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Pagan Portals - Persephone: Practicing the Art of Personal Power
Embark upon a powerful journey with Persephone, Queen of the Underworld and Goddess of Spring, as she helps you to discover your personal power and take control of your life. 'There is something for everyone in this book, which will be of interest to long-standing devotees of Persephone as well as those feeling newly-called to work with this powerful Goddess who helps us to walk a path of empowerment.' Jhenah Telyndru, founder of the Sisterhood of Avalon and author of Rhiannon: Great Queen of the Celtic Britons
112 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2020
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242 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
April 7, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley and John Hunt Publishing Ltd for an e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
This was a different direction for me in my reading experience as it was a very spiritual experience that incorporates the story of Persephone and gives it a more matriarchal perspective that the modern woman can connect with in examining darkness and light. There are prompts to encourage bullet journaling and meditation as well as connecting to the natural world around us.
I felt that this slim volume was informative, well laid out and was accompanied with a very positive message.
ŷ review published 07/04/20
Expected publication 24/04/20
This was a different direction for me in my reading experience as it was a very spiritual experience that incorporates the story of Persephone and gives it a more matriarchal perspective that the modern woman can connect with in examining darkness and light. There are prompts to encourage bullet journaling and meditation as well as connecting to the natural world around us.
I felt that this slim volume was informative, well laid out and was accompanied with a very positive message.
ŷ review published 07/04/20
Expected publication 24/04/20
April 6, 2020
This is a well research guide for those wanting to dive more deeply into the myth of Persephone. Includes guided meditations, journaling prompts and some rituals for both summer and winter celebrating both the dark and the light aspects of the Goddess. Also included is the opportunity to connect through food with recipes - none of which are vegan. This is the perfect small book for those interested in individual Goddess worship.
*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC
*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC
November 2, 2020
I have reviewed several titles in the Pagan Portals series and am impressed at the quality of writings and the in depth approach taken by the authors to whatever the subject matter may be. Persephone: Practicing the Art of Personal Power by Robin Corak fulfills all of those statements with a bit more. As I write this the world is grasped in the fear and uncertainty of the COVID-19 virus. Many are feeling less than empowered and the transitions of dark and light creep in ever closer to a blending of cautious action and impatience that we have not progressed further.
With that being said, the timing of this book; one that takes the reader into the journey of claiming personal power couldn’t have been better played. We are treated to eight (8) chapters exploring the role of Persephone in many of her known guises as well as those less considered.
Robin Corak has crafted an exploration that includes myth, research and opportunity to employ techniques and ritual to foster within the reader a deeper understanding of this resilient and power goddess; and always keeping the goal as one of encouraging a similar path of Divine power for yourself. Additionally, journaling and the prompts that require a more reflective approach, tease out the bits of wisdom that already are seeding within as you find the points of resonance between Persephone and yourself.
Chapter 1: From Helpless Child to Powerful Woman sets the tone of what can be expected in this and future chapters. The title itself gives hope and the common space from which we all begin our “heroic� journey as the child who becomes the pawn in a much larger game play and what must be called into play to become the ultimate writer of how that story plays out. Robin takes us through the more traditional tales of Persephone and her abduction by Hades and the roles of the other gods/desses in what appears on first glance to be one of betrayal and submission. The thorough research and comparison of the many other versions of the myth, provide a basis for the reader to see perhaps another perspective of the tale; now Persephone being in charge of her destiny and not the victim. Much to think upon? A powerful conclusion to this chapter is offered in the form of a retelling of the myth- “Perspenone’s Story-Reclaimed�, noted as written from the perspective of the goddess and with a theme of empowerment.
The book continues with this beautifully interwoven underpinning of what we have heard as the myth and what we actually can learn when we are receptive to another intention. Chapter 2: The Eleusinian Mysteries provides insight into the background of this myth and as these are “mysteries� the hidden meanings and nuances. Chapter 3: Descent and Ascent gives the archetypal overlays of this and many of the myths. These considerations are brought forth in the citing of Joseph Campbell and in in so doing also bring the psycho-analytical nature of the work of empowerment into the forefront.
…By delving into (these) goddesses and their myths, we can begin to see patterns that may reflect our own lives and thus can help us predict future paths and pitfalls� This requires complete self-honesty and an in depth exploration of our own woundedness and the inner demons that haunt us�
Chapter 4: Persephone as Psychopomp and Chapter 5: Persephone and the Art of Discernment introduce us to Persephone as psychopomp and one of discernment in our own ascent from the underworld. Death and the crossing over into the realm of death require a masterful hand of calm, yet firm direction. Discernment requires the knowing of when and how to resurrect what has fallen to its death and how to bring that arising to a new space of power and transformation. These chapters weave the necessary mind set to embrace these tasks and undertake your own ushering through the shadow and rising into the light.
Chapter 6: Rituals for Persephone, Chapter 7: Forging the Path and Chapter 8: Persephone’s Feast fully engage the reader as having claimed the crown of personal power and provides all of the tools necessary to establish a regular and deep connection to Persephone and her power. A ritual for each half (dark and light) of the year and guided meditation of claiming the crown provide the ecstatic component. Epithets, correspondences and more provide pathways to access the archetypal energy of Persephone and recipes and food recommendations complete a full and informed journey mindful of the Greek pantheon and its specifics as well as those of this particular deity and her story.
Of note in the Conclusion is this statement, which sums up nicely the gifts to be gained by doing the work of self�.
�.If Persephone teaches us anything, it is that we must be willing to delve into our own inner Underworld in order to be liberated and find joy in the Spring of our rebirth. There is strength in vulnerability and there are vast treasures waiting to be found in the darkness…You too have the ability to let go of the fears that have held you back and sever ties with the things that no longer serve you�.
Would I recommend?
I am always encouraging of any work that creates a template that is not simply transformative, but is actually rooted in work achieved and authenticity in its application. Persephone: Practicing the Art of Personal Power by Robin Corak stirs the desire to know more and in so doing provides the valuable lesson that all myths, gods/desses have so much more to offer in the telling of their stories if we are receptive and embrace all aspects of our being. The exercises, readings and citings are filled with seeds of Spring’s awakening and much like the Goddess herself, we are reminded that no journey is charmed; that hard work, tending and reaching into the underworld is necessary to allow for rebirth. If you are ready for that journey, than this is the book for you.
Reviewed by Robin Fennelly of PaganPages.Org
With that being said, the timing of this book; one that takes the reader into the journey of claiming personal power couldn’t have been better played. We are treated to eight (8) chapters exploring the role of Persephone in many of her known guises as well as those less considered.
Robin Corak has crafted an exploration that includes myth, research and opportunity to employ techniques and ritual to foster within the reader a deeper understanding of this resilient and power goddess; and always keeping the goal as one of encouraging a similar path of Divine power for yourself. Additionally, journaling and the prompts that require a more reflective approach, tease out the bits of wisdom that already are seeding within as you find the points of resonance between Persephone and yourself.
Chapter 1: From Helpless Child to Powerful Woman sets the tone of what can be expected in this and future chapters. The title itself gives hope and the common space from which we all begin our “heroic� journey as the child who becomes the pawn in a much larger game play and what must be called into play to become the ultimate writer of how that story plays out. Robin takes us through the more traditional tales of Persephone and her abduction by Hades and the roles of the other gods/desses in what appears on first glance to be one of betrayal and submission. The thorough research and comparison of the many other versions of the myth, provide a basis for the reader to see perhaps another perspective of the tale; now Persephone being in charge of her destiny and not the victim. Much to think upon? A powerful conclusion to this chapter is offered in the form of a retelling of the myth- “Perspenone’s Story-Reclaimed�, noted as written from the perspective of the goddess and with a theme of empowerment.
The book continues with this beautifully interwoven underpinning of what we have heard as the myth and what we actually can learn when we are receptive to another intention. Chapter 2: The Eleusinian Mysteries provides insight into the background of this myth and as these are “mysteries� the hidden meanings and nuances. Chapter 3: Descent and Ascent gives the archetypal overlays of this and many of the myths. These considerations are brought forth in the citing of Joseph Campbell and in in so doing also bring the psycho-analytical nature of the work of empowerment into the forefront.
…By delving into (these) goddesses and their myths, we can begin to see patterns that may reflect our own lives and thus can help us predict future paths and pitfalls� This requires complete self-honesty and an in depth exploration of our own woundedness and the inner demons that haunt us�
Chapter 4: Persephone as Psychopomp and Chapter 5: Persephone and the Art of Discernment introduce us to Persephone as psychopomp and one of discernment in our own ascent from the underworld. Death and the crossing over into the realm of death require a masterful hand of calm, yet firm direction. Discernment requires the knowing of when and how to resurrect what has fallen to its death and how to bring that arising to a new space of power and transformation. These chapters weave the necessary mind set to embrace these tasks and undertake your own ushering through the shadow and rising into the light.
Chapter 6: Rituals for Persephone, Chapter 7: Forging the Path and Chapter 8: Persephone’s Feast fully engage the reader as having claimed the crown of personal power and provides all of the tools necessary to establish a regular and deep connection to Persephone and her power. A ritual for each half (dark and light) of the year and guided meditation of claiming the crown provide the ecstatic component. Epithets, correspondences and more provide pathways to access the archetypal energy of Persephone and recipes and food recommendations complete a full and informed journey mindful of the Greek pantheon and its specifics as well as those of this particular deity and her story.
Of note in the Conclusion is this statement, which sums up nicely the gifts to be gained by doing the work of self�.
�.If Persephone teaches us anything, it is that we must be willing to delve into our own inner Underworld in order to be liberated and find joy in the Spring of our rebirth. There is strength in vulnerability and there are vast treasures waiting to be found in the darkness…You too have the ability to let go of the fears that have held you back and sever ties with the things that no longer serve you�.
Would I recommend?
I am always encouraging of any work that creates a template that is not simply transformative, but is actually rooted in work achieved and authenticity in its application. Persephone: Practicing the Art of Personal Power by Robin Corak stirs the desire to know more and in so doing provides the valuable lesson that all myths, gods/desses have so much more to offer in the telling of their stories if we are receptive and embrace all aspects of our being. The exercises, readings and citings are filled with seeds of Spring’s awakening and much like the Goddess herself, we are reminded that no journey is charmed; that hard work, tending and reaching into the underworld is necessary to allow for rebirth. If you are ready for that journey, than this is the book for you.
Reviewed by Robin Fennelly of PaganPages.Org
March 16, 2020
Persephone was a little bit of an intense read from my normal go to reads. I felt it was a little more sweeter then it should have been. I loved the overall concept and where the author was going, but I really wish it went a little bit bitter then it did. Greek myth is a very powerful thing and most people do not understand just what it entitles and this book defiantly give a deeper look into it.
January 15, 2024
My Quick Review: ⭐⭐� (3/5) stars.
A good Persephone themed self-help book, touching on shadow work, Persephone's Mythos and with some interesting resources. I recommend it but not enthusiastically.
Personal Reason for Purchasing: I was familiar with several other Books in the Pagan Portals and bought this one hoping for a primer on Persephone's Mythology and modern pagan practice. (Bought from Amazon UK).
Overview of the book's contents.
Personal Thoughts and Review.
While I was hoping for an overview of Persephone's: myths, cults, correspondences etc, what this book is at its heart (imo) is a pagan self-help (maybe shadow-work) book using Persephone as inspiration and theming.
While a generally pleasant and quick read (around 95 pages of text) there are portions where sentiment is repeated and perhaps hammered home a little to hard, however for what this book is rather than what I wished it to be, Pagan Portals Persephone is an excellent example of how to learn from myth and grow from the lessons + experiences therein, and I do recommend it to those interested in Persephone from a Pagan perspective, but it probably shouldn't be your first book on the Goddess.
Books Content in detail.
The most interesting hot takes from the book.
- Triple Goddess Persephone: While a throw away comment in Chapter 4, the idea of Persephone embodying all Three aspects of the Triple Goddess (namely the Maiden, Mother, Crone archetypes) is interesting, and has inspired me to explore the idea further.
- Personal Myth Retelling (Mythic fanfic): It is definitely decisive to rewrite myth within pagan circles, but isn’t that what Humanity have done from the Dawn of time, and perhaps by personally retelling Persephone’s transition from Kore to Queen, we might learn which aspects of the Myth, Goddess and their role in our practice are most influential to us as individuals. (Obviously attempting to masquerade one’s personal retelling (myth fanfic essentially) as the one true version is mind numbing, but on a personal level it may be useful.)
Final Thoughts.
While not what I expected, Pagan Portals Persephone has taught me alot, and added to my personal practice, but I am glad I got the this book while equipped to recognise what the text is missing.
A good Persephone themed self-help book, touching on shadow work, Persephone's Mythos and with some interesting resources. I recommend it but not enthusiastically.
Personal Reason for Purchasing: I was familiar with several other Books in the Pagan Portals and bought this one hoping for a primer on Persephone's Mythology and modern pagan practice. (Bought from Amazon UK).
Overview of the book's contents.
Personal Thoughts and Review.
While I was hoping for an overview of Persephone's: myths, cults, correspondences etc, what this book is at its heart (imo) is a pagan self-help (maybe shadow-work) book using Persephone as inspiration and theming.
While a generally pleasant and quick read (around 95 pages of text) there are portions where sentiment is repeated and perhaps hammered home a little to hard, however for what this book is rather than what I wished it to be, Pagan Portals Persephone is an excellent example of how to learn from myth and grow from the lessons + experiences therein, and I do recommend it to those interested in Persephone from a Pagan perspective, but it probably shouldn't be your first book on the Goddess.
Books Content in detail.
The most interesting hot takes from the book.
- Triple Goddess Persephone: While a throw away comment in Chapter 4, the idea of Persephone embodying all Three aspects of the Triple Goddess (namely the Maiden, Mother, Crone archetypes) is interesting, and has inspired me to explore the idea further.
- Personal Myth Retelling (Mythic fanfic): It is definitely decisive to rewrite myth within pagan circles, but isn’t that what Humanity have done from the Dawn of time, and perhaps by personally retelling Persephone’s transition from Kore to Queen, we might learn which aspects of the Myth, Goddess and their role in our practice are most influential to us as individuals. (Obviously attempting to masquerade one’s personal retelling (myth fanfic essentially) as the one true version is mind numbing, but on a personal level it may be useful.)
Final Thoughts.
While not what I expected, Pagan Portals Persephone has taught me alot, and added to my personal practice, but I am glad I got the this book while equipped to recognise what the text is missing.
November 8, 2020
I was not expecting finding a book about Persephone like this but I glad I did! I already have a special place in my heart for books from the Pagan Portals series since I think it's a fantastic series that can provide with accessible books regarding several different topics (and even Deities) but always from the POV of a practitioner/devotee/Priest. This book was no different. The book focuses a lot on a modern view of the Goddess Persephone (with lots of references to the work of Jean Shinoda Bolen which I personally dislike and hence the -1star in the review) and a modern interpretation of her Hymn. I love the fact that the author made sure there were abundant references to her sources and always cited everything, giving us also a lengthy Resource section in the end.
Each chapter has questions for us to contemplate and meditate about what was read in each chapter and also some meditations and rituals. There's a great Correspondence Chapter, recipes for oils and other devotional works and, what I particularly loved as a Kitchen Witch, a section on Food!
It's a good book for someone who wants some ideas and ways to connect with the Goddess Persephone though I will always advise to also add more historical sources to the mix (which the author kindly provides in her resources!).
Each chapter has questions for us to contemplate and meditate about what was read in each chapter and also some meditations and rituals. There's a great Correspondence Chapter, recipes for oils and other devotional works and, what I particularly loved as a Kitchen Witch, a section on Food!
It's a good book for someone who wants some ideas and ways to connect with the Goddess Persephone though I will always advise to also add more historical sources to the mix (which the author kindly provides in her resources!).
June 2, 2020
A powerful tool to reclaim control, sovereignty and independence in our lives. The myth of Persephone sparks a light in every person who has felt controlled and bullied, and the author offers a complete image of how She and Her stories can help in today's world. I liked how simple and straight-forward it is!
April 25, 2021
Brief, but good, and with plenty of exercises and work to do, this book is a very good primer to working with Persephone and working through trauma.
March 3, 2020
'Persephone: Practicing the Art of Personal Power' is a book that explains the myth of this often misunderstood goddess and how the story can live inside of us, causing us to act out the themes, lessons, and triumphs of her journey.
Persephone is a goddess of spring and queen of the underworld. Her story is one of empowerment, sovereignty, and discernment. Persephone ultimately chooses to stay in the underworld helping lost souls navigate their darkness, while at the same time, allowing her to find her personal power. She chooses to spend time in the underworld with Hades who she grows to love despite her Mother’s grief. The story of Persephone offers us the chance to explore our shadowy realms where we have the chance to awaken our own personal power. This can only happen through independence and transformation. When passion calls, it’s important to heed the call and begin the merging of the conscious and subconscious. It will require vulnerability and courage but rebirth can only happen when we begin to embrace who we are. Hades and the underworld serve as metaphors for the deep descent into oneself, into one’s soul where transformation can occur, where the release of fears and unwillingness can happen...and only then can new growth sprout (which speaks to the agricultural themes of Persephone).
I relate very strongly to Persephone and loved the author’s own personal journey with this goddess. At the end of each chapter journal prompts were included and some guided meditations and rituals were also included as additional exercises.
I absolutely loved this book and I believe working with Persephone and her mythos can offer many rewards, but most importantly, autonomy and greater self-awareness.
Persephone is a goddess of spring and queen of the underworld. Her story is one of empowerment, sovereignty, and discernment. Persephone ultimately chooses to stay in the underworld helping lost souls navigate their darkness, while at the same time, allowing her to find her personal power. She chooses to spend time in the underworld with Hades who she grows to love despite her Mother’s grief. The story of Persephone offers us the chance to explore our shadowy realms where we have the chance to awaken our own personal power. This can only happen through independence and transformation. When passion calls, it’s important to heed the call and begin the merging of the conscious and subconscious. It will require vulnerability and courage but rebirth can only happen when we begin to embrace who we are. Hades and the underworld serve as metaphors for the deep descent into oneself, into one’s soul where transformation can occur, where the release of fears and unwillingness can happen...and only then can new growth sprout (which speaks to the agricultural themes of Persephone).
I relate very strongly to Persephone and loved the author’s own personal journey with this goddess. At the end of each chapter journal prompts were included and some guided meditations and rituals were also included as additional exercises.
I absolutely loved this book and I believe working with Persephone and her mythos can offer many rewards, but most importantly, autonomy and greater self-awareness.
April 26, 2020
My thanks to John Hunt Publishing/Moon Books for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘Pagan Portals - Persephone� by Robin Corak in exchange for an honest review.
In this short book Robin Corak provides an introduction to the Greek Goddess Persephone, including variations on the myth and the importance of the Rites of Eleusis and the Underworld journey.
It is subtitled ‘Practicing the Art of Personal Power� and includes a number of guided meditations, rituals, and journal prompts focusing on developing a relationship with Persephone.
There are also recipes for incense, bath teas, and anointing oils. She includes how to create a personal divination system named Persephone’s Seeds of Wisdom. Another chapter contains suggestions for creating a feast in Persephone’s honour; as might be expected there are pomegranates involved.
While I have not heard of Robin Corak before reading this, she appears to have a solid background in paganism and as a priestess. The book is well researched with references noted throughout.
It was definitely weighted towards practices rather than exploration of the myth. I did find the language used a little New Age though this is a minor niggle.
Overall, I felt this serves as a good addition to this popular series.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
In this short book Robin Corak provides an introduction to the Greek Goddess Persephone, including variations on the myth and the importance of the Rites of Eleusis and the Underworld journey.
It is subtitled ‘Practicing the Art of Personal Power� and includes a number of guided meditations, rituals, and journal prompts focusing on developing a relationship with Persephone.
There are also recipes for incense, bath teas, and anointing oils. She includes how to create a personal divination system named Persephone’s Seeds of Wisdom. Another chapter contains suggestions for creating a feast in Persephone’s honour; as might be expected there are pomegranates involved.
While I have not heard of Robin Corak before reading this, she appears to have a solid background in paganism and as a priestess. The book is well researched with references noted throughout.
It was definitely weighted towards practices rather than exploration of the myth. I did find the language used a little New Age though this is a minor niggle.
Overall, I felt this serves as a good addition to this popular series.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
June 5, 2020
As a by-the-seat-of-your-pants pagan, I fluctuate in my daily activities and seasonal celebrations. Being an in-your-face religious person has never been my bag. I tend to keep to my own guides/Goddesses/Gods and vary very little from that comfortable place. So, when the opportunity to learn more about Persephone arose, I jumped. It was always my assumption that she was associated with dark and light, shadow and growth. And well, I wasn't far off.
Pagan Portals - Persephone was a well thought out guide for those wanting to dive more deeply into the myth of Persephone and included multiple guided meditations, journaling questions, rituals, bath oils, recipes, and divination tools.
While I didn't resonate with the continued intimation of the victim aspect, I do think the idea of owning one's previous 'happenings' (Yas, Queen sort of mentality). I do think the book has illuminated some aspects that I would like to pursue working with in the future.
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
Pagan Portals - Persephone was a well thought out guide for those wanting to dive more deeply into the myth of Persephone and included multiple guided meditations, journaling questions, rituals, bath oils, recipes, and divination tools.
While I didn't resonate with the continued intimation of the victim aspect, I do think the idea of owning one's previous 'happenings' (Yas, Queen sort of mentality). I do think the book has illuminated some aspects that I would like to pursue working with in the future.
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
April 21, 2020
3.5
This is kind of a self-help book.
It comes with stories meant to empower you as a woman.
It includes journal prompts, meditations, rituals, and recipes to connect with Persephone, or your inner goddess.
It outlines Persephone's ancient story in views you've probably never seen it before.
But for me, I couldn't make the mental connections between light and dark, her taking power verse giving it, and me and my decisions.
Ffor someone looking to add in some new feminine perspective and spirituality in their life, this could be a quick and useful tool to reference.
Thank you to John Hunt Publishing Ltd and NetGalley for the ARC.
This is kind of a self-help book.
It comes with stories meant to empower you as a woman.
It includes journal prompts, meditations, rituals, and recipes to connect with Persephone, or your inner goddess.
It outlines Persephone's ancient story in views you've probably never seen it before.
But for me, I couldn't make the mental connections between light and dark, her taking power verse giving it, and me and my decisions.
Ffor someone looking to add in some new feminine perspective and spirituality in their life, this could be a quick and useful tool to reference.
Thank you to John Hunt Publishing Ltd and NetGalley for the ARC.
April 22, 2020
This is a powerful book full of story and imagery and most of all, a beautiful way of bringing the stories of this goddess to life. I especially loved the retelling of the story from Persephone’s voice� I have never heard anything like that before and I have read a lot about the goddesses. Also, the guided imagery and journaling questions were especially helpful to me on this journey. I highly recommend this book to any woman who looked deeply into her life, or any man who cares about a woman who looked deeply into her life.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for my honest review
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for my honest review
November 22, 2024
The book is mostly a self-help book with a pagan flair. However, in what it offers it excels at: defining personal power and how to seize it, how to face our shadows, and plenty of guided meditations. All the while it uses Persephone as an anchor for each task. I wouldn’t recommend it for absolute beginners of Paganism, as it’s not a book about pagan practice itself but rather enhancing it. If you are interested in engaging in shadow work with Persephone, this is worth giving a read.
A longer, more in-depth review is located
A longer, more in-depth review is located
December 5, 2022
Particularly a fan that the the entirety Persephone x Hades story was shared. So often books about Persephone will gloss over her story as a summary more so. Everything after that story retelling continued to build and flow flawlessly.
Great book for those looking for ways to work with Persephone more deeply through meditation as well.
Also a ton of journal prompts at the end of every chapter to pause and reflect on.
Great book for those looking for ways to work with Persephone more deeply through meditation as well.
Also a ton of journal prompts at the end of every chapter to pause and reflect on.
March 10, 2023
This was a really precise and easy to follow guide to working with Persephone and what exactly you can utilise her for in spiritual practice. Not only does it give in-depth meditation guides as well as recipes, oils and tea to create - it documents very well and clearly how Persephone can be used as an aid to help us reclaim our own personal power. So much of the writing really resonated with me and I recommend to anyone who feels called upon by Persephone or paganism!
April 13, 2020
Thankyou to NetGalley, John Hunt Publishing and the author, Robin Cook, for the opportunity to read an advanced readers copy of Pagan Portals - Persephone, in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
I thought this book was beautifully written with remarkable attention to detail. Very informative.
I thought this book was beautifully written with remarkable attention to detail. Very informative.
May 14, 2022
While the book is written from a Western European perspective, it’s firmly grounded in the myths and religions in which Persephone was originally found. The author explores the topics related to the goddess in a thoughtful way and prompts the reader to do the same, while focusing on our own spiritual life.
March 25, 2020
An excellent book, well researched and full of food for thought.
I liked how it talks about Persephone, the myth and the Goddess, and the hints and ideas.
It was an excellent read, highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
I liked how it talks about Persephone, the myth and the Goddess, and the hints and ideas.
It was an excellent read, highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
April 4, 2022
This is the first book I've read about Persephone from point of view of a fellow Persephone devotee. The book is thin but one can get countless informations if they delve deep enough. I loved the recipés at the end and this book made me take a step further in my daily practice.
June 3, 2020
Engaging book. Look forward to reading more from this author.
February 14, 2025
An interesting read, almost a little primer into Persephone, both the character and the worship/ following of her.
April 27, 2020
Great information about Persephone and her descent. Really interesting information about her and other information put in. Another good book from Pagan Portals.
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February 6, 2025Pagan Portals - Persephone: Practicing the Art of Personal Power by Robin Corak is a thought-provoking exploration of the myth of Persephone, reimagined through a lens of empowerment. The book is structured into eight insightful chapters that take readers on a journey to connect with the transformative energy of this powerful figure.
In the opening chapter, Corak offers a compelling retelling of Persephone's myth, emphasizing her evolution from a powerless child to a strong, empowered woman. This fresh perspective sets the tone for the book, inviting readers to view their own lives through a similar transformative lens. The second chapter delves into the Eleusinian Mysteries, exposing deeper meanings and hidden layers within Persephone’s story that enhance our understanding of her significance.
The author further enriches the narrative by discussing archetypal themes in chapter three, drawing from Joseph Campbell’s work to highlight the universal elements of empowerment found in myths. As the book progresses, chapters four and five present Persephone as a psychopomp, a guiding figure in the realm of personal transformation, encouraging readers to seek discernment in their own journeys.
In the later chapters, Corak provides practical tools, such as rituals and meditations, that allow readers to connect with Persephone's energy. These resources are valuable for those looking to embrace their personal power and navigate their inner landscapes. The conclusion of the book underscores the importance of exploring one’s inner darkness as a pathway to liberation and renewal, reinforcing the idea that true empowerment comes from an authentic understanding of oneself.
Overall, Pagan Portals - Persephone serves as both a mythological retelling and a practical guide, offering a transformative template that encourages readers to embrace their personal journeys. Through Corak's insightful analysis and engaging writing, readers are inspired to reflect on their own power and the lessons found within the myth of Persephone.
In the opening chapter, Corak offers a compelling retelling of Persephone's myth, emphasizing her evolution from a powerless child to a strong, empowered woman. This fresh perspective sets the tone for the book, inviting readers to view their own lives through a similar transformative lens. The second chapter delves into the Eleusinian Mysteries, exposing deeper meanings and hidden layers within Persephone’s story that enhance our understanding of her significance.
The author further enriches the narrative by discussing archetypal themes in chapter three, drawing from Joseph Campbell’s work to highlight the universal elements of empowerment found in myths. As the book progresses, chapters four and five present Persephone as a psychopomp, a guiding figure in the realm of personal transformation, encouraging readers to seek discernment in their own journeys.
In the later chapters, Corak provides practical tools, such as rituals and meditations, that allow readers to connect with Persephone's energy. These resources are valuable for those looking to embrace their personal power and navigate their inner landscapes. The conclusion of the book underscores the importance of exploring one’s inner darkness as a pathway to liberation and renewal, reinforcing the idea that true empowerment comes from an authentic understanding of oneself.
Overall, Pagan Portals - Persephone serves as both a mythological retelling and a practical guide, offering a transformative template that encourages readers to embrace their personal journeys. Through Corak's insightful analysis and engaging writing, readers are inspired to reflect on their own power and the lessons found within the myth of Persephone.
October 6, 2020
Pagan Portals Persephone by Robin Corak
Book Review by Dawn Thomas
112 Pages
Publisher: John Hunt Publishing / Moon Books
Release Date: April 24, 2020
Health, Mind & Body, Religion & Spirituality
I thought I knew about Her but after reading this book, I have a new perspective. Although it is only about one hundred pages, it is full of information. At the end of each chapter are journal exercises that are thought provoking. There are guided meditations to work with Persephone and the Ancestors. There is a chapter on divination that is especially good. The directions to make your own divination seeds are easy to follow. I especially like the divination with the bay leaves.
The author did a wonderful job listing her references throughout the book. She did a thorough job with her research. I highly recommend this book to any This is an excellent book for anyone that works with or wants to work with Persephone. Plus, this is the perfect time of year to connect with Her.
Book Review by Dawn Thomas
112 Pages
Publisher: John Hunt Publishing / Moon Books
Release Date: April 24, 2020
Health, Mind & Body, Religion & Spirituality
I thought I knew about Her but after reading this book, I have a new perspective. Although it is only about one hundred pages, it is full of information. At the end of each chapter are journal exercises that are thought provoking. There are guided meditations to work with Persephone and the Ancestors. There is a chapter on divination that is especially good. The directions to make your own divination seeds are easy to follow. I especially like the divination with the bay leaves.
The author did a wonderful job listing her references throughout the book. She did a thorough job with her research. I highly recommend this book to any This is an excellent book for anyone that works with or wants to work with Persephone. Plus, this is the perfect time of year to connect with Her.
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