Nonfiction Readers' Advisory Matrix

Paganism:  An Introduction to Earth-Centered Religions

by Joyce & River Higginbotham

1. Where is the book on the narrative continuum?

A mix (combines highly narrative moments with periods of fact-based prose).

2.  What is the subject of the book?

Religion and Spirituality: The origins of Paganism and how people practice Paganism today.

3.  What type of book is it?

Informational, using aspects of memoir to illustrate important points.

4.  Articulate appeal

What is the pacing of the book?

Measured.

Describe the characters of the book

The authors, Joyce and River Higginbotham, are domestic partners, and many points of the book are presented through the lens of their own lives and experiences and those of their friends and family.  They use first-person pronouns and write in a conversational style.

How does the story feel?

Friendly, inviting, and eye-opening.

What is the intent of the author?

To teach the reader about the basics of Paganism and how one might practice it, reduce the stigma around this type of religion, and lead the reader toward personal growth.

What is the focus of the story?

The diversity of beliefs under the umbrella of "Paganism."

Does the language matter?

Yes.

Is the setting important and well-described?

The setting is unimportant in this book.

Are there details, and if so, of what?

There are many details of facts and milestones in the early history of the religion and present-day scientific hypotheses supposedly supporting the Pagan belief system.

Are there sufficient charts and other graphic materials?  Are they useful and clear?

The authors use several illustrations throughout the book which are useful to convey otherwise complicated ideas.

Does the book stress moments of learning, understanding, or experience?

At the end of each chapters, the authors suggest activities one can do to apply the ideas from said chapter to their own life or to explore one’s own feelings about the subject.  The authors recommend the reader keep a journal to document their “progress.”

5.  Why would a reader enjoy this book (rank appeal)?

1. Learning/Experiencing           2. Detail               3. Tone