Despite being extraordinarily referenced, this book contains inaccuracies on almost every page. Whether it be suggesting that most witches were burned during the witchtrials (when most were hanged), or suggesting that the origins of Santa have something to do with a mushroom, this book is filled with historical misconceptions, enormous leaps of speculation presented as fact, a poor selection of source material (which also seem to have been poorly read), simplification of facts which contort them beyond recognition, and what can only be described as a willful ignorance of actual scholarship. Without doubt one of the worst books on witchcraft I have ever read

Judika Illes' comprehensive encyclopedia is an excellent information source on many, many things related to witchcraft and witches. It is obvious that a lot of thought and consideration went into this book. Like her previous work, The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells, this book is HUGE. Even if you're not into witchcraft, you should still buy it- it could be useful for weight-lifting.

The writing is clear and concise-- a good thing in a metaphysical book. The book is easy to use for both beginners and witchcraft experts. Also, I find the non-alphabetical categories to be refreshing and I especially liked the section on witches is manga and anime, categories often ignored.