This is a solid introduction on creating and using an altar. As the title suggests, the book is geared towards witches and Wiccans, but others could probably get a lot out of it (I did!). The authors usually chose to write individually, rather than with a shared authorial voice, and the chapters definitely show their different perspectives. And as with other books in this series, there are short contributions from other writers. The book starts with a general discussion of altars, and their history. It then moves into the creation of altars, how to use them, and a discussion of different types (daily, seasonal, devotional, etc.). There's also a chapter on the creation and use of pentacles.

Reading this book gave me some helpful ideas for using my altar. Some were basic and practical, from putting water in a sealed bottle to minimize spills (somehow that hadn't occurred to me) to reminding me that I could compost spent offerings. Others were more inspirational: I'm pondering a few new ideas on how to actually use my altar. I'd read two of Mankey's earlier books; this is the first by Zakroff I've read, but both write in an engaging style, and I enjoyed reading the book, even the parts I can't see myself ever using. (Hey, this is the most information in one place I've ever seen on pentacles!) Recommended for readers interested in working with Pagan altars. ( )