Jambalaya: The Natural Woman's Book of Personal Charms and Practical Rituals

Rating:
Summary: WOW
Review: This book left me in absolute awe. Luisah Teish is an amazing author. I half to say that this is by far one of the best books I have ever had the pleasure of owning. Teish presents an clear and concise work, complete with exercises, charts, and a myriad of other things. I had recently been in contact with Teish via On-line E-mail, I wrote her asking some questions about her book and if it could apply to males such as my self also. She was quick to respond and gave me all the information I wanted. Unlike many authors whom Ive written, Teish was kind, and generous with he advice. She explained that allthough her book was aimed at women, that males could use the information in her work aswell, i have found that it has deepened my understanding of my spiritual path and helped me more to grow in respect for the Goddess in every woman. Thank you Teish for this wonderfull, deeply profound work.

Rating:
Summary: YES YES YES
Review: This is a wonderful treasure of African spirituality. This book is written in a warm and beautiful way where the author speaks about her childhood and personal experiences. Teish, a priestess of Oshun is an author who should not be passed up. I am also from New Orleans like her and can relate to many of the things she describes. If you want to discover the african spirits for yourself then buy this book, you will not be dissapointed.

Rating:
Summary: What are you waiting for? BUY THIS BOOK!
Review: This is not a book on Haitian Voudun, far from it. This is a book on New Orleans Voodoo, which lately has become like an African American form of Wicca. "No Pon intended." But honestly this is a good book, fun to read and really entertaining. When anyone who has little knowledge of Voodoo or Santeria, ask me for a good book, I always recommend this one. The reader is taken on a wonderful journey through Luisah Telsh's life, who may I add is a fellow Priestess of our mother Ochun, as well as a Mambo priestess. There are some good prayers, spells, poems; you will also learn how to construct an altar for your Ancestors. Learn the similarities of the Orishas and the Voodoo Lwas. Many will find the section on hexing a good read, as well as the Ritual at the end of each chapter. There is one problem I found in this book. When one gives to the Orisha an offering, one must first consult using the obi oracle, to see if that particular Orisha is pleased with the offering, and if anything else is required from the Orisha. Sadly to say Luisah Telsh did not go into full detail about that. Infact she does not even mention it. Those who are in the Orisha communities know this as a fact, and a person who has no knowledge would not. But with that aside, I must say the book is still a good read. Especially for those who are interested in simple basic rituals of empowerment. This book is a mix of Yoruba and Voodoo religions, and it is really not aimed any any particular path. Good and fun, buts don't expect any big secrets to be revealed here.