h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Hi Matholwch.

I am interested in learning more about Druidry as I am still trying to find my path and druidry is starting to really intrest me.

What books to you recommend and which groups would you suggest I should contact?

All the best.

Shaun

Hi Shaun

I have got an edited guide entry on druidry here: A1300140

As for books n'stuff I would start with anything by Emma Restall Orr (bobcat) or Phillip Shallcrass (Greywolf).

Safe and informative websites would include The Druid Network (www.druidnetwork.com) and The British Druid Order (www.druidorder.demon.co.uk). Both have a broad range of information to consider for no charge. The former also has a very active set of web-forums.

The key things to remember if embarking on an investigation into druidry is this is YOUR path to walk. Anyone who demands you do anything in particular, and specifically anything that makes you uncomfortable, is not druid. We share our wisdom, we do not ask for obedience, worship or even commitment.

There are a lot of druid Orders out there and quite a few are orbiting far beyond the lunatic fringe. You must make your own decisions about these. It should be pointed out that you do not have to join or even know of any Orders, the majority of druids operate singly or in small independant groves of 2-7 people. Do not let anyone tell you otherwise.

There are quite a few courses on druidry out there now. Only two really have a depth of scholarship that makes them useful:
1. The first is the well-established Order of Bards, Ovates & Druid's course. Some find this long and detailed course difficult and few find it quite prescriptive. It will take a few years to complete and you will progress though what OBOD believe are the ancient levels of druidry - Bard, Ovate and finally Druid. The course is linked to membership of the Order.
2. The second is the Albion Conclave course. This is looser and less prescriptive yet has a equally impressive level of scholarship. The Albion Conclave is not an Order though has close links to The Druid Network and its founders support the Mistletoe Foundation. It will also take a few years to complete, but doesn't take you through any 'levels'.

Both courses have a subscription charge, though neither makes a profit. There are courses out there which are run to line the pockets of unscrupulous individuals so be careful.

If you join the Druid Network's Forums (registration is free) and then go into the Introductions section and post that you came from here I will greet you properly and be able to give you a lot more info.

Feel free to ask me any questions you like here.

Blessings,
Matholwch /|\

Thanks for the help.