Hoodoo Shrines and Altars: Sacred Spaces in Conjure and Rootwork

Before studying this book, I knew virtually Nothing about the traditions or history of Hoodoo.The print in this book is small, but comprehensive. It points to the rich traditions of African magics and the assimilation of these ancient rituals into the early American culture from the slave era onwards. Out of necessity, of course. Within these pages, we find descriptions of Altars of all kinds ranging from honouring the ancestors, saint (Catholic) altars, candle altars, money attraction altars to justified enemy action rituals! There are detailed descriptions of the different types and uses for incense and a myriad of altar covering cloths, to the meanings of colour .. I was and still am Amazed!Here, in this book is a wealth of information of all things to do with building altars for virtually any purpose you, the reader designates!I was a bit "let down" (at first) at the lack of pictures of altar types ... but as I read on, I realised that the building and decorating of said altars, is a deeply personal and individual thing. How could the author cover every possibility of an altar's design?Overall, this book is a must for anyone constructing an altar for what ever purpose desired. For me, this book is a go-to reference book of high calibre! I have built 2 altars in my living space from the concepts within this book. I've awarded the book only 4 Stars because of the small print, in which readers with eye infirmities might find the print size a challenge, but overall, despite the limitations of print size and the lack of altar illustrations, this book is almost Exceptional.It is very worthwhile to have a copy of this book in your Library- get it!!

This is a great introduction to Hoodoo - in general dispelling myths, providing history, and including cultural background of the work. It also provides more technical knowledge, tools, ingredients, and steps for the more experienced practitioner. The author's conversational writing style is an invitation to keep reading as compared to the many dry books on spells and magic that read like shopping lists. By providing the reasoning behind different pieces (i.e. why an altar would face a certain direction, when to perform a particular working) the reader can not only understand how to do the workings included, but also begin to adapt and rework spells to fit their own needs or situations.

Very detailed and concise. The book was not written with a bunch of boring fillers. Real information that was simple to understand especially because I am so new to learning Hoodoo.

Easy to read and informative! Great book for beginners, and even a little extra information. Everything you need to know about Altar.

Wonderful book. Lots of helpful information in it. Some I knew and some I didn't. Will certainly purchase more from this author in the future.