Dowsing for Divinity

Val Thomas (2019), Of Chalk and Flint: A Way of Norfolk Magic, Troy Books.

I’ve been wanting to read this book for ages, ever since I heard Val Thomas talking about Chalk and Flint as the Lady and Lord of Norfolk, and the book is excellent. I’m originally from Hampshire, which also has chalk and flint in its geology, and so the magic of these two is embedded deep in my bones.

I finally managed to get a copy thanks to The Spiral House Bookshop in Portland, Oregon.

It’s rare to find a book on witchcraft that’s so beautifully embedded in its landscape and botany and local sacred sites. It’s a beautiful book and I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to get in touch with their own local flora, fauna, folklore, and Fae.

It gives detailed information about the deities and saints of Norfolk, the spirits of place, sacred places, each lovingly described and situated in their historic context.

I especially liked the way the festivals, and the times of year between the festivals are described, with details of what plants are growing at the different times of year.

There’s chapters exploring the magical animals and birds of Norfolk; the magical tools of the Nameless Tradition; what items are used for spells and rituals; the Pagan and magical community of Norfolk; and the prospects for the future.

The details may differ, but the overall approach to ritual is quite similar to mine. I also enjoy writing rituals based on folklore and Arthurian stories such as Gawain and the Green Knight.

As my friend The River Crow wrote in her review of the book:

This book is outstanding. It is a true love letter to the county of Norfolk, the land, sea, and sky that comprise this magical part of the country, its animals, plants, and spirits, its folklore and enchantment.

Definitely a classic of witchcraft literature, and one that I will be dipping into for magical purposes for years to come. The writing style is lovely too.