Modern Pagans: An Investigation of Contemporary Pagan Practices (Re/Search) [Paperback]

I think that one of the reasons for that is because of the location of the authors themselves and also because Paganism in its various incarnations is probably a bit more welcome in that area than, say, the Midwest, the Bible Belt(where I live). The reason why this book is invaluable is that it talks about experiences. Contemporary Paganism is an experiential religion, so for someone who has been studying Paganism for a good set of months and is thinking of initiating, this book would give them some perspectives of other Pagans.

There is great emphasis placed on sexuality in this book, and to some, that may look as if Pagans are obsessed with sex, but let's face it: there are people who are Pagan because it gives them the opportunity to express themselves in a highly sexual manner and commune with the Divine. No, not all Pagans express themselves as sexually as Carol Queen or the Ravenhearts, but it exists within the community so it must be dealt with. As for the emphasis on Wiccans and Witches and not Santeria, Vodun, Yoruba, or Asatru, I think that in time there will be more books that detail the experiences of the practitioners of those religions (and eventually, there may be a compendium with a diverse representation of Pagan religions and faiths). Also, Asatru is mentioned in the interview with Diana Paxson.

There are other books similar to this that feature interviews with some of the same people, but books that describe the experiences of Pagans are just as necessary as those that talk about ritual, deity structure, magick, and the like. This book, for all its faults or misgivings is still a great book for those who are studying Paganism and even some who are not, but have an open mind towards it. I recommend it highly!

In this book, Paganism is defined as any polytheistic religion, so beliefs not usually considered Pagan exist comfortably here. The authors have managed to present an intelligent, comprehensive overview of numerous theologies laced with poignant commentaries and anecdotes from almost 50 practicing Pagans. The stories and paths each of these people tell and follow are as varied and unique as the ways they've managed to incorporate their beliefs into everyday life. Topics range from pagan parenting to polyamory (maintaining loving sexual relationships with more than one primary partner). With their frank discussions of sex parties, the Great Rite, and sacred prostitution some of these pagans may cause raised eyebrows in the more sheltered reader. Counterbalancing these, however, are, among other interviews, the introspective thoughts of Matthew Fox, former Catholic priest, excommunicated by Rome for his "feminist theology" and for associating too closely with Pagans.

My favorite interview was with Joi Wolfwomyn, a Pagan and mother. Drawing on the isolation and "otherness" she felt as a bi-racial adopted child in a conservative Christian family, and the time spent in a mental institution as an adolescent, she tells how transcended her painful past.

With an extensive glossary and recommended reading/resource list in the back (in addition to the ones scattered throughout the book), Modern Pagans is a priceless addition to any well-read theologian's collection, and a fascinating, approachable introduction to Paganism for the novice. Every page provided new information, every interview a fresh perspective.

This collection of conversations is a glimpse of certain facets of the modern pagan movement/community. Due to Vale's San Francisco-base, the participants are slightly Bay Area/northern California-centric, although there are representations from around the US and the UK. The beliefs discussed are predominantly modern Wicca, especially people associated with the Bay Area Reclaiming group.

The photography is, again, as good as the interviews. In keeping with the pagan belief in life as a circle, the photos with each inteview show the subjects as children, teens and adults. The personal evolutions are quite varied and beautiful.