The Magpie and the Wardrobe by by Sam McKechnie and Alexandrine Portelli isn’t just a book — it’s an experience. It’s one of the most imaginatively designed books I’ve ever had the joy of flipping through. Every page feels like a treasure trove of magical curiosities, layered with spells, folklore, traditions, and whimsical illustrations that make you want to dive straight in and get lost in its pages. It feels like opening up an old trunk filled with forgotten enchantments, stories, and seasonal rituals that are as charming as they are meaningful.
This isn’t your typical witchcraft book. It’s playful, quirky, and deeply rooted in folk magic and seasonal celebrations, blending old traditions with modern interpretations. It weaves together the kind of magic that feels connected to the everyday — to the land, the changing seasons, and the objects around us. There’s something about this book that makes magic feel tangible and practical, yet utterly enchanting.
A Visual and Creative Delight
I’ve read a lot of books on folklore and magic, but The Magpie and the Wardrobe stands out because of its incredible design and creativity. This isn’t a book that just sits on your shelf — it calls to be picked up, explored, and admired.
The pages are filled with beautiful illustrations, vintage-style collages, and handwritten-style notes that make it feel like you’re flipping through a witch’s personal scrapbook or grimoire. It has that tactile, old-world charm that feels both comforting and inspiring.
It’s clear that every element of this book has been thoughtfully crafted. It’s not just the words that hold magic — the entire book is a spell in itself. There’s something magical about the way it’s been put together, with layers of meaning in both the content and the visuals.
Folk Traditions and Everyday Magic
What I love most about this book is how it highlights everyday magic through folklore and seasonal rituals. It feels deeply rooted in nature and tradition, bringing to life old customs that connect us to the cycles of the year.
The book invites you to celebrate seasonal festivals and simple charms, encouraging you to bring a little magic into your daily life. From charm-making to seasonal crafts, there’s something playful and whimsical about the way magic is presented — it reminds you that witchcraft doesn’t have to be serious and solemn. It can be joyful, creative, and beautifully personal.
Whether it’s folklore surrounding animals, plants, or old-fashioned superstitions, The Magpie and the Wardrobe breathes life into traditions that might otherwise be forgotten. It’s a gentle reminder that magic can be found in the ordinary moments — a sprig of rosemary for protection, a charm to hang on your door, or a seasonal celebration to honour the land.
Final Thoughts
The Magpie and the Wardrobe is a must-have for any witch’s library. It’s a book that you’ll want to come back to throughout the year, finding new inspiration with every season.
It’s not just a book of spells and rituals — it’s a book of magic, storytelling, and creativity. It invites you to approach your craft with a sense of wonder and playfulness, reminding you that magic is everywhere if you know where to look.
Honestly, it’s one of the most beautiful and imaginatively designed books I’ve ever read. Whether you’re flipping through it for inspiration or diving into a specific ritual, it feels like an old friend that always has something new to show you.
If you’re a lover of folklore, storytelling, and seasonal magic, this book will feel like a treasured companion on your witchcraft journey.
