Practical Symbols: Runes and Sigils for Holistic Wellbeing by Amy Donnelly is a beautiful and useful reference that will stand out on any bookshelf, desk, or alter. Viki Lester’s simple illustrations lend a modern aesthetic to the ancient images, which sets the tone for the reader to use their intuition and intention to incorporate symbols into their craft in a personalized way. The layout and organization of the book makes it very easy to find specific symbols that will augment the spells, self care, indeed, any magic craft you are creating. Donnelly’s long-held interest in folklore, and education in archaeology assures accurate information that is culturally sensitive. Although not an exhaustive dive into each system of symbols, the author surveys several traditions and includes an invaluable bibliography for further research. This book is sure to become a go to reference for your daily magical practice, it definitely has for mine. Thank you, Quarto Publishing Group -Leaping Hare, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.

Practical Symbols: Runes and Sigils for Holistic Wellbeing is an interesting and handy guide for learning how to use the power of symbols in everyday life for many different things. The book provides much information, tools, and advice and is organised in a way that is easy to follow and find what you're looking for at a later date.
The book covers many topics for wellbeing and healing, such as healing, mental health, relaxation, sleep, nurturing, physical well-being, and soul healing. I found the information about ancient symbols and runes fascinating, and I really enjoyed reading this book. If you love magic, spellcasting, and finding different ways to connect with nature and enhance wellbeing, I'd definitely give this book a read.

I loved the organization of this book, and just how much information was included! Everything was presented well, and it covers quite a few different cultural groups. It's a great reference book for anyone looking for sigils to use, or those who want help creating their own sigils. The author provides information on various cultures and their symbols, then covers symbols one might choose depending on their needs (wellness, career, moon cycles, etc.). There's also a helpful index at the end that shows each symbol and the page where the reader can find it. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC!

I haven't done much research on symbols, so this was a fantastic introduction on the subject. I think it's great not only to get background on different symbols but also learn how to make my own. I also appreciate that it's fairly short and easy to read.

The cover looks quite dark and has an array of Symbols, Sigils, and markings on it that are later featured and explained in the book. The darkness of the cover gives the book a very mystical, magical, mysterious feel to it.

After reading the introduction that the author had always been fascinated by history and folklore and grew up with traditions such as throwing salt over her shoulder, putting a pin in a cushion to find a lost item, things handed down through the generations similar to my own passed down family traditions I was eager to read the book. However the book was more like a dictionary of different symbols, which whilst that is interesting, I would have loved to have read more folklore & superstition and traditions. The content of the book was detailed and well presented, though the actual content was not exactly what I had thought it was going to be.

The book begins by explaining symbol usage in witchcraft and cover things like the pentagram that most people would probably be familiar with. The book goes on to discuss how to choose and use symbols as well as where they came from. I found the history and origin explanations of each symbol to be detailed and well explained.

The book is then separated into 7 chapters with the following headings, Symbols for Wellness, Physical Wellness, Sabbat, the Moon, Special Occasions, for Career and Practical Sigils. This is the part of the book that is very much set out like a reference book. I read and e-copy of the book and I think a physical book would be much more tactile and absorbing as it would be easier to flick back and forth between pages and sections. There are also sections where the author recommends other books to read and an index of symbols

Summing up I think it's more of a handbook that you would dip in and out. A great addition to your book shelf if you're fascinated by Symbols & Sigils and are seriously wanting to learn to use them in a more in depth way in daily life.

I wish the book was available when I was first learning about runes, sigils, symbols, etc, because this is by far the best introductory book on symbols I have had the pleasure of reading. It's easy to understand and very user friendly. Practical Symbols, by Amy Donnelly belongs on the bookshelves of every new/new-ish witch.

This was so interesting!!
It looks at a variety of different symbols, and not just the straightforward ones... there was a lot in here that I had never come across before!
Really enjoyed this!

This is the kind of book everyone who wants to take control of their own power needs. It provides excellent descriptions and allows the reader to explore their own power.

This is such a quick, easy to understand, and very informative. This is great for those who are looking to learn about runes and sigils. And there is a how-to on the sigils in a few different formats which is amazing. Perfect not only for beginners, but for everyone!

Thank you to Netgalley, the author, and publisher for the eARC.

A fantastic introductory guide to symbols, sigils, magic squares and more. Highly recommended for new witches looking to create their own symbols - which is important in that they will be stronger and work better than drawing something someone else made and posted online.

Perfect book for beginners who are interested in runes and sigils. The author introduces the origins and story about the ancient practical symbols of every in an accessible narrative. Donnelly also stresses the importance of one's intention being pure and strong to help them achieve their goal. She also devotes an entire chapter in creating your own sigils and bind runes, which work best for your purpose and goal.
The chapters are organised by topics that afflict many people today who are looking for an assistance — there is emotional and physical wellbeing, connecting with. nature, symbols to enhance your career and personal goals, and a calendar wheel, which shows how ancient symbols have always been used since centuries as aids to live a holistic life.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who is spiritually curious or inclined, irrespective of their learning experience and share it with their circle or just strengthen their spiritual connection with themselves.

I loved this book and can't wait to add it to my collection. There is SO MUCH MORE history and reasoning behind some of our favorite symbols. Instructions for use, history, and inspiration are all contained in this volume. I enjoyed it and can't wait to gift it as well!

Netġalley Review

Cute, from layout to style within the book. Filled with so much knowledge and easy to understand. Very inclusive book for all levels.

A nice and straight to the point guide to know a bit more about different symbols and its used in witchcraft. The illustrations are wonderful 💖

I found this book really interesting. It’s only short but it is so handy if you want to learn more about using symbols.
I particularly liked the section on using a Sigil Wheel & how to use a Magic Square to create your own sigils.
It would be a great addition to any practitioners of Witchcraft who want to incorporate symbols into their practice.