I really really wanted to like this book. I really did. I love the premise, and the idea of our dogs and animals being included in our craft was so wonderful to me. But this book just ended up being ridiculous and almost read like satire. Some of the things about dogs were ridiculous or weird, and I was not always convinced that the author really had that much contact with dogs the way that they talked about them. The book was just odd and not really in a good way unfortunately. I love a good spell book, but a lot of these spells left me scratching my head in confusion over why I would do a spell like that. I feel like this book had a lot of potential regarding connecting with our dogs in magic and did not quite get there.

Dive into the enchanting realms of "The Good Dog Spellbook" by Gillian Kemp, a whimsical treasure trove that intertwines the magic of spells with the loyal companionship of our beloved pups. This spellbinding guide is not just about tricks and treats; it offers a charming array of spells, incantations, and mystical methods aimed at strengthening the magical connection between dog lovers and their furry companions.

Imagine learning to decode your dog's personality through the stars, using astrology to decipher their unique traits, or crafting spells that manifest joy and prosperity for you both! Though it lacks the traditional narrative of a story, this book invites readers to explore the vibrant personalities of various breeds and individual dogs while harnessing the mystical energies around them. Kemp’s insights encourage a deeper appreciation for your canine companion, revealing the magic already at play in your everyday lives and helping you forge an even stronger bond that sparkles with understanding and love.

Gillian Kemp’s writing dances off the page with a charming simplicity that invites readers of every caliber to unravel the intricacies of magical wisdom. Her voice radiates warmth and friendliness, encouraging pet owners to embark on enchanting adventures alongside their furry friends. The book is a well-crafted treasure chest, filled with straightforward instructions and clear guidance that make it a breeze to dive into the spells and rituals outlined within.

At the heart of The Good Dog Spellbook lies the profound connection between humans and their canine companions—a bond that Kemp delights in enhancing through the wonders of magic. She skillfully weaves in themes of love, loyalty, and the bliss of togetherness. By blending a sprinkle of magic into their daily interactions, Kemp inspires readers to cultivate a life brimming with harmony and joy, enriching the journey they share with their beloved dogs.

The author weaves a vibrant tapestry of literary techniques that bring the book to life, transforming it into both a captivating read and a treasure trove of knowledge. With delightful anecdotes and vivid examples, she brings the potency of spells and rituals to the forefront, making the mystical feel both accessible and practical. The delightful addition of a Dog Oracle and customized spells tailored to astrological signs infuses the journey with a playful interactivity that keeps readers hooked.

The narrative flows smoothly, guiding readers from foundational concepts to the more intricate realms of magical practice. Each chapter serves as a stepping stone, enriching understanding and honing skills along the way. The organization is straightforward and user-friendly, with dedicated sections for an array of spells, divination techniques, and celestial wisdom—ensuring that every reader can navigate their own magical adventure with ease.

The Good Dog Spellbook is a captivating and user-friendly tome, radiating warmth and charm that draws in readers from all walks of life. With straightforward and succinct instructions, it’s complemented by enchanting illustrations and diagrams that illuminate the content beautifully. Kemp's infectious passion for his topic sparkles on every page, turning the reading experience into sheer delight.

This whimsical yet enlightening guide presents a refreshing viewpoint on the human-canine connection. By blending a dash of magic with practical pet care advice, Kemp equips readers with enchanting tools to strengthen their bonds with their furry friends, infusing their lives with joy and positivity. Both practical and playful, this book is an essential treasure for any devoted dog enthusiast's collection.

If you're a dog lover eager to delve into the enchanting world of your bond with your furry companion, I wholeheartedly suggest picking up The Good Dog Spellbook. This delightful tome caters to seasoned sorcerers and curious newcomers alike, weaving together practical tips, mystical wisdom, and a genuine love for dogs. It’s a captivating blend that makes for an extraordinary journey through the magic we share with our four-legged friends.

I wanted a lot more from this book as a reader, but I think a lot of people will admire it just for the beautiful cover and concept - so I'm rounding up to a 3 as a bookseller. The intro is very standard to similar magical books from Llewellyn from the last few decades - intriguing historical facts but lacking solid research or references. I was disappointed with the spells. I assumed they'd all be focused around dogs and pets, but there are many problematic spells (ex: nonconsensual spells to make people faithful to you like a pet.) Astrology fans may enjoy the doggy zodiac interpretations. I did appreciate the creative ideas for using dogs in your divination practice. Great concept but needs a fresher approach to magic.

This was an interesting read as someone who is getting into more of the magical/spiritual side of life and wanting to implement that in all facets. This was enjoyable and I will be working some spells with my pupperoni.

I liked how this book has a story of the history of dogs and how it has different magic spells for dog training. It also has spells for problems that humans can solve for themselves too. I also like that it has spells for the different zodiac signs for your pet. At the end of the book there is also a symbol guide that has different breeds and what they say about them. Since this is an ARC, I noticed a lot of grammatical errors. Witchcraft is not really my thing as it’s against my religion, but I would still buy this book when it hits shelves next spring.

Though I like this book in theory, it is not so much about how to work magic with your dog, but how to have your dog influence your magic practices. I found that many of the simple spells involved seeking monetary gain, love, and other mundane ordinary world items that lacked influence from a more spiritually focused practitioner of magic. I thought this book was more of a novelty than an actual spell book. I must say I was disappointed.

A fun book for fostering a connection with your dog and a little magic.

The author makes some general assumptions about the way dogs play and the access people may have to a park or country road. One particular working involved the dog says of summer but only included dates for the northern hemisphere.

The Oracle was actually quite fun and certainly more interesting than simply picking a card from a deck.

I would like to know more about some of the associations, color , herb, and crystal choices.