Book Review: Sacred Land

Sacred Land: Intuitive Gardening for Person, Political & Environmental Change by Clea Danaan. © 2007 Llewellyn Publications. ISBN 978-0-7387-1146-1. Paperback. 266 pages. $15.95 US.

Because of the horrible drought and intense heat wave the south has been through (and is still experiencing), gardening is the farthest thing from my mind at the moment. I was intrigued to be able to review this book though, as I was curious as to how gardening could possibly cause a political change. I understand the personal and environmental.

The author has divided the book into chapters based on each of the four elements, supplying not only spiritual and organic ways of gardening, but also shares with us goddesses of nature and sacred sisters in the world who have used their love of the earth and gardening to make a change in their lives and in the lives of those around them. The political aspect was then made clear to me. We are also generously supplied with room at the end of each chapter for personal notes and thoughts. Of which I had many ;)

The way Clea draws connections from gardening into the spiritual lives of Wiccans and Witches is fantastically brilliant. She has thoughtfully poured her heart and soul onto these pages and it's unmistakable when reading it. This is a wonderful read and powerful journey. Be prepared for a change if you choose to read this (which I suggest). If you are drawn to gardening and have an affinity to authors like Ellen Dugan and Ann Moura, this is the perfect book for your collection.