The Real Halloween: Ritual and Magic for the New Millennium by Morgan, Sheena (2003) Paperback

by Sheena Morgan

Most Halloween books are for kids, but here's one that adults will enjoy, too! Filled with vivid, atmospheric color photos and illustrations, The Real Halloween opens with a fascinating history of Halloween's past and changing traditions. It's an overview of the holiday from ancient times to the present, shedding light on sacrificial pagan rituals, describing the medieval autumn religious festival, and concluding with the modern secular holiday's goblins, ghosts, costumes, and trick-or-treat rituals. Part Two takes readers to the present time, putting the emphasis on fun. It's a collection of games, crafts, recipes, and treats for Halloween party time. It also includes ideas for making jack-o'-lanterns, and presents recipes for pumpkin pie that everybody will love. The book's third and final section is a whimsical look into the future, with fortune-telling methods that use autumn leaves, nuts, cakes, and mirrors. It also features directions for making several magic charms, including "love apples" to keep romantic relationships sweet. Approximately 100 full-color illustrations.

128 pages, Paperback

First published August 10, 2002

Reviews

[Tea · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is filled of nifty ideas for old world style Hallowe'en! I enjoyed it's history of Halloween and it was just a joy to read.

[W · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has some fun folklore and traditions, and my favorite recipe for Pan de Muerto.