This book touts itself as a resource on “the history and practice of spiritual Novenas, cleansings, healings, and blessings from Southern Italy.” After reading the book myself, I’d say that it counts as such, with a few important qualifications. For one thing, if you aren’t comfortable with the important role Catholicism has played in Italian folk magic, this book is NOT for you. I mean, it was literally written by a priest. Expect a lot of references to Christianity, the Roman Catholic Church, and their connection to this specific sect of magic. (That being said, Taumaturgo does a phenomenal job of giving pagan traditions their fair due, and only questioning them when it comes to questionable historical accounts. It’s clear he tries to be as impartial as he can be, considering the position he holds.) The other, more prominent problem is that Taumaturgo sites a man named Vito Quattrocchi as one of his sources throughout the entirety of the book. Quattrocchi is a well-documented racist, anti-semite, and homophobe, so he is NOT the kind of man you want to have associated with your magical practice! (If you don’t believe me, just search his Facebook and see for yourself.) Thankfully, Taumaturgo does a fantastic job of citing all of his sources in extensive footnotes throughout the whole book. My personal recommendation is to avoid any of the practices associated with Vito Quattrocchi. If you feel compelled to use all of the material, PLEASE be careful that you’re not accidentally appropriating Hoodoo practices, as Quattrocchi has a history of pulling from the African diaspora to fill in blanks within his family’s practice, too. (Taumaturgo even admits as much himself in the book.)

      All of that being said, Taumaturgo pulls from a wide variety of sources which are more reputable and authentic. It is very easy to completely avoid the parts citing Quattrocchi and learn something very important about Italian folk magic along the way! One of my favorite parts of this book was it’s attempt to dive into the sociological history of why the tradition Taumaturgo calls “Benedicaria” has come into being. There is actual context given to these Novenas and spells before the practice of magic is even broached as a subject. This is especially important for people trying to search for the more historical aspects of this tradition, and will certainly give any witch some of the background she needs in understanding “Benedicaria.” (I hesitate to use that word only because it was invented by Quattrocchi.) Ultimately, there is plenty to learn from this book, even without touching the material that’s questionably sourced. A thorough index, along with a vast Appendix of prayers to Saints tops off what I would consider to be a very practical read for those interested in Italian folk magic. I rate this book a 4 out of 5 stars!

Overall:

- This book gets 4 out of 5 stars!

- Expect a LOT of Catholicism and it’s intertwined history with this tradition.

- Avoid any of the material sourced by Vito Quattrocchi.

- You will be reading a general overview of Italian folk magic in its sociological, theological, and practical applications.