Member Reviews
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Comprehensive history of the area stretching from Pennsylvania to Alabama. Folk medicine as a mix of Christianity, magick, and superstition borne out of survival/necessity. Mesmerizing blend of old German, African and Native American belief systems. The biodiversity of the region produces a wide variety of medicine and tonics.
This was an excellent overview of folk magic from the Appalachian Mountains. The illustrations were absolutely gorgeous. I enjoyed the authors writing style and personal insights.
Thank you Rebecca Beyer, Quarto Publishing Group - Wellfleet Press, and NetGalley for allowing me to read this ARC e-book. This book would be beautiful sitting on a coffee table not only as a conversation piece but also as a quick referecnce guide. It's not an overwhelming amount of information but still gives enough for you to either learn or refresh your memory. Its definitely a great book if this subject is something you are just beginning to dive into.
This was really interesting and it is clear that the author loves the land she calls home. I just wish that she were actually from the area she writes about. I will give credit where it's due, she owns up that she is not Appalachian and moved there later in life. Buy that's not quite the same as learning from a true Appalachian. It was a fun read and very informative!
First let me say this is a beautiful book. The author gave a good historic overview of the people in Appalachia and their customs and beliefs. The book covers different kinds of healers and herbal remedies. Good book for beginners interested herbalism and magic as well as, some of the common herbs found in Appalachia. Basic overview of magic and magic related topics rounds out this lovely volume.
Mountain Magic by Rebecca Beyer is a book which guides the reader into the world of Appalachian folk traditions and magic. The writing is informative and enchanting paired alongside wondrous illustrations. Thank you to Netgalley, Quarto Publishing Group - Wellfleet Press and Rebecca Beyer for an advanced reader copy of this book.
Unlock the Mysteries of Mountain Magic with Rebecca Beyer! Explore the ancient secrets of Old Time Witchcraft and discover the power of nature. Learn how to use herbs, crystals, and other natural elements to create powerful spells and rituals. With Rebecca's guidance, you'll be able to tap into the power of the mountains and unlock the mysteries of the craft.
I was given a copy to review via Netgalley. My reviews are always honest and all opinions are my own. #MountainMagic #RebeccaBeyer #Netgalley #BookReview
Mountain Magic is a beautifully illustrated guide to the people of Appalachia and the American backwoods. As someone native the UK I do enjoy learning about the occult and magically traditions of different regions and countries. This book is easily accessible with a lot of knowledge on the subject and presented in a beautiful fashion. I particularly liked to learn about the magical lore surrounding the weather and seasons but also the magical and medicinal properties of plants found in the mountains. A lovely reference for those wanting to venture further afield.
As someone who grew up in Appalachia, I can say with confidence that "Mountain Magic" by Rebecca Beyer is a book that truly captures the essence of the region's storied history. This was incredibly well researched. From the vivid illustrations to the helpful tips and cultural context, this is a great introduction to Appalachian witch craft and naturalism. I can't wait to purchase my own copy!
Thanks so much to Quarto Publishing Group - Wellfleet Press as well as NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eGalley of this book before its publication on 02/21/23.
Mountain Magic, by Rebecca Beyer
Rating: 3/5
Published: 21st February 2023
Rebecca Beyer’s knowledge of Appalachian folk magic is beautifully conveyed in this magnificent little book. I loved the layout, and thought it especially accessible for those who are both new and well-versed in the craft. Her research into this magic genre is clearly a passion of hers, which comes across in her recommendations of Appalachian practice. I especially liked the section on charms, seasonal lore and herbs, and love how she seeks to integrate her love and respect for these people through her own magical journey. The illustrations are simply gorgeous too.
If you are looking for history of magic for the Appalachian, this is good. The book was written very lyrically and beautiful. The pictures were so pretty I wanted to print them out and hang them. It was a good history book to expand your knowledge.
This book was delightful. The information resonated positively with me and the artwork in the book was beautiful. I plan to recommend this for my library, but I'm also purchasing my own copy just for the art's sake.
Gorgeous illustrations, really interesting read and thought provoking. I would definitely pick up the author's other guides solely for the writing style and illustrations provided.
I'm sure Rebecca Beyer put much effort into this book, yet I'm unsure what audience she had in mind, and if it should be taken serious(ish) or as pure entertainment.
It is beautifully worded, and I'm absolutely in awe with the images, but some of the "spells" are quite questionable, like "gather urine from every family member"... uhm, no. The author cuts very briefly into different doctors and specialties, but doesn't really talk much about them. I know now that they exist, but I would have loved to read more about each of them. The most useful/interesting for me was chapter 5, which tells lores of the seasons and planting by the signs. I couldn't get much use of the rest of the book.
Like mentioned before, it is beautifully written and illustrated, but it doesn't really deliver useful information - at least for me.
This book was well researched and beautifully illustrated. It gives a good overview of Appalachian traditions and practices. It is very specific to the area so while it was interesting to read about and there were bits of knowledge that could be adapted to other areas it would be of most use to learn about that area not as a how to guide. It was beautifully laid out and easy to read and would serve as a good reference text.
As My Mum & I Like to Study about Wiccans & Witches, We Enjoyed Flicking Through this Wonderful Book, Highly Recommended!
(thanks to net galley for this book).
Really interesting book. I liked that it was concise and almost like an encyclopedia in the way it is laid out. This would make a great reference book to either dip your toes in or as a jumping off point for further research (there is a decent sized bibliography). I also really appreciated the, multiple, warnings to not forage without an expert or seeking an expert opinion as it can be very dangerous.
What really sold me is the book itself. The cover and gorgeous illustrations throughout really lift this book to a must have for those interested in folk magic.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ -- ADORE the cover on this book 🙌🏻
It is no secret that I love all things "witchy" and I also have a love for all things "Appalachia", so this was a book made just for me! First off this book is just gorgeous. The graphics are beautiful and colorful. The book itself is well laid out and easy to read. That said, it is not just visually appealing, it is also full of interesting history, information, spells, charms, and recipes pertaining to witchcraft in Appalachia. I really can't recommend this book enough, 👍🏻👍🏻
**ARC Via NetGalley**
This is a cute book about Mountain Magic, plants, and a few charms. For the most part while reading I wasn't sure what age this book is recommended too, while I do think the illustration are amazing for both a younger audience and adults, I found the descriptions and explanations to only be surface level, and not really interesting for anyone that have read more complex magic books before in their life. The charms were basic and simplistic, which isn't necessary a bad thing. If I had a physical copy it mostly would be for decoration and less for consultation.
Thank you, Rebecca Beyer for bringing the magic of the mountains to us!! What a sacred gift it is to preserve the wisdom of the Appalachian Folk Magic in a way that is accessible to all.. I’m truly blown away by the beautiful artwork and potent wisdom in this book!