing on “small and simple magic that doesn’t stress you out,” Lovelace opens with advice for casting one’s first spell (pair an affirmation that describes “the thing you want to happen” with an action, such as holding a crystal); finding space for a magical altar on which to test out spells, rituals, divination, and meditation; and working with crystals based on mood and purpose. Later sections cover tapping into “magical messages” via divination (by way of tarot cards, oracle cards, or pendulums) and harnessing the energy generated by seasons and the moon’s phases. While the witchy fundamentals can be found elsewhere, readers will be charmed by Lovelace’s affable tone—“No, you’re probably not going to predict someone’s tragic and untimely death,” she clarifies—and wisdom for handling skeptics in one’s life and “practicing in a manner that feels true and authentic to you” (“Experiment, experiment, experiment until you find your groove,” she advises). Wannabe witches will glean confidence and more than a few ritual practices to test out.

August 1, 2024

Gr 4 Up-A rudimentary-while-still-being-extensive overview of witchcraft and spirituality. With the guidance of a kind and gentle narrator, middle schoolers embark on an educational journey focusing on magic and witchcraft and how easy it is to incorporate it into their lives. The magnitude of information is broken down in such a digestible way that readers will forget they are learning. Lovelace explains the difference between pagans, wiccans, and witches; what each tarot card signifies; the types of crystals; elemental properties; seasonal holidays and rituals via the wheel of the year; and moon cycles. They boost readers' confidence in themselves. The tone throughout is uplifting and motivational. Lovelace breaks down each topic with the care of a loving older sibling. The digital art is in a tight palette of lavender, black, and white. VERDICT A great choice for witchcraft newbies and veterans as a quick reference, purchase where there's interest in the subject.-Jenna LaBollita

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

August 1, 2024
Grades 4-7 Look no further for a witch's primer than this no-frills, no-judgment guide that makes no assumptions about its readers whatsoever. Lovelace writes an easy-to-follow, digestible book that addresses everything from basics and misconceptions to lessons in self-love and confidence, and throughout, they encourage readers to find magic in the small moments of everyday life. Here readers will find simple explanations for things they might find confusing or be afraid to ask about, as well as journal prompts and enthusiastic encouragement of whatever brings fulfillment. There are some illustrations peppered throughout the book and nice visual spreads to represent things like tarot readings, which are also outlined and explained in detail. At the very end of the book, there is a guide for readers to create their very own spells. Overall, it's a super positive and gentle introduction to witchy practices that focuses on accessibility and personal growth. This book is written for just about anyone, of any background, belief, or identity, and encourages everyone learning from it to foster an equally welcoming space for everyone around them.

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