REVIEW

Freya Aswynn’s book:

LEAVES OF YGGDRASIL

This is the definitive book on the Northern Tradition: the yardstick against which all other Rune-Books will be judged. Much of this material has never before appeared in print, and illustrates the deep insights which this talented and dedicated Priestess of Odin has been vouchsafed into her chosen Path.

The Runes have always been regarded as mysterious, but the fact that this book throws a great deal of new light on the subject enhances rather than diminishes their fascination, revealing a far more complex theology than had previously been known and pointing the way for the reader to pursue his/her spiritual quest.

There are also detailed sections on divination (beyond mere “fortune-telling”, this shows how the Runes are used in psychotherapeutic counselling) and magickal work, where the author’s refreshingly candid approach gives the reader all the information required. As is explained, the potency of the Runes can make them dangerous if mishandled, but there is no hypocritical refuge in “secrecy”; the facts are straightforwardly presented and the reader must take responsibility for his/her use of them.

The final chapter concerns Women’s Mysteries and the pivotal role of women in Odinism, far too long misrepresented as a men-only warrior cult. No valid system can function without due recognition of half the human race, and Freya restores the balance.

216 pages of comprehensive text and clear line-drawings and diagrams, this book offers valuable information to every Occultist, whether or not your way is that of the Asatru.

Taken from the Dark Lily Journal No 8, Society of Dark Lily (London 1989).