Roots, Branches & Spirits: The Folkways & Witchery of Appalachia

Written by H. Byron Ballard and Alex Bledsoe

Narrated by Tiffany Morgan

The southern Appalachians are rich in folk magic and witchery. This book explores the region's customs and traditions for magical healing, luck, prosperity, and more. Author Byron Ballard-known as the village witch of Asheville, North Carolina-teaches you about the old ways and why they work, from dowsing to communicating with spirits.

Learn the deeper meaning of magic hands for finding, haint blue doors, and herbs and plants for healing. Discover hands-on tips for creating tinctures and salves, attuning to the phases of the moon, interpreting omens, and other folkways passed down through generations of those who call the Blue Ridge Mountains home. Part cultural journey and part magical guide, this book uncovers the authentic traditions of one of North America's most spiritually vibrant regions.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tantor Media, Inc
• Release date: Feb 8, 2021
• ISBN: 9781705298886

H. Byron Ballard

H. Byron Ballard, BA, MFA (Asheville, NC) is a western NC native, teacher, folklorist, and writer. She has served as a featured speaker and teacher at several festivals and conferences, including the Sacred Space Conference, Pagan Spirit Gathering, Starwood, Hexfest and many others. She serves as senior priestess and co-founder of Mother Grove Goddess Temple and the Coalition of Earth Religions/CERES, both in Asheville, NC. She podcasts about Appalachian folkways on "Wyrd Mountain Gals." Her essays are featured in several anthologies and she writes a regular column for SageWoman Magazine. Find her online at www.myvillagewitch.com.

Reviews for Roots, Branches & Spirits

[DeDe Grumbles · Rating: 1 out of 5 stars]

You won't learn how Granny lived without modern conveniences here. It's just another rant from another nihilistic atheist about the evils of colonialism and those darned protestants. She actually instructs to meditate on a candle... As if that has something to do with the ways of our folk. Pass this one by, unless, of course, you aren't yet sick of marxist talking points.

[Katie S · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I was about halfway through the audiobook when I put it on my booklist. If I find myself taking notes and placing bookmarks, I get a physical copy when it crosses my path. It's written in a fairly lighthearted tone despite some heavier topics. I found it respectful of the diversity in beliefs and practices. The narration was pleasant and clear. I enjoyed this book a great deal.