Barddas -  J. Williams ab Ithel

Recommended. Compiled from two earlier works of Iolo Morgannwg by J. Williams ab Ithel for the 1862 Eisteddfod, this has essentially become a practical doctrine for a large proportion of the neo-Druidic community. Whether fabrication, adaptation or word of a 'Universal Bond', this is an essential tome for those studying the modern Brythonic tradition.  

Celtic Heritage - Rees

Highly Recommended. Delving deeper into the Celtic psyche than many books, this is an excellent work for those interested in the spirituality of the Celtic peoples rather than simply the evidence of their history and culture. This book contains some fascinating comparisons between Celtic and Brahmin mythology.

Dying for the Gods - Miranda Aldhouse-Green

Recommended. The subject of sacrifice is difficult for many neo-pagans who look towards a more romantic ideal of history as an alternative to the modern society they are reacting against. The concept of ritual murder does not fit into this ideal and thus whatever the evidence they will interpret the potentially sacrificial evidence as propaganda or murder victims. For a objective interpretation of the subject this is the necessary work.

Exploring the World of the Celts - Simon James

Part of an excellent series including 'Exploring the World of the Druids', these serve as a fascinating introduction to the general reader, yet are also of interest to the more knowledgeable reader due to the quality of the production.

Exploring the World of the Druids - Miranda Aldhouse-Green

An excellent introduction to the problem of the Druids. Very rich in pictures and illustrations this is very much a companion to 'Exploring the World of the Celts'. This has a general appeal that whilst very detailed is very easy to read.

Gods of the Celts - Miranda Aldhouse-Green

An examination of evidence of the deities of the Celtic peoples. Whilst encompassing more than the insular Gods this is a necessity for the depth of investigation and serves as an invaluable tool for comparative practice and inspiration for re-constructing possible practices.

Gods with Thunderbolts - Guy de la Bedoyere

Recommended. One of Britain's premier historians of the Roman period, this book addresses the religions practices present in Britain during the Roman period. Of particular note is the appendix listing inscriptions to specific deities.

The Mabinogion - Lady Charlotte Guest

Essential. A core text for anyone with an interest in British mythology,  The Mabinogion is a compilation of earlier stories, first compiled by Lady Charlotte Guest in 1849, whose edition includes the Book of Taliesin. Many popular translations now exist, including Jones and Jones, Gantz, and Ford. A brand new translation by Sioned Davies was published in March 2007, and we would recommend it. Also of note is the Bollard version with some gorgeous photography of the sites themselves.

The Pagan Celts - Anne Ross

A excellent general work on the Celtic culture from a well known author. Although dated in places it remains a useful introductory work. Also of interest by the same author is 'Life and Death of a Druid Prince', an admittedly conjectural work on the ‘Lindow Man’ bog body.

The Quest for Merlin - Nickolai Tolstoy

Highly Recommended. Written by the grandson of the writer of 'War and Peace', this is a detailed investigation into the Myrrdin stories. Essential for anyone interested in the Brythonic tradition, it utilises actual literary, landscape and archaeological evidence to place such things as the location of Myrddins' retreat in the Caledonian forest. Of particular interest is evidence of Druidic survival past the commonly accepted period.