The Witches' Almanac: Issue 34, Spring 2015 to Spring 2016: Fire: The Transformer
<p>Founded in 1971 by Elizabeth Pepper, the art director of <i>Gourmet</i> magazine for many years, <i>The Witches' Almanac </i>is a witty, literate, and sophisticated publication that appeals to general readers as well as hard-core Wiccans. At one level, it is a pop reference that will fascinate anyone interested in folklore, mythology, and culture, but at another, it is the most sophisticated and wide-ranging annual guide for the Wiccan enthusiast.</p><p>Modeled after the <i>Old Farmers' Almanac</i>, it includes information related to the annual Moon Calendar (weather forecasts and horoscopes), as well as legends, rituals, herbal secrets, interviews, mystic incantations, interviews, and many a curious tale of good and evil. Although it is an annual publication, only about 15 percent of the content is specific to the date range of each issue.</p><p>The theme of <i>Issue 34</i> (Spring 2015--Spring 2016) is Fire the Transformer, and among our lineup of obscurities is the Krampus, a Wassail recipe, Botanicas, the Restless Dead, Rum, and the Tibetan Dorje.</p>