Review: Magic from the Hilltops & Hollers by Leah Middleton
This book spoke to me almost immediately. My family is from Southern Ohio and West Virginia. I love folk lore, superstitions and healing from nature. When reading the foreword the reader could start to feel the love that multiple writers have for this subject and how multiple people incorporate the idea both abstract and actual into their practices.
From the start of the book the imagery the writer uses starts to paint an exquisite picture that transports the reader to the location described. It also helps orient the reader to the area and can give way to locating the actual area on google map images if desired. The writer settles herself from the start that she is part of Appalachia and Appalachia is part of her. I drew into the introduction because I use several terms and ideas that were written. The concept of community is strong in laying the foundation of this book and community is a large part of Appalachian culture. I truly adore sharing food, taking care of individuals without being asked and coming together during times of need.
Strong imagery is present throughout the entire book and transports the reader to see through the writer’s eyes. Also incorporated are tid bits of where different components from Appalachian culture like language, beliefs and where things associated with Appalachia originated.
Each area of Appalachia has its own terrain, plants and lore. The addition of little pictures throughout the text create a cohesiveness even though the subjects are varying. Some of the points discussed in the book are used by a multitude of people. The farmer’s almanac, family recipes (some of the ones shown I am definitely going to try), quilting/needle work and using/updating lore based on the area you are researching.
This book is truly a gem and I will be reading it repeatedly. Leah Middleton the Redheaded Witch did an excellent job on compiling this book and adding in text that ties her to the area she lovingly documented.
