Today I'm reviewing The Hidden meaning of Birds: a spiritual field Guide by Arin Murphy-Hiscock.
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Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Image Source - Cover |
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Generally I like to start out with a disclaimer. I am an contemporary witch. I look for the connection between magic and science without the need to search for a creator. I receive no compensation for these reviews and all my links are standard Amazon links and not affiliate links. I am a practicing photo reader and have spent the last 16 years honing my craft. I offer personal readings by request and have a strong online history that boasts nearly 400,000 views.
I was a little surprised that this was a soft cover book. I started flipping through and quickly realized how fantastic this book would be rolled up and stuck in a back pocket or tossed in a back pack for a quick trip to the park. There is a short index in the back and a small list of resources. The cover is beautifully colored and was a delight to actually hold.
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Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Photo Source - The Hidden Meaning of Birds |
The author was quick to provide us with a "how to use this book" section at the onset. I like the fact she referenced to very reliable sources for bird identification and stated emphatically this was not a complete resource for birds in general. Too often authors like to use titles like "the complete book of..." or "the complete reference..." only to leave out very valid voices on the topic. This was nice to see. The author further explains that the myths and folklore associated are not the ONLY interpretations. Again, well done to the author. I loved the suggestion for the reader to keep a journal. In all sorts of magic the best thing to do is WRITE IT DOWN. You'll be happy you did that later. How much mugwort did I use? Was then done on the Full Moon? Where is that totem?? Trust an old witch when I say, write it down. :)
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Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Photo Source - The Hidden Meaning of Birds |
I loved the chapter on working with the Birds spiritually. This section offer insight into what you're seeing what you're seeing and what guides or totems may await you crediting our tribal kin from all countries with these types of traditional magical practices.
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Photo Credit - Renee Sosanna Olson
Photo Source - The Hidden Meaning of Birds |
Now, on to the birds. The second half of the book takes individual birds and gives us a photo, the genus, popular variants, where the birds live, what their environment is like and the physical description. The author further provides facts, myths, omens and associations for each of the birds listed in the book. One of my favorite sections was the one for the Ibis. I adore the long neck birds and the grace and elegance. The omens associated are knowledge and writing. Perhaps because I've been putting off these book reviews for a bit and the Ibis wants me to get cracking! LOL
The book goes on for over 200 pages of birds and their assorted correspondences. I am in love. I have already decided to take this book with me next time I head out to the Bird Park and try to connect with some of these amazing creatures.
Overall this is a really good book. I had not thought of working with birds in this manner before but I certainly intend on trying now. I highly recommend this book for new witches and crones alike.
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