Sarava! Afro-Brazilian Magick by Carol L. Dow

"Are you ready to launch yourself on an incredible journey? The Orixás are gathering to guide you. Just as the gods and goddesses are greeted, I say saravá to you."
- Carol L. Dow

One-hundred-sixty-million people believe in a religion that is little known in the United States. The rites often seem eccentric to those accustomed to calmer spiritual fare.

Now, for the first time in the English language, here is an insider's look at these popular sects of the Brazilian mystery religions.

Although Saravá! Afro-Brazilian Magick addresses some of the seemingly exotic aspects of these folk religions, it also delves into their spiritual roots and explains how these venerable neo-African practices are linked to the Great Western Mystery Tradition.

Plus, this book shows how the deeply felt magickal beliefs affect all aspects of people's lives.

While living in Brazil, Dr. Carol Dow attended ceremonies, interviewed heads of sects, recorded music, and collected artifacts. This book represents the fruits of her labor. Although Candomblé and Umbanda receive the lion's share of attention, this book also discusses other traditions such as Amerindian, Macumba, Quimbanda, and Spiritist sects.

"Now Carol Dow has helped make this vibrant magical religion accessible to the English-speaking world, letting us see how Umbandists cross boundaries of geography and culture to produce a religion that 'works'."
- Chas S. Clifton, editor Llewellyn's Witchcraft Today series

Carol L. Dow holds a Ph.D. in Portuguese and Brazilian Studies and was the recipient of a Fulbright Dissertation Research Fellowship to Brazil. She has given lectures around the country on the Brazilian mystery religions.

Dr. Dow is also a practicing Wiccan and resides in Boulder, Colorado.