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Whether you're looking to be entertained by a spooky story, you want to educate yourself on some cultural history, or you're interested in exploring a spiritual path, perhaps you're looking for a witch book. When it comes to books about witches, there's a wide range of options, from spellbinding (get it?) YA novels complete with love triangles, to fascinating real-life memoirs, to actual spell books, complete with instructions how how to make a love spell or three (yes, they're real).
The concept of witchcraft has existed for at least as long as recorded history. Witches appear in the religious texts, mythology, and folk tales around the world, from the Odyssey to Old Testament's Book of Samuel. Of course, many of us grew up reading or watching more recent—and purely fictional—witch stories like The Craft or Harry Potter. But while there’s plenty of witchy fiction to keep you occupied for years, how about checking out some nonfiction as well? More than a million Americans follow some sort of witchcraft or pagan tradition, and these practices have a long and fascinating history and present.
While Wicca and other neo-paganism might dominate #WitchTok, there are many other spiritual traditions that can fall under the umbrella of "witchcraft." While anyone is welcome to read up on publicly published books about them, keep in mind that some traditions are what's called a "closed practice." These traditions often grow out of a specific cultural context, require an invitation or initiation to practice, and are often passed down through a community or family. Closed practices aren't for just anyone to dabble in, so make sure you do your research before you start any rituals.
Whatever reason you want to read about witches, there’s a magickal book out there for you. Here are some to get you started.
The first book in the Warring Gods series follows two women on a quest in a magical world inspired by the history and folklore of colonial South America.
In her latest book, Sophie Saint Thomas looks at the intersection of weed and witchcraft.
Weiser Books Heal the Witch Wound: Reclaim Your Magic and Step Into Your Power
Celeste Larsen believes everyone has the potential to be a witch; we're held back only by the "witch wound." She writes, "Healing the witch wound is not about going back in time or dwelling on the atrocities of the past—quite the opposite. This work is about taking steps now to reclaim your power, live a more magical life, and embody your most authentic self."
Gabriela Herstik’s Embody Your Magick offers creative prompts, ritual instructions, and DIY spells, perfect for anyone beginning their spiritual journey.
This cozy romance novel follows a witch who accepts a plea to train three young witches... and encounters a handsome librarian who would do anything to protect the children.
Row House Publishing The Altar Within: A Radical Devotional Guide to Liberate the Divine Self
Pushing back on #lightandlove and #goodvibesonly spirtualism, Juliet Diaz's latest book is a guide to self-worship, self-discovery, and self-activism,
This epic fantasy inspired by Ancient Egypt follows Sylvia, the heir to the scorched kingdom, as she strikes a bargain with her greatest enemy in an attempt to reclaim her throne.
Kitchen Witch Press Conversations with the Tarot: Bewitching Meditations on Reading the Cards
This unique book combines prose poetry, witchy insights, and tarot instruction for a one-of-a-kind way of looking at the cards.
In her new book, Gabriela Herstik creates a guide on how to work with the divine erotic and sex magick to embody your higher sexual self.
This book is dedicated to protection and reversal magick, aka learning how to avoid and fight off negative energy and unwanted spells from others.
Set in a fantasy version of the Viking Age, this novel follows two women—one desperate only to save her missing sister, the other a witch destined to become queen of Norway.
Brujas examines the history and present of witches of culture, showing how modern brujas are reclaiming their ancestral traditions.
This captivating YA romance follows Yadriel, a trans boy determined to prove himself a real brujo, and Julian, the ghost he summons by mistake.
Alexis Henderson’s debut novel follows Immanuelle, a biracial young woman living in a strict society. When she learns that her late mother consorted with witches, everything changes.
Hardie Grant Mama Moon’s Book of Magic: A Life-Changing Guide to Star Signs, Spells, Crystals, Manifestations and Living a Magical Existence
Semra Haksever’s Mama Moon’s Book of Magic tells you how to use magic to get stuff done, whether you’re trying to get a promotion or fall in love.
Third-generation witch Juliet Diaz guides the reader on how to connect with their inner witch, from creating rituals to working with the Moon.
This fantasy novel following a stormsinger and a pirate hunter has been called perfect for "a Pirates of the Caribbean fan looking for a fresh take that still scratches the itch."
This book explores what the author calls “American brujeria,” meaning "the fascinating blend of American and Mexican folk magic currently practiced by those living in the US but whose roots are steeped in Mexican culture."
Harper Design Spells for the Modern Mystic: A Ritual Guidebook and Spell-Casting Kit
Kelley and Brandon Knight, who run the popular brand Modern Mystic Shop, also have a guidebook featuring 25 rituals and spells.
This sweet YA novel has been described as "Dumplin’ meets The Craft."
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