Description
Book SynopsisFrom the celebrity spirit mediums of the nineteenth century to the TikTok witches hexing the patriarchy, women have long used magic and mysticism to seize back the power they re so often denied. Organized around different approaches women have taken to the occult over the decades creating new magical systems and symbols, using the supernatural for political gain, seeking fame and fortune as spiritual practitioners, questioning and investigating paranormal phenomena, and embracing their witchy identities this book shines a light on these under-appreciated magical pioneers, including: Dion Fortune, who tried to marshal a magical army against Hitler Tituba, the first woman in Salem accused of witchcraft Joan Quigley, personal psychic to Nancy Reagan Pamela Colman-Smith, the artist behind the Rider-Waite tarot deck Bri Luna, the Hoodwitch, social media star and serious magical practitioner Elvira, queer goth sex symbol who defied the Satanic Panic. And more mystical women from American history who found strength through the supernatural and those who are still forging the way today. Weird sisters are doin it for themselves!
Trade ReviewA The Mary Sue Book Club Pick
“A charming book full of fascinating historical figures.”—
BoingBoing“A rich collection of short biographies of women and nonbinary people who were involved with an influence in the occult.”—
The Feminist Book Club“A fascinating and at times infuriating look at the ways in which women have gained power through the occult, been persecuted by it, and forged relationships with one another through it.”—
GeekMom“Anyone who has dabbled in the craft by way of #witchtok will deepen their knowledge immensely by reading this book. And with a final chapter titled “100% That Witch,” you know you’re going to learn a lot and have some fun.”—
BookPage“Does an excellent job of exploring the cultural and racial differences concerning occult practices between women and nonbinary people”—
Book Riot “Reclaims and celebrates forgotten foremothers..enjoyable, re-readable references.”—
Horror DNA“A fun and informative read for anyone with an interest in women’s history, supernatural topics, or anyone who likes witchy romance and wants to go a little deeper into the world of witchy women.”—
Smart Bitches Trashy Books“A thorough and efficient study of those who have come before.”—
Chapter 16
