A reading group for those interested in Paganism, folklore, the history of witchcraft, and magic. The group is open to anyone who would like to discuss books from a pagan, folkloric, witchy or occult perspective, be they long-time practitioners or just curious about exploring the subject. For this book group, we don’t require attendees to read the book cover to cover (though please do if you can!), but familiarity with the text will help participants engage in the discussion. 

This book combines political and social activism and magic in a uniquely clear and practical way. The book starts with a brief exploration of why (and whether or not we should) use magical practice in for activism, then goes on to give a history of this kind of practice. It then gives a practical outline of what a practitioner would need to create their own spells, sigils, and rituals, then gives practical examples of spells decided by the author in his actism work. The examples in the book largely relate to US politics, but can fairly easily be applied to our domestic and international political injustice.

Come ready to talk about your thoughts on the text, and if you try out any of the rituals, we’d love to hear about your experiences.

From the Publisher:

A guide for agents of magical change.

From the creator of the “Spell to Bind Donald Trump and All Those Who Abet Him,” Magic for the Resistance has been helping magical practitioners create a more just and equitable world since 2018.

Author Michael M. Hughes, upon reflecting on recent events, has revised and updated this essential title for the current political climate. From theory and reflections on a tense world to practical advice, this crash-course guide to magic is an on-ramp to the occult for the politically frustrated.

Calling upon revolutionary feminists and radical magic practitioners across time, including Allen Ginsberg and those who hexed Hitler in the 1940s, Hughes has built a concise, powerful magical tool kit for modern practitioners. Whether it is through one of the fifteen spells, advice on working magic in public, or a guide to “guerilla magic,” this book suggests grounded ways to keep forward momentum against fascism. Magic for the Resistance provides vital advice on building community and self-care (magical and non) to nourish the spirits of overworked and overwhelmed activists and freedom fighters.

Michael M. Hughes is an author, speaker, magical thinker, and activist. He is the creator of the internationally viral “Spell to Bind Donald Trump and All Those Who Abet Him,” the largest magical working in history. He speaks on politics, magic, pop culture, psychedelics, the paranormal, and tarot. You can sign up for his newsletter at michaelmhughes.com

The book is available from Five Leaves Bookshop for 15% off but feel free to get it elsewhere (including the library) if you’d prefer. To access the discount, email your order to bookshop@fiveleaves.co.uk or come by the shop.