I was very disappointed in this work on the whole and the reason for that is the book offers virtually nothing new to the Neophyte Wiccans out there that they have not found in previously released Llewellyn books on Witchcraft and Wicca.

Penczak offers this book as a follow up to his “The Inner Temple of Witchcraft” and if you’re of the mind to have a couple of 101 books that take you thru some of the bare bones basics plus a fair amount of supportive material such as planetary correspondences and what-not, then this book and its predecessor are the ones you want.

Frankly if you’re not tired of reading 101 Witchcraft material, then you could do no worse than Penczak’s material. The material covers the usual – grounding, altars, ethics, karma, etc., etc. Chapter 8 begins with the “science” of spell craft where he gets into theory. He dichotomizes spell craft thru petitions and he claims on page 256 that it’s “proper witch etiquette suggests you do only three spells per circle” and only one circle per day. Now nowhere prior to this reference have I ever heard of this restriction before.

As he discusses the Planets and their functions in spell craft, Penczak does give a minor explanation about each individual deity after which the planet is so named. Frankly I preferred his discussion on the Zodiac Signs from pp. 271-279 as it’s material that’s rarely put forth in your typical Wicca 101 book. The Ritual Record Sheet 288 is nicely done though the lines are spaced too close together for my sloppy handwriting to be able to legibly read it later.

With his definition of “Sorcery” on page 295, Penczak makes me wonder if indeed he’s been lurking on one of my Sorcery groups as he nails it right on the head. Then I was impressed with his explanations of Talismans and the art of making Sigils. This is a rare thing for a Witchcraft 101 book and I applaud him for introducing this art to his students.

Finally Penczak goes on to discuss the wheel of the year, the gods and how to form a coven in the last few chapters to help round out the 101 curriculum. Sadly the bibliography only includes the typical Llewellyn fare of experts (sic) and frankly if you have most of the books listed in the bibliography, I see little reason to buy this book for its pricey tag.

Penczak has penned a decent follow up to his previous book and together they make an excellent set. In fact, if you’re of a mind to give two books that’ll take someone from knowing nothing to being a 101 Newbie in the Craft, then these would be the ones you’d want to consider giving them.
Rating: 2 / 5

I have bought and read almost all of the Temple of Witchcraft books and I am extremely pleased with them. I have been looking for a course like this for years and am glad that they are finally here! Would recommend to anyone who is looking to learn the craft!
Rating: 5 / 5

I liked this book. It inspires and educates at the same time. Great for a learning pagan and experienced one also.
Rating: 5 / 5