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As a more-or-less full time member of the online pagan community for the past several years, I have often seen questions posed regarding the practicality and/or spiritual correctness of combining elements of Druidry with those of Wicca or Witchcraft. In his latest book, Druidcraft: the Magic of Wicca and Druidry, Philip Carr-Gomm addresses this subject in depth. From an examination of the friendship and interaction between Gerald Gardner, the father of Wicca, and Ross Nichols, founder of the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids, and a major figure behind the modern revival of Druidry, to a series of lessons offering useful and practical ways to combine various aspects of these two paths, the author leads us on a spiritual quest involving integration through understanding. The subject matter is presented in a manner that tends to hold the reader's interest while, at the same time, providing sound footing for the theories that are being promoted. It should be noted perhaps that, like virtually any material of this nature, this crossing of spiritualities will be warmly embraced in some sectors while being rejected out of hand in some of the more strictly traditional groups. The author habitually uses the terms Wiccan and Witch interchangeably, but offers a reasonable and rational explanation for doing so. It is relieving to note that nowhere does he claim that Wicca is an ancient Celtic path; merely that it draws some of its foundations from the older beliefs. The book's most positive quality may well be its consistent emphasis on the common links that exist between these paths, as opposed to pointing out the differences. In summary, I definitely considered it a good read and would highly recommend it to anyone interested in this subject, even more highly to those who may be questioning the wisdom of merging elements of these two belief structures; Wiccans who are drawn to certain aspects of Druidry, as well as Druids who embrace some Wiccan philosophies or practices. Carr-Gomm has done his usual excellent job, as his readers have come to expect, of presenting his case in a clear and concise manner, leaving the reader to reach conclusions and make choices based on knowledge and understanding. Aldwyn Draigh /|\, Contributing Editor, Echoed Voices. Copyright © April 2003 Permission granted to reproduce with credits
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