Apple Branch Press

Sometimes a book comes along and leaves you with as many questions as answers.  And a new desire to search out the answers to those new questions!

From the Branch is just that sort of text.  With a heavy emphasis on  personal journey, self-discovery, and individual gnosis, this is not a book for a person looking to have the answers provided in one tidy package.  The author challenges the reader to engage in a vigorous course of study, meditation, and self-analysis. 

The author, Deanne Quarrie, is a seasoned High Priestess.  One of only nine women ordained by Z Budapest in Feminist Dianic Craft, Deanne has led global ministries as well as worked within local circles.  A festival organizer, volunteer, workshop presenter, and ritual leader, there can be no argument that Deanne has both academic knowledge and Pagan "street cred."  The Apple Branch is the tradition she has founded.  It incorporates elements not only of Dianic witchcraft, but also Faerie, Eastern philosophy, shamanic pathworking, and ecstatic discovery.
The practicality inherent to the book is a testament to someone accustomed to having had to sometimes "make do" and helping others do so as well. 

There are many useful and very well laid out charts and tables for correspondances, colors, herbs, and goddesses.  These charts are so well done that they would prove invaluable for anyone.   Suggestions for creating your own spells and rituals are provided in place of off-the-shelf varieties.  At each step, women are encouraged to develop their own relationships and discover their own connections.  The author writes:

"I encourage you to experiment.  You will find all kinds of information of how to do this, and some will tell you, "this is the correct way."  Please keep in mind that there are as many ways as there are women casting Circles.  Each way is unique and perfect.  Know what you want within your sacred space and then create it!  Play.  Allow your inner child to explore. Find new ways to mark your Circle's edge. Investigate methods of clearing negativity and sacred ways to honor the divine.  Search your heart. You have all the answers." (page 39, From the Branch)

 A comprehensive method of learning the Ogham will further make From the Branch a must-have.  Broken-down into individual sections, the method involves relating many different ideas and elements with each part of the Ogham.  From the Branch should be on your shelf for this reason if no other. The Ogham has a reputation as one of the hardest magical alphabets to master.  This book is one of the best I have seen for learning (and teaching) this system. 

From the Branch is as much for absolute beginners as for those who have been practicing for decades.  Although Dianic in tone and presentation, women of any path will find that this book speaks to a place of  love, discovery, and joy that are common to us all.  Reading as part teaching text, part biography, and part personal letter to the reader, From the Branch is engaging, affirming, and empowering. 

My own impression was of sitting with the author, asking her why we are here and where we are going.  Leaning over close, she whispers, "Here, have some flowers.  Now, let's dance."

Reviewed by Sapphire, a formal practitioner since 1986 in both traditional and ecstatic witchcraft.  Sapphire is High Priestess of  The Order of Avalon, Co-director of The Great Lakes Regional Open Circle, Co-chair of HLC Witches, and an unashamed user of Fatboy Slim  music in ritual.

Dearest Bendis,

I have in my hands the beautiful book "From the Branch". It took very little time to get to me!

I put the box aside for a couple of hours as I knew I didn't have time to explore it in depth. The book called to me and I succumbed to its pull. Now on the nicest day this year, on one of the busiest weekends I am huddled in my room away from my many tasks.

What I want to thank you for, before I really sit down and read the book, is the consideration you have for some of us with less than good eyesight. The book will be a pleasure to read because of the larger print. CUDOS!!!!!

I am also looking forward to the second book, the Ogham and Trees. I had always put that aside. How appropriate that on today I see the promise of budding trees and as the leaves begin their new life I will look at them through new eyes. OK, no pun intended.

Will write more when I have time to do more than hold and hug "From the Branch".

In Her light
Diane/DancingStar
Connecticut

The mail just brought my book, and it is lovely! Everything about it is wonderful, the color of the cover, poplar leaves. It is a unique book.  I haven’t seen anything quite like it.  It will be so handy to have as a reference rather than go online, look through files or select chapters from other books. It has everything I need in one.

This is such a wonderful book Deanne! A real labor of love! Thank you so much for giving this to us. It was also nice to see a mention to all of us in the book, makes it more special.

Love,
Carmen

Deanne,

I've been ambitiously checking the mailbox daily waiting for it and today, the box was stuffed with three green books in their big brown box !!! Deanne, when I opened it and began reading, your writing style is so personal that I could hear your voice. Now that's magic ! My eyes welled up with tears of joy because I know how long you worked on this, how much of yourself went into it, and how hard you worked to manifest your dream. I am so happy for you! You are inspiring.

About the book: I love everything about the book, the form, the big size pages and big type (can read it without my glasses!) and of course the content! I've just started, but can see already that it is just as if you are sitting next to the reader talking to her. Sylvie and Eléonore are going to love it too, and what a perfect complement to their studies. As soon as they have their copies, we are going to begin working through the book topic by topic. Thank you so much !!!

big hug, Leigh