Witches Then and Now: Inside Their Mysterious World (U)

This amazingly visual book connects the past with the present, illustrating not just the long history of witches and witch trials, but also their subculture and fascination today. Whether she’s an old crone stirring a bubbling cauldron or a teenager discovering her magic for the first time, witches have been a part of our stories since humans began writing stories—even before! We’ll tell you all about the history of the witch, including the infamous trials in Europe and Salem, and introduce you to some of the craft’s most famous faces like Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. Learn about how the witch became a feminist symbol and check out some spellbinding vacation spots. We’ll explore representations of the witch in lore and pop culture, from The Odyssey’s witch-goddess Circe to Harry Potter’s Hermione Granger. Find out how The Wizard of Oz changed the perception of the spell-casters, and get the scoop on The Witches remake starring Anne Hathaway. Practicing witches let you know how to get in touch with your inner witch and let you in on what really goes on in contemporary covens. There’s even a primer on spellwork—no cauldron required!