Spiritual Merchants: Religion, Magic, and Commerce

Rating:
Summary: perfect addition to my library
Review: I have been researching hoodoo and voodoo for the past two years, but none of the books I've come across compare to Spiritual Merchants. Not only is it honest, but it's simple...it reads almost like a conversation. I appreciate the oodles of images and merchants, especially since Long distinguishes between their races. Unfortunately, most of the web sites are defunct. I will treasure this book always!

Rating:
Summary: One of a Kind
Review: What a great treat it's been to read Spiritual Merchants. Carolyn Long knew she was covering new ground, and it's obvious from the writing that she relished the field work. But what's at least as impressive is the depth of archival research. The preliminary history of Voodoo and hoodoo in the U.S. is really incomparable for its clarity and coherence. Carolyn Long should be congratulated for a terrifically written book--and UTP deserves the same for a beautifully produced book at a reasonable price. It's sure to be a standard for years to come.

Rating:
Summary: An interesting history of voodoo/hoodoo supplies
Review: What an impressive book! Ms. Long has definitely done her homework on this tome. I have wondered for many years about the sources she discusses in this book, and I find it thorough, open-minded and extremely enlightening. I HIGHLY recommend it to anyone curious about those strange little bottles of oils and perfumes, packets of powder, 7-day candles with silkscreened decorations on them, and any and all accoutrements of this most fascinating of subjects. I look forward to seeing more of her work!