Overview: Druidry is currently exciting much interest but has an image that is not usually associated with urban life. In The Handbook of Urban Druidry, author Brendan Howlin presents Druidry in an easy-to-understand way, making the concepts open to everyone.

Verdict: In what is a very well written and highly impassioned new book, and one that challenges the perception of Druidry being secretive and serious with equal measures, author Brendan Howlin brings forth a humorously engaging prose on the philosophies of Druidry for a broad audience.

Druids were concerned with the natural world and its powers, and considered trees sacred, particularly the oak. Druidism can be described as a shamanic religion, as it relied on a combination of contact with the spirit world and holistic medicines to treat (and sometimes cause) illnesses.

Here in The Handbook of Urban Druidry: Modern Druidry for all, Brendan not only gives practical and inspiring insights into practicing Druidry in an urban environment, but at the same time reminds us all that Druids and their believes are present in towns and cities; but the book definitely is more angled towards the city-dwellers, of course.

Opening in a way that develops our perception of Druids, gently nudging us into realizing that we are, most likely, not really seeing what is around us. Indeed, that if we open our eyes and other senses, he proffers that we can see that even the most urban of environments literally teems with life of all entities.

Down to earth advice for the urban dweller who wants to live a more spiritual life attuned to nature, the author provides a simple program in a warm and conversational tone, sure, but threaded throughout is information, guidance and knowledge for everyone interested in becoming more attuned to themselves, communities and the environment.

In closing, if you’re struggling with the modern, urban, hectic lifestyle, craving something else and really not sure where to start, this could well be the perfect book for you. It’s accessible, very straightforward and opens a door to a totally different way of thinking about life.

Philosophically speaking, there’s some great stuff going on here in a way that is easy to absorb and apply to your own experiences.

The author’s fun and conversational writing style lends itself well to the subject matter; he poses the problems with modern urban living with a sympathetic tone. In proposing solutions, Brendan doesn’t pretend that the techniques he shares will be quick or easy. Instead, he reveals how this system, when used thoughtfully, will ultimately help the reader live a healthier and happier life.

About the Author - Brendan Howlin is a Druid grade member of the order of Bards, Ovates and Druids (OBOD). He has been Senior International Tutor for Bards and Ovates for 13 years, and Science Correspondent for Touchstone, the journal of OBOD for 13 years. He is also co-founder of Surrey Druid Grove. He lives in Guildford, UK.

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