Shadow's Pride - Authors - Roland Stanzione & Gabriella Gafni - Book Reviews

Shadow's Pride is the story of a horse, Areion, and his interaction with humans, namely his owner, the co-author, Roland Stanzione. The unique aspect of this book is that it is half written by Areion. Yes, if Mr. Ed could talk to Wilbur, whenever he had something to say that is, then it makes sense Areion could write beautifully. The book interlaces his narratives throughout by alternating chapters, in a first person, one by Roland and one by Areion, as seen through the eyes of a horse. This aspect of the book took me by surprise, however allowing for the utmost of creative license I indulged in accepting this premise. After awhile, I was learning the message of the book, one of revealing the dark side of the equestrian business, and the strength, courage and love between a horse and owner.

The acumen of knowledge amassed by Roland Stanzione is extraordinary, and his writing, along with Gabriella Gafni, is laced with footnotes to help explain the history of man's relationship with horses throughout the ages. I found the foundation of the symbiotic relationship between man and horse to be most artfully articulated and clearly being spoken from a lover of animals of all types. It is the power and grace of such a large beast that makes horses different. One that allows the will of the rider to overshadow the will of the animal, as it gives trust, love and respect often to people that don't return the emotions. Unless a horse is fast or breed for service, the amount of neglect and malice present in some aspects of the equestrian industry would be clearly illegal, if the animal was human rather than a horse.

In the short time in which Areion's life overlapped, a bond developed that is quite rare. It may not be the only bond of such between a human and a horse, but Shadow's Pride talks about the feelings through the eyes of the Areion and Roland in a romantic way. Shadow's Pride, based on the true story of Areion, as written by Roland Stanzione and Gabriella Gafini, is a metaphor of love, respect and a commemorative work bringing meaning and hope to all those touched by the equine spirit.

This magnificent memoir is a touching story about Roland Stanzione's love of Areion. He transcends his affection as being a long time activist for animal rights. He learns the lesson of unconditional and devoted love from an abused horse that he rescued. He provides amazing insight into people and horses alike. Shadow's Pride reminds me of a "Marley & Me" story but about a horse. Some parts will make you laugh, others will make you cry and feel bad for what they had to go through during their lives. This is a must read for anyone who knows the riches of the love of animals, and understands complete and unconditional love.

Barbara C. Miller is a book reviewer for Pacific Book Review. Please visit http://www.pacificbookreview.com for more information.

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Book of Spells, Book of Shadows and Grimoires

What is a book of spells? In most peoples mind it is a magician, sorcerer or witches spell book. This is somewhat true, but only in recent history, as it is a much newer concept than one would believe. This type of book only really began to become common in the twentieth century as newer types of Paganism began to emerge.

In ancient times and up until the Middle Ages practitioners of the magic arts were almost all illiterate as was the majority of the population. You cannot really make a book of spells if you are unable to write. When the world, and Europe in particular, began to learn to put pen to paper this still did not result in witches suddenly deciding to make books to hand down to their descendants.

Why? Because the magical arts were extremely secretive as they had largely been driven underground due to persecution. The Inquisition is most commonly associated with such behavior. It was not until the twentieth century that Pagan religions began to feel safe again and books of spells began to emerge. The introduction of Wicca witchcraft in the middle of the twentieth century is often attributed with beginning this practice.

Wicca does not call their book of spells by that name though. They use the term Book of Shadows and within it they write spells and other things learned throughout their lives. Traditional witches on the other hand do not all observe the same practice. Some do write down spells and other things important to them but they call their book of spells a Grimoire and its contents are secret.

Witchcraft has evolved considerably over the centuries, even the more traditional art or way of life, and it is likely to evolve even further during the centuries or decades to come. You are invited to discover more about Traditional Witchcraft Literature at Is Witchcraft Real.

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