Pre-Reading Thoughts
I've always been fascinated by folklore and seasonal traditions, so this immediately caught my attention. I was especially interested to see how Ukrainian spiritual practices are woven through the wheel of the year, and I was curious how much would be practical inspiration versus historical and cultural exploration.
Post-Reading
As I thought...
This is a book written with genuine affection for its subject. Tania's enthusiasm shines through every chapter, making centuries-old traditions feel welcoming and accessible rather than distant or academic. Structuring the book around the wheel of the year works beautifully, letting each season unfold naturally with its own customs, celebrations, rituals, and symbolism.
I also loved how practical it is. Alongside the history and folklore are recipes, ceremonies, herbal traditions, songs, and divination practices that invite you to engage with the material rather than simply read about it. I'm definitely looking forward to trying some of the recipes.
It surprised me by...
What surprised me most was how approachable everything felt. Even if you're unfamiliar with Ukrainian traditions, the book gently guides you through them without assuming prior knowledge. Rather than feeling like a collection of disconnected folklore, it builds a picture of a living tradition that remains deeply connected to the changing seasons and the natural world.
One unexpected bonus is that I own Tania's Ukrainian Tarot deck. While I admired its artwork before, I didn't always understand the symbolism behind every card. Reading this has given me far more context, and I'm looking forward to revisiting the deck alongside the book to gain an even deeper appreciation of both.
Vibe Check
🍂 Colour Palette: Wheat gold, embroidered crimson, cornflower blue, forest green, candlelit amber.
🌿 Season: The full turning of the year - from spring blossoms through harvest fields to snowy winter celebrations.
🏡 Mood: Cosy, reflective, rooted, and quietly magical.
🌾 Scent: Fresh baked bread, wild herbs, beeswax candles, pine needles, and woodsmoke.
Would I Recommend It?
Absolutely, especially if you enjoy folklore, seasonal living, mythology, or learning about spiritual traditions from around the world. It's informative without feeling dry and practical without losing sight of the rich cultural heritage behind each tradition. Whether you're interested in Ukrainian culture specifically or simply enjoy books that celebrate humanity's connection with the seasons, there's plenty here to discover.
For Fans Of
📚 The Green Witch by Arin Murphy-Hiscock
📺 The Green Planet (BBC)
Ukrainian Spiritual Traditions publishes on the 28th July, 2026. I received a free copy and am giving an honest review.
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