The Book “Drawing Down he Moon” by Margot Adler

[Zwing]

Is Drawing Down the Moon” by Margot Adler the best overall introduction to modern Paganism, Neo-Paganism, and Pagan reconstructionist movements? It has been recommended to me as such, and I would like some thoughts on it. The title suggests that it might be skewed towards presenting material about Wicca; is the book balanced despite this? Is the book, originally published in 1979, up to date with the main currents of Pagan faiths? Thank you in advance!

 

[Callisto]

For many years DDTM was the recommended book for an introduction to Neopaganism. At the time, it was the only one. It's still a recommended read but there are other titles now too.

There is a great deal of references to Wicca mainly because Wicca has had the most influence on modern pagan practices than any other religion. Even so, the book is even-handed in its overview of the Neopagan movement. Early editions may seem outdated as the movement has grown in the past few decades (it first came out in 1979). There have been recent editions but I don't know how accurate they are and they have other's input as Margot died several years ago.

But yes, she was a reputable source. She was a Trad Wiccan initiate and well-regarded in the Pagan community. Sidenote, she was also an NPR reporter.

As to other books that are often now recommended along with DDTM, some are The Path of Paganism by John Beckett, A Million And One Gods by Page DuBois, and A World Full of Gods: An Inquiry Into Polytheism by John Michael Greer.

 

[JustGeorge]

I read/own one of the older editions. It was a bit dated, and while it perhaps has a large focus on Wicca, I think its a worthwhile read either way. There was enough information in there to find something of value.

 

[Zwing]

Okay, I think that I’ll buy the used copy that I’ve found of a newer edition. I just wanted a few opinions on the book before jumping.

 

[Quintessence]

I'd agree that it's a bit dated, but it can be worth exploring some of the "classical" works that were influential during the rise of contemporary Paganism to understand the roots of the movement and its early trajectory. When it comes to building your own modern tradition they may be somewhat less helpful. I will second all of @Callisto 's recommendations - each is probably a better place to start than Adler's work these days. DuBois is probably a bit dense to start with though, so beginning with Beckett or Greer is a better call.