The Enchanted Forest - The Magical Lore of Trees

by Yvonne Aburrow
Published by Capall Bann (1993 )

For those of us with a deep interest in trees (and I imagine that’s just about anyone reading these pages!) this is a wonderful book. The first six chapters give information on the mythology, symbolism and folk customs surrounding trees, the concept of the Tree as the Cosmic Axis, tree alphabets – Ogham and Coelbren, Runes, tree spirits, trees and weather and the use of trees in magic. By the very nature of this work these are sometimes brief and would probably act as a catalyst for readers to go deeper and find out more on particular subjects that interest them. For example, the Ogham is covered in barely 4 pages, and whilst the Bibliography mentions The White Goddess there is little else listed for a reader to find more in-depth information. A small point, but perhaps important.
The heart of the book, and its true strength is the Tree Index pages where many tree species from around the world are listed and described in some detail. For each entry the Latin name, the family, the folk name, etymology, polarity, element, associated planet, deity, rune and Ogham are all listed, together with a list of some well known varieties. There are sketches of each tree, and a large description of the magical uses, medicinal uses, folklore, mythology and associated rhymes and songs.
If you wish to learn more about trees and their associated lore then this will be a book you will enjoy.

Priced £10.95 (July 2003)

To buy The Enchanted Forest direct from Capall Bann click here

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