36 Best Witchcraft Books for Beginners & Practicing Witches

We have always been fascinated by witches so decided to bring you the best witchcraft books from around the world. Witchcraft is an ancient religious activity and includes all the groups that have a cultural framework that includes a magical world view.

Witchcraft was and is still present on six continents and it brought us knowledge and influenced close to all religions on earth over the centuries.

Knowledge to understand ourselves and nature better. In the old times, they were healers with high respect. Then came the dark ages and respect turned into fear then hatred.

As of current estimation, there were nearly ten million executions between the 7th and 18th centuries. All accused of being witches. 

The ‘Witch House’, Home of Judge in Witchcraft Cases; also of Roger Williams, Salem, Mass.

So to make this spellbinding world a bit easier to understand, we present a collection of witchcraft books. Not all are going to be Salem witch trial books as we intend to familiarize ourselves with various aspects of witchcraft from around the world.

With these amazing books about witchcraft, you will learn about witchcraft history, types of witchcraft, spells, symbols, rituals, myths, legends, from the ancient ways to today’s witchcraft.

You will learn about witchcraft of the various societies and groups as well as their own personal cultural framework with a magical world view. So, even if you are an already practicing witch you are still going to have fun reading these books.

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Best Witchcraft books about Paganism, Wicca, Voodoo, & Shamanism
from around the world

36| Secrets of the Witch: An initiation into our history and our wisdom by Elsa Whyte, Julie Légère, & Laura Pérez

While Secrets of the witch is short you’ll find inside all kinds of interesting stories, myths, historical facts, and information about tools witches have used over the centuries.

It’s a perfect book for YA readers as well as for those who are interested in learning more about witchcraft but don’t want to get started with books with hundreds of pages.

You’ll read stories about witches from all over the world from Japan and Africa to Ancient Greece and the Americas.

Our favorite thing about this beauty was the stunning illustration. This book is so beautiful it could very well become an interesting and fun addition to your cafe table collection as well.

In case you’re looking for a witchcraft book for teen readers or art lovers you should also consider picking up this book.

35| The Encyclopedia of Witchcraft & Demonology by Rossell Hope Robbins

Probably one of the best books on witchcraft to begin your journey with. Robbins had gone to great lengths collecting almost all there is to know about witches, their practices and history. On top of the information, it contains, there are incredible illustrations as well.

Mainly focusing on the period between the 15th and 18th centuries, there are accurate descriptions of witch trials too. Get familiar with these dark times through eyewitnesses and witches.

We think all witch enthusiasts should have a copy of The Encyclopedia on their bookshelves. Furthermore, you can also acquaint demons, vampires and the devil itself reading this book.

34| The Voodoo Hoodoo Spellbook Paperback by Denise Alvarado

“Voodoo Hoodoo” is the unique variety of Creole Voodoo found in New Orleans. The Voodoo Hoodoo Spellbook is a lavish compendium of more than 300 authentic Voodoo and Hoodoo recipes, rituals, and spells.

Denise Alvarado is a well known cultural psychologist and root worker who also grew up in New Orleans wrote this comprehensive book about voodoo.  She drew from her own recipes and spells she learned from family, friends, and local practitioners.

You can also learn a lot about Voodoo history since she also traced the history of the African-based folk magic brought by slaves to New Orleans and shows how it evolved over time to include influences from Native American spirituality, Catholicism, and Pentecostalism.

You will also learn about the Pantheon of Voodoo Spirits, the Seven African Powers, and other important Loas, Prayers, Novenas, and Psalms.

She also gets technical and writes about the uses of Oils and Potions, Hoodoo Powders and Gris Gris: Algier’s Fast Luck Powder, talismans and candle magic, as well as about curses and hexes.

33| The Penguin Book of Witches by Katherine Howe

This frightening history book takes through the dark times of England and North America. There are incredible stories supported by authentic documents about trials and witch hunt in general. You can have a peek into King James’ Manual for witch hunters (1597).

Read first hand stories about the Salem Witch trials as well as other court documents. It is one of the best books about Salem witch trials. The Penguin Book of Witches offers an opportunity to get a feel of these grim centuries. See how people lived their lives, how they coped and what chances a charged witch stood to survive.

There are interesting documents about accused witches taking others to the court for slandering. Get to know one of the most known exorcists. Meet Increase Mather, who claimed to know a lot about witches and the devil’s works.

32| A Witch Alone: Thirteen Moons to Master Natural Magic by Marian Green

If you are looking for the best witchcraft books, Marian Green’s piece is definitely should be on your list. This page turner brings white magic to light. Because many are often thinking magic and witches are on the other side of the law.

Well, witchcraft can actually be used to more good than bad. If you truly want to understand what is witchcraft, you should read this book, it will not disappoint. It is also one of the best witchcraft books for beginners because of its detailed but entertaining style that keeps the reader thrilled while learning.

You are going to benefit, even if you are not planning to practice the arts of the craft. It is a beautiful guide to harmony and inner health.

31| Buckland’s Complete Book of Witchcraft by Raymond Buckland

Raymond Buckland worked hard to get you going. If you are new to Wicca, you’ll be in safe hands if you get this book because this is among the best witchcraft books for beginners as well. This thorough collection of beliefs, rituals, items, practices, and history is going to prepare you well and will help you understand witchcraft at a deeper level.

If there is anything to know about modern Wicca, you will find it in this book. There are also plenty of detailed illustrations, useful photographs, and colorful descriptions.

You will soon have a much better understanding thanks to this amazing book on witchcraft.

30| Hoodoo Herb and Root Magic: A Materia Magica of African-American Conjure by Catherine Yronwode

The best witchcraft books list cannot be complete without Catherine Yronwode’s work. It is a superb collection of herbs, recipes, spells, and rituals of African-American witchcraft. If you are looking to put your own hex-bag together, you found your book.

Draw a spiritual bath or make soothing incense. Even you are looking to step on the path of the Wiccans, there is plenty of interesting information in the book. The book collects around 500 herbs, roots and unusual bits, 750 spells along with tricks and recipes.

All made easier to understand by illustrations.

29| We Borrow the Earth: An Intimate Portrait of the Gypsy Shamanic Tradition and Culture by Patrick Jasper Lee

We all heard of gypsy curses, probably thanks to Stephen King’s Thinner. Despite being so well known, there are only quite a few people only who actually have a good understanding of Romani culture.

Thanks to Patrick Jasper Lee, we get to learn more about Gypsy magic and spiritualism. He himself has the knowledge of a healing Shaman. Yes, there is much more white magic than curses and darkness in Gypsy magic.

There is more to explore; Gypsies traditionally consider Earth as something they can only borrow and not own. It is a nice thought, respectful and altruistic. If we all considered Earth as something borrowed, we may have taken a bit better care of it.

28| The Way of the Shaman by Michael Harner

Anthropologist Michael Harner has written a superb book to introduce shamanism to beginners. It shows the ins and outs of shamanism.

The Way of the Shaman contributed to resurrecting modern shamanism. Through this book, you are going to become a part of this fascinating world.

Where is shamanism originating? What is it exactly? How to practice it? You are going to get all the answers after reading this book about shamanism.

27| The Dictionary Of The Esoteric: More than 3000 Entries On The Mystical And Occult Traditions by Nevill Drury

To get a good grasp of Witchery, The Dictionary Of The Esoteric is a must-read. You are going to be able to give meaning to all things related to witchcraft.

This is one of the most useful witchcraft books for beginners and advanced. Drury’s work had to have a spot on our list.

As the title suggests, there are over 3000 entries. So it is very unlikely you wouldn’t find an answer to your questions no matter what it is.

26| The Modern Guide to Witchcraft: Your Complete Guide to Witches, Covens, and Spells by Skye Alexander

Kye Alexander, a witchcraft expert has brought to you the key to success. By mastering spellcraft, you will be able to live up to your fullest potential. This superb guide is probably among the best books on witchcraft.

Let it be love, happiness, confidence, you have an answer for all in this book. It may be for the rather advanced ones, however, beginners can learn a lot as well. You can explore yourself a well as the world of witchcraft.

You will not only become a skilled witch but use it to your advantage in life as well. Reading through this book, you are going to find your own magical powers and become a master of witchcraft.

25| Witchcraft: A Handbook of Magic Spells and Potions by Anastasia Greywolf

This beautiful and mysterious book on witchcraft is a superb choice if you are looking for some magic spells. From the cover to the end it is just beautiful. There are amazing illustrations and thorough descriptions of rituals and spells.

Anastasia Greywolf’s collection of spells and potions is one of the best witchcraft books for beginners. Become a powerful practitioner of witchcraft by mastering all sorts of spells.

To make your learning path, the topics are conveniently categorized for you.

24| Drawing Down the Moon: Witches, Druids, Goddess-Worshippers, and Other Pagans in America Today by Margot Adler

The revision of the book that was published thirty years ago, brings North-American paganism to light. It is a great read to understand more about rituals, and the history of Neo-Paganism overall.

Margot Adler interviewed many people around the subcontinent to bring you the most detailed and authentic introduction. Reading this book will shed new light on the subculture, that has been misunderstood for so long.

We would definitely recommend this witchcraft book for beginners.

23| The Witch’s Book of Self-Care: Magical Ways to Pamper, Soothe, and Care for Your Body and Spirit by Arin Hiscock-Murphy

Arin Hiscock-Murphy is a real Wiccan writer to the bone. Thanks to her devotion to the world of witches, we can use magic to take good care of ourselves. In a really magical and classy way, your soul and body will be pampered to an unimaginable extent.

There aren’t many witchcraft books that approach life this way. You should be able to kick back and relax after a long day. Now, you can reconnect your soul and mind with nature and switch off after a long day.

Undoubtedly, keeping relaxed has many health benefits. So even if you are skeptical about magic, these practices will help you find inner peace.

22| The House Witch: Your Complete Guide to Creating a Magical Space with Rituals and Spells for Hearth and Home by Arin Hiscock-Murphy

As mentioned, Arin Hiscock-Murphy has a great knowledge of the Wiccan world. She doesn’t just think about your body and soul but your home as well. Of course, the two are connected.

If in a healthy body healthy mind, then in a healthy house… You know where we are going, right? The House Witch surely deserves a spot on our best books witchcraft books as your home merits good care too.

Give your palace good energies to make you feel safe and happy at all times. This superb book on Witchcraft is a treat and not just for the advanced ones.

21| Waking the Witch: Reflections on Women, Magic, and Power by Pam Grossman

This fascinating book is great for so many reasons. First of all, there is no better way to understand a witch’s life, than through a memoir by one. It is Partly Pam Grossman’s story, who herself is a witch.

Secondly, she grabs all the stereotypes, pop culture archetypes and fillets them out. Grossman opens up with unexpected honesty about this world and paints a picture only a few saw before.

There is a little bit of everything, politics, history and own experiences. We think it is perfect for everyone to help understand our own struggles besides more about the world of witches. Despite being a superb read for women, we definitely recommend this book to males as well.

20| Basic Witches: How to Summon Success, Banish Drama, and Raise Hell with Your Coven by Jaya Saxena and Jess Zimmerman

Basic Witches is an easy read mainly for millennial witch-to-be readers. Jaya Saxena’s and Jess Zimmerman’s collaboration raised some eyebrows over time. Real witches consider this collection of witchery a bit of a sell-out.

Well, we see what their point maybe, however, it is, in our opinion good to take a different approach sometimes. It is definitely one of the best witchcraft books for beginners.

If you are new to the world of witchery, it is an easy read. It even gives you some fashion tips and makes harnessing your inner power easily digestible.

19| The Triumph of the Moon: A History of Modern Pagan Witchcraft

Ronald Hutton’s thorough book about witches has changed the world in 1999. Or at least the world of witches. He Triumph of the Moon dives deeply in the history of witches. You can find out where it originates from, how it spread and what are the fundamentals of Wicca.

We love how Hutton approaches the topic from both sides. He shows us all the dark magic and presents the positive powers of witchcraft as well. You can understand more about the religion as well as practices and rituals.

Find out how is the Wiccan world structured. There are plenty of baffling facts to learn about witches and Ronald Hutton worked hard not to leave out anything.

18| Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs by Scott Cunningham

This amazing witchcraft book is just a delight. In our opinion, it is another beautiful piece every household should have. Scott Cunningham has collected over 400 herbs that hold magical powers.

This amazing collection is not only for witches. Even herbalist praise this book as it offers a vast knowledge of herbs and plants that can be of use.

Thanks to the beautiful illustrations of John Goodier, you will have no trouble recognizing each of those magical beings.

17| The Occult, Witchcraft and Magic: An Illustrated History by Christopher Dell

For a detailed history lesson open up Christopher Dell’s amazing collection. This is one of the best books on witchcraft. You are going to take a journey from the very old times when other religions didn’t even exist.

Look into how it evolved and how other religions mention witchcraft. Find out what this fascinating religion went through over the centuries. The magnificent illustrations and the extremely detailed descriptions will make you feel like actually being there on the spot.

Understand how science and witchcraft were and still connected since the middle ages. We are sure, this witchcraft book is definitely a great start for beginner witches.

16| Revolutionary Witchcraft: A Guide to Magical Activism by Sarah Lyons

Sarah Lyons’ work is a very interesting piece. The activist, author, and practicing witch is boldly presenting what witchcraft had to go through until today. You are going to find that witches were often the victim of politics. A thorough history lesson, from the dawn of modern witchhood.

Look into the dark ages of England, experience the Salem witch trials and see what happened up until today. It is not one of the typical books about Salem Witch trials. It goes into depths you wouldn’t have thought of.

Besides the history and the oppression of witchcraft, you can learn about rituals, spells, and goals. It is a great if not one of the best witchcraft books. If you are a beginner, we think you should pick this one up for sure.

15| Craft: How to Be a Modern Witch by Gabriela Herstik

This superb book aims to empower women, more precisely witches in these modern times. There are so many toxic influences one has to cope with. This book helps you resist, and clear all away.

Keep a healthy mind in a healthy body. Everyone should be able to maintain inner peace and connect with nature. We stand less and less chance to do so, especially if living in a city.

Learn about crystals, tarot and even sex magic to perfect your life. If you are looking for the best books about witchcraft for modern women, this is definitely one of them.

14| The Craft: A Witch’s Book of Shadows by Dorothy Morrison

Often referred to as one of the best witchcraft books. Dorothy Morrison’s work covers almost everything there is to know about witchery. Understand more about rituals, rules, and beliefs of the Wicca.

Learn to make and use tools and how to live a well balanced, healthy life. The Craft goes into great depth about witchcraft in every sense. Turn seasons and celestial bodies to your use; you can quickly become a master of leveraging changes in and outside the Earth’s atmosphere.

If you want to keep a copy of the best books about witchcraft, this one should definitely be amongst them.

13| The Complete Book of Incense, Oils and Brews by Scott Cunningham

We have already included a book by Scott Cunningham in our list. The fact that a second one made our collection of best books on witchcraft shows how great his works are.

The Complete Book of Incense, Oils, and Brews helps you perfect your rituals. It is very important to create an atmosphere you can concentrate and relax in. A successful ritual requires the conjurer to be in the right state of mind.

You are going to find countless recipes that will help you connect with nature and astrological signs. Every Wicca should have a copy of this superb Witchcraft book.

12| A Kitchen Witch’s World of Magical Food by Rachel Patterson

Finally, we got a cookbook for witches. This humorous Wiccan recipe book is going to change your life. You can find recipes to connect with the moon, bring you luck and make a difference in your life.

Rachel Patterson has a very entertaining tone, we just cannot have enough of her. There shouldn’t be a list of best books on witchcraft without a great recipe book.

Perform rituals, celebrate Sabbats or just indulge your friends and family. There is something for you in this lovely book no matter what intentions you have for today’s dinner.

Speaking of magic in the kitchen, Rachel Patterson has written an amazing book on cakes too. Cakes from the Cauldron is a lovely piece with delightful sweets that will perfect every moment.

11| A Modern Celt: Seeking the Ancestors by Mabh Savage

Mabh Savage has collected almost all there is to know about the Celtic traditions. You will soon realize, modern pagans have been significantly inspired by this over 2000-year old culture.

A Modern Celt: Seeking the Ancestors takes you on an adventure you will never forget. Get to know this magnificent culture through its history and key figures. Understand how and why it is still very important in the modern ages. You can also see what role it plays in these modern times.

We think it is a very interesting and informative read, which you will not be able to put down. And you thought this list will only contain books about Salem witch trials.

10| The Inner Temple of Witchcraft: Magick, Meditation and Psychic Development by Christopher Penczak

Christopher Penczak has gone deep into witchcraft and magic. His collection of witchcraft books are an educational journey every aspiring Wiccas should take. It is important to know how things work and how we can get the most out of ourselves.

This book mainly focuses on stepping on a path of a well-balanced, happy life. Meditation is a significant part of becoming successful. Have to mention, success is not just about materialistic achievements. Being happy is a success, isn’t it?

Learn about rituals, history, and tap into your inner power with the help of Penczak. This is one of the best witchcraft books for beginners.

9| Shamanism: Archaic Techniques of Ecstasy by Mircea Eliade

Mircea Eliade was a pioneer of religious studies. The Romania born Chicago University professor has surveyed the globe to track down the origins of shamanism. From its birthplace (Asia and Siberia) to every possible location it is practiced in any form.

Eliade takes us to an incredible expedition uncovering 2500 years of history. How did Shamanism begin? How it evolved and what role it played in certain societies?

You are going to get answers you have been searching for. The first edition was published in 1951 and is still the go-to literature if researching shamanism. No question, it is the best book about shamanism.

8| Natural Witchery: Intuitive, Personal & Practical Magick by Ellen Dugan

Witches are very close to nature. Even if you are not an aspiring witch, this book will help you reconnect with Mother Earth. We should all appreciate nature more. Ellen Dugan helps you find inner peace and tap into the many energy sources provided by the universe.

Of course, if you would like to take witchery further, there are tips on how to use witchcraft for your own good. Nothing dark, all spells benefiting you and your loved ones have no negative effect on others.

It is one of the best witchcraft for beginners in our opinion.

7| Grimoire for the Green Witch: A Complete Book of Shadows by Ann Moura

Ann Moura, born and raised in a witch family has some amazing insights for the newbies and practicing witches alike. She raises philosophical questions that make learning about witchcraft easier and more interesting.

This book fantastically combines traditional and modern witchery. Moura’s authentic grimoire is more than just research because it’s also based on family traditions and actual magical experiences that are easily adaptable to any tradition of Witchcraft.

Grimoire for the Green Witch offers a treasury of magical information―rituals for Esbats and Sabbats, correspondences, circle-casting techniques, sigils, symbols, recitations, spells, teas, oils, baths, and divinations.

This Grimoire is for sure one of the best witchcraft books for beginners. 

Her other book ‘Green Witchcraft: Folk Magic, Fairy Lore & Herb Craft‘ is also a fantastic read.

6| Celtic Magic by D.J. Conway

The big book of Celtic Magic. That could be another title of D. J. Conway’s book. It is of spells with thorough descriptions to have a clear picture of how they work. Conway takes us through the fascinating and colorful history of the Celtic culture.

It is also a great read if you are a magic enthusiast or love history. The introductions of spells and rituals are actually very detailed, easy to understand and practice.

Celtic Magic also offers important features such as in-depth discussion of Celtic culture and customs, a complete listing of Celtic myths and deities. It also offers step-by-step instructions for spellwork, ritual, meditations, and divination that can help you gain insight to make changes in your life.

This friendly Celtic magic book is designed for both beginners and those who possess more knowledge on this subject as well as for those who have a great interest in Celtic history, lore, and magic.

5| Garden Witchery: Magick from the Ground Up by Ellen Dug

A good witch has a healthy garden too. You are going to need a collection of herbs and flowers, often better if fresh. Not to mention, if you want to achieve your goals, you must know where those herbs are from.

Keep a healthy garden and you will be a happy witch. Ellen Dug a practicing witch and master gardener has put together an adorable collection, colored with hilarious humor. Her style of writing is just a delight.

Discover the secret language and magickal properties of the trees and flowers, herbs and plants found growing around you, and learn how to create your own witch’s garden.

We think it is a must have witchcraft book for everyone.

4| Pagan Portals – Hoodoo: Folk Magic by Rachel Patterson

Familiarize yourself with the world of magic through and easy to understand the lesson. Rachel Patterson is a dedicated witch, who aims to bring Hoodoo closer to everyone.

Learn what it is, where it is from, how it evolved and what are the benefits of magic. You will fall in love with the world of magic, spells, history and all sorts of tricks this book presents.

This book also details the author’s personal experiences with Hoodoo, deities, beliefs and the magical practices along with spellbinding information on various Hoodoo crafts like bottle spells, foot track magic, crossroads magic, powders, spiritual washes and much more.

This book has a great tone to bring this magical world to you and helps you learn more about Voodoo.

3| The Circle Within: Creating a Wiccan Spiritual Tradition by Dianne Sylvan

Take a step further in exploring the world of Wicca. Dianne Sylvan invites you to become a real witch from top to bottom. This superb book contains all one has to know. See how a Wicca lives, from ethics and philosophical point of view. Then go deep into spells, prayers, and rituals.

It is superbly detailed and eye-opening. If witchcraft is completely new for you, The Circle Within is definitely one of the books about witchcraft. If you plan to practice witchcraft alone or in a group, this is your guide.

Topics in this Wicca book include: cultivating an ongoing personal relationship with deity, ethics, and standards of behavior, concepts of sacred space, elements of daily practice, tuning into the Wheel of the Year and the elements, and creating meaningful personal Pagan rituals.

There are interesting parts of the book helping you understand how and why a place becomes sacred or how to connect with a deity. Step into the fascinating circle of the Wicca with Dianne Sylvan.

2| The Spiral Dance: A Rebirth of the Ancient Religion of the Great Goddess by Starhawk

Starhawk’s The Spiral Dance is a must read. It has been over twenty years since first published and still has great power. It was republished with some additions such as how things in the past twenty years changed.

This book is helping you reconnect with the Goddess and tap into incredible powers of ourselves. It is an important piece in a world, where feminism needs as much support as it can get. It is in our opinion one of the most important and best witchcraft books out there.

Men, do not be discouraged from reading The Spiral Dance, it is going to be fun for you too.

1| Animal Speak: The Spiritual & Magical Powers of Creatures Great and Small by Ted Andrews

Ted Andrews, has written a very touching and important book. Animal Speak is a superb book with a lot to learn from. Find your spirit animal and become companions. Nature is in focus nowadays and it is important to encourage people to reconnect with nature and the animal world.

Further the importance of preservation, this book actually emphasizes the benefits of a strong bond with your spiritual animal. There are interesting rituals among them shapeshifting and sacred dances. It is surely a fun read even if you are not a believer.

Meet and work with animals as totems and spirit guides by learning the language of their behaviors within the physical world.

Animal Speak helps you to learn how to identify, meet, and attune to your spirit animals How to discover the power and spiritual significance of more than 100 different animals, how to call upon the protective powers of your animal totem or create and use of the five magical animal rites.

Thank you for reading!