A New History of Witchcraft By Jeffrey B Russell & Brooks Alexander

It has been in print for almost 30 years, and the bulk of this book makes absorbing reading. Outlining the roots of witchcraft in cultures as diverse as ancient Sumeria and modern Botswana, Russell explores its astonishing history in Europe, from the horrific witch craze to the hilarious feud of MacGregor Mathers and Aleister Crowley (who dispatched Beelzebub and 49 demons). It is a moot point whether the bland updating by Brooks Alexander will still be read three decades from now.