A Book of Shadows (abbreviated BoS) is a journal/workbook which has been created by a Wiccan practitioner. Not all Wiccans use one but those who do place special information inside. One may write about personal experiences, enclose original rituals, spells, prayers and invocations. Holiday information, deity material and dream notes may also be included. I say may within this description because each practitioner is different, therefore each BoS is different too.
If you are interested in creating a Book of Shadows, there are a variety of materials to choose from; a dairy with lock and key, three-ring binder, spiral-bound journal, blank hardbound book or CD-ROM. Each method listed has its own benefits or restrictions. For example a blank hardbound book may look beautiful but it lacks in being practical ... can you add additional pages or move sections around? For these reasons and more I often suggest utilizing a three-ring binder.
Because a practitioner's BoS is used often you may want to invest time and energy into decorating the book. Add a personal touch to blank pages, think artistically: use stickers, colored pencils, stamps and more!
When it comes to organization you have the ability to customize the book to your needs. If you plan to use a binder, grab a pack of new section dividers (like you use in school) these are really helpful in separating different topics. Inside your BoS, consider placing a journal section (for daily or weekly reflections) a circle casting format that you are most comfortable with, material on holidays, correspondences, spells etc.
After your BoS has been created you may want to tuck it in a special place away from nosy people. Also, don't worry if it's "good enough." If you put the energy into creating it, than it's special in its own way.Over time your book will evolve and grow with material. Sometimes it is okay to start a fresh one and keep the previous for reference. Most of all, enjoy and treasure your book because years from now you'll enjoy reviewing the beginning of your Wiccan journey!
