The Handbook of Urban Druidry

We are blessed today with many good Druid authors writing on the subject, although I remember a time when books about Druidry were hard to find, particularly ones written specifically for those new to the path. Here is a review from OBOD member Polly Morris about a great introductory book entitled ‘The Handbook of Urban Druidry – Modern Druidry for All’ by Brendan Howlin (Moon Books). With the majority of Druids coming from urban environments, this useful little book encourages the reader to find connection and inspiration at the heart of city life, illustrating that the Divine is indeed everywhere!

‘Have you ever thought that there must be a better way to live than
the way you do now?’ begins this engaging little book. If you think
it sounds like yet another self-help manual, then think again, for it
soon becomes abundantly clear that we are in a safe pair of hands.
Brendan Howlin writes exactly as I imagine he speaks. Here is a
friendly down to earth voice with a solid helping of common sense and
a good dash of humour, the kind of voice you could listen to for
hours. The book is aimed at those new to Druidry and, as the title
suggests, living in an urban environment. Not that the rural Druid
would feel excluded in any way, and there’s plenty of interest here
here for even the seasoned Druid.

Brendan begins by tackling lifestyle and its difficulties for the
average stressed and overworked city dweller. First comes learning how
to stop and look, learning to see, unlike those in the car park on an
autumn evening, rushing to get home and failing to see the large fox
standing in the middle of the car park. We learn to take a few moments
to stop, look and see, the sky, the sunset, the urban fox, learning
how to live in the here and now, to create a little space in a busy
life. Next comes learning to relax, to practice breathing deep and
slow, to meditate.

There’s a quick introductory gallop through the seasons and the Wheel
of the Year. We touch on ethics, with a sensible discussion of
Crowley’s maxim ‘Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the law’, and
there’s a section on environmental awareness and living lightly on the
land. Finally we are pointed towards what it means to study through
the three grades Bard, Ovate and Druid.

This book is written by someone who really cares, really wants the
reader to have a more rewarding lifestyle. It’s only a small book, but
it really might change your life! ~ Polly Morris

Brendan’s book can be purchased here