Spinning Wyrd

Spinning Wyrd carefully and consciously helps readers deepen their practice amid challenging times. With the premise of Radical Heathenry, this inclusive book widens the view of Norse Paganism by looking at the often hard-to-grasp Wyrd, amongst other significant concepts. Informed by extensive research, well-developed modern practices, and a commitment to social justice, this book prepares readers for whatever is fated to happen next. --Irisanya Moon, author of Pagan Portals: The Norns: Weavers of Fate & Magick This book is a journey of exploration through the cosmos as seen with Norse pagan eyes. Ryan Smith invites the reader to encounter the living forces and beings that move through and animate all the nine worlds and to seek wisdom and relationship with each. But perhaps this book's most powerful offering is its insightful framework for understanding our own souls and our interactions with the forces that shape our fates. It's a compass that Norse-centered animists, polytheists, and pagans can turn to for guidance along the path. --Morpheus Ravenna, author and artist Spinning Wyrd is the perfect follow up to The Way of Fire & Ice, taking readers further into the ideas of radical Heathenry in ways that are both thought provoking and practical. Those seeking a Heathenry that is open and diverse, strongly rooted in history but meant for today, and which seeks to connect practitioners not only to Gods but also to the many powers around us--understood through animism--will appreciate the way this book balances so many potentially conflicting things to form a cohesive whole. I loved the way Smith tackles potentially difficult topics like ecstatic practice with ease, explaining both why engaging with the more esoteric side of Heathenry is important and providing a guide for anyone to do so. --Morgan Daimler, author of Pantheon: The Norse and Pagan Portals Odin As the leading voice for inclusive Heathenry, Smith presents an essential work exploring the cosmology and mysteries that lay at the heart of contemporary Heathen practice. Thorough yet approachable, Spinning Wyrd provides a solid framework for the new or practicing Heathen to uncover profound meaning and spiritual growth within their practice. --Althaea Sebastiani, author of Paganism for Beginners [Smith's] is a tradition in which consent and respect for human and other-than-human people are rightfully emphasized on both mundane and magical levels. More importantly, though, Spinning Wyrd reminds us of our place within that ever-changing Web [of Wyrd], our responsibilities to our fellow people within it, and the power we hold to weave wisely for a better future. A perfect read for those looking to learn more about Fire and Ice Heathenry and its unique, socially/Wyrd-conscious approach to magic! --Cat Heath, author of Elves, Witches & Gods