Suggested Reading
With so many well written books on the topic of Goddess Spirituality and Diainc Wicca by teachers, scholars and priestesses of the Goddess Path, it is impossible to name them all. This short list of books are just a few of my own personal recommendations for those who are either starting out new on the Goddess Path or are simply curious as to what it's all about. May your thirst for understanding be quenched and the fires of your spirit grow bright! Happy Reading!
The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley (Fiction) This is a wonderful introduction to the priestess path and of those who would follow the Goddess. It is a retelling of the Arthurian legend told from the perspective of Morgaine, Arthurs sister and priestess of Avalon. This book has inspired and awakened the love of Goddess for many women on the path today.
The Spiral Dance: A Rebirth of the Ancient Religion of the Goddess by Starhawk: Without a doubt one of the most influential books of the neo-paganism, Witchcraft and Goddess Spirituality and one no beginner should be without. It is probably responsible for many women starting up their own worship circles and covens here in the U.S with a focus on Goddess and feminism more so than any other book is or was. It is a wonderful book that explores the herstory of Goddess, of Witchcraft, eco-spirituality and feminism. Highly Recommended.
PaGaian Cosmology: Re-inventing Earth-based Goddess Religion by Glenys Livingstone PhD - By far, one of the most important books in my collection. My ideas and philosophy on spirituality have been greatly influenced by Glenys's work. Her book and its teachings have become part of the heart beating at the center of my own spiritual practice. Through her personal "Great Work", Glenys shares with us a dazzling, powerful and inspiring blend of mythology, art, poetry and ritual that celebrate the turning of the wheel of the year in which she refers to as “Seasonal Moments". Her profound wisdom and teachings throughout this book are incredibly deep and insightful. This is a book meant to be not only read but lived and its wisdom danced into being. When one puts into practice and lives the teachings presented in this book, they open themselves up to the awareness of the beautiful marriage of the scientific and spiritual that only deepens the connection and understanding of the ever unfolding Sacred. This is a book that even the non-theist or the spiritual atheist can appreciate. Highly recommended
Goddess Path by Patricia Monaghan: A wonderful intro to Goddess Feminist Spirituality for anyone, regardless of gender. In each chapter of this book you will learn about, myth, symbols, feast days and invocations. She includes suggested activities as well. Highly recommended reading.
Ariadne's Thread by Shekhinah Mountainwater: This is one of my first books. It is an excellent intro book as well as for seasoned priestess alike.
Casting the Circle by Diane Stein: Another one of my favorites. In fact many of Diane Stein’s books are wonderful. This book introduces us to Goddess and who She is, how She works and how we manifest Her Divine energy within ourselves by way of ritual.
Guide to Goddess Craft by Diane Stein: Again, another easy read and not 'in your face' kind of book about Goddess Craft. Excellent choice for those just starting on the path.
Women's Rites, Women's Mysteries: Intuitive Ritual Creation by Ruth Barrette: By far one of my favorite books on the topic of Dianic Feminist Wicca and Goddess focused spirituality. This book is literally a 'step-by-step' book that teaches women how to create empowering, transformative rituals. This is not a cook-book of "how to" do this but instead a guide that teaches you how to think like a ritualist so that you can learn to create powerful rituals that can bring you closer to Goddess and help you transform your life. For any woman or group of women who are developing their own working or worship circle, this book is a "Must Have."
Dancing with Goddess by Deanne Quarrie (Bendis): Deanne is an absolutely wonderful woman and fabulous teacher. I wish this book had been out many moons ago when I first started this path. This is an excellent Goddess intro with a super friendly approach.
Jambalaya: The Natural Women's Book of Ritual and Personal Charms by Luisa Teish: With story as your vehicle, and Teish as your guide, you are lead on a fascinating, inspirational and magical journey into the world of folk magic, sprinkled with bits of Hoodoo and Voudou and African-American beliefs and traditions of the south. A lot of story-telling, a bit auto-biographical, and extremely insightful. This book is an absolute *Must Read*.
Cauldron of Change-De-Anna Alba: Another excellent introduction to Dianic Wicca and Goddess Focused spiritual practice. This book is a wonderful guide to developing your Dianic circle or simply learn about Goddess Spirituality.
Goddess Studies
From an anthropological and mythological perspective, these books are highly suggested:
Once and Future Goddess: A Sweeping Visual Chronicle of the Sacred Female and Her Reemergence in the Cult by Elinor Gadon
When God Was a Woman by Merlin Stone
Ancient Mirrors of Womanhood by Merlin Stone
Lost Goddess of Early Greece by Charlene Spretnak
Rebirth of the Goddess: Finding Meaning in Feminist Spirituality by Carol Christ
The Great Cosmic Womb: Rediscovering the Religion of the Earth by Monica Sjoo & Barbra Moor