Judy Croome: Author on the Prowl

This was an interesting guide through an enthralling topic. Deatsman clearly knows her subject and provides the reader with a fairly broad overview of exactly what Shamanism is. A Zulu sangoma living in Swaziland even got a mention!

There were temperate reminders of the seriousness of this path, and also practical wisdom and sensible directions to introduce lay people to the history, philosophy and tasks of Shamans in today’s rapidly changing world where traditional ways are being lost and the material world is overpowering the spiritual.

What I liked least about the book was that, however gently phrased, there was too much authoritative instruction and not enough sharing of the passion which Deatsman clearly feels for her topic. Deatsman’s knowledge of shamanism is impressive and allows her to write about abstract concepts in a clear and concise manner. But, at times, I would have enjoyed less intellect and more emotional ecstasy in the way she describes the shamans journeying to the Other (non-ordinary) World.

Overall, though, this is an excellent introduction into a fascinating and powerful path to healing for one Self or as a path to assist others in healing themselves.