Happy Hump Day everyone! I hope your Wednesday has started off well. We are doing renovations and remodeling in Mystic Dragon’s Lair. Needless to say, I have been busy. I have always been interested in Norse Paganism and once I found out that I have Scandinavian ancestry, I feel the pull even more strongly.
When given the chance ti review this title, I knew I had to dive in! Let’s get to it shall we?
Spinning Wyrd: A Journey Through the Nordic Mysteries
Author: Ryan Smith
Publisher: Llewellyn Publications
Published: August 8, 2023
Book Length: 200 pages
Genre: Non-Fiction, Spiritual, Norse Paganism
Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ (*Received a free copy via the publisher to review*)
Buy the book: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Llewellyn
In a society where being an individual is everything right now, we often forget about the connections we do have. Wyrd is described in this book as the connection between all things and people. I thing this is something that more people need to read, even those not interested in practicing Norse Paganism.
There is a specific meditation Ryan has in the book that brings one into a place where they can really understand the threads that link us all. This is really powerful if done correctly and man some really need to remember that one interaction can have a ripple affect.
Although this book is packed with in-depth information, I think my favorite part was where the author discussed the impact social media has had on spirituality. This really hit home to me…I do own a metaphysical store after all. Ryan mentions how spirituality has become more about what you spend or buy rather than how you pray. This could not be more true! I have seen so many people selling those popular “Started Witch Kits.” We do not sell things like that in our store. Rather, I tell those interested in started to ask nature for signs…you do not need to spend a lot of money to begin a spiritual journey.
For anyone wanting a more in-depth look at some practices in Nordic Spirituality, this is a wonderful tool that offers information about the 4 parts of the body, our interconnectedness, the Troll Cross, Valkyries, and so much more. It is written very well but some of the terminology may be difficult for those who are beginners to this belief system. I have always been one to be found sounding out the Norse words when I am reading alone and it is a funny sight that is for sure. I enjoyed the writing but it did feel more academic at times. This is not something that bothers me but may be an issue for some.
All in all, this is a wonderful tool for those looking to begin or even expand their practice in Nordic Magick. Like I said earlier, the section on Wyrd would be wonderful for anyone to read and dive into more deeply. I look forward to reading more works by this author.
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