Book Review – The Witch’s Name: Crafting Identities of Magical Power
I recently read “The Witch’s Name: Crafting Identities of Magical Power” by Storm Faerywolf and I honestly don’t know what I was expecting with this book but I was excited nonetheless. I also invited the author, Storm Faerywolf who himself uses a magical name, onto the Witch Talks Podcast so stay tuned for that future episode!
Here's what the publisher has to say about this book.
“The magical name is one of the most powerful tools in Witchcraft. Each time you use it, a spell is cast that empowers and protects you while also helping you transform into the Witch you've always wanted to be. Not just another book of monikers, this thoughtful resource will help you understand the history and mythology of spiritual names according to various cultures. Explore your strengths and reveal deeper layers of your true self with meditations, rituals, journaling, and other practical exercises. With inspiring ideas for how animals, plants, astrology, and tarot can help you form your magical persona, Storm Faerywolf provides clear steps for choosing and claiming the right name. You'll also enjoy wise words from well-known contributors like Mat Auryn, Phoenix LeFae, Gwion Raven, and Laura Tempest Zakroff. You are a unique, magical being. Your Witch name should reflect that.”
What I liked
This book is split into three parts which are
Part 1: What’s in a name?
Part 2: Inspiration, Seeds and Sources
Part 3: The Choosing and the Weaving
My favourite was Part 1: What’s in a name?
Storm takes you one a journey through history, culture and language and it was fascinating. I particularly loved hearing about Storms own naming journey and the personal stories interspersed throughout.
On page 26 of chapter one there is a section on “Speak of the devil (and he doth appear)” and how names can be used as taglock with specific examples throughout history which tickled my fancy in particular.
On page 73 there is an exercise called ‘Elemental Balancing’ on transforming negativity with water and alchemy and oh my did it inspire me! I was also surprised at the inclusion of exercises throughout the book as Storm moves you through the necessary steps to finding your own magical name.
Under Rites of Appellation on page 209, Storm mentions using the letters within your name as forms of protection, almost like a sigil when signing your name on things and WOW this was mind-blowing and something I will be taking on. It’s one of those things you read, face palm and say “now why didn’t I think of that?”
What I disliked
Whilst Part 2 includes a varied list of names and their meanings I think I wanted more, maybe suggestions on name pairings or details around the numerology of each suggestion. I also wanted more personal stories, anecdotes, and examples. Basically, seeing it in action!
Since I also don’t plan on changing my current name, once I got past the excitement of the first part (history and knowledge around words and names) and it got to the ‘choosing’ part my interest started to dwindle but that’s not a fair criticism of the book itself, rather me as a reader. I guess the advice here is to read it IF and WHEN you’re ready for a magickal name.
Do I recommend it?
Yes I do as long as you are planning to change your name. This would also be helpful for those seeking a business name, and hell I was even considering some of the suggestions as future baby or pet names! Overall I give this little book a 3 out of 5 witches hats and I can’t wait to chat further with Storm Faerywolf on the Witch Talks Podcast.
My witches’ hats rating system:
0 - Problematic, this book should be burned.
1 - Did not like this book, do not read
2 - It was ok, wouldn’t recommend it though.
3 - I liked it but it might not be for everyone
4 - I really liked it and think most people will like it
5 - AMAZING, I loved it and everyone should read it
Meet Hana
Hana O’Neill, the Suburban Witch is a professional Tarot & Astrology reader, Intuitive Coach and the host of the Witch Talks podcast.
