A Path Through The Forest

For Northern Ireland please select UK and then N.I. as the region, at the checkout

My latest book is a collection of essaysand interviews, due April 2024, I have a limited no of advance copies for sale!

Covering an entire metonic cycle of 19 years (2004-2023) in the life of a druid, this collection covers everything from ethics to gardening with the intention of provoking both thought and action. Of his Druid work the author states “My job is to push the boundaries of Druidic understanding, to challenge the accepted norms and to question what direction neo-Druidry should be headed in. I am not here to comfort and sooth, but to stimulate and promote wisdom and the evolution of Druidic consciousness.

Endorsements...

'A Path Through the Forest is a comprehensive and thought-provoking compilation of essays on subjects that have great relevance for Druidry today. With sections on Druid basics, environmentalism, metaphysics, history and ethics, this collection provides food for thought through the lens of one Druid seeker and is a valuable insight into a Druid’s philosophical exploration of their path.'

Philip Carr-Gomm, author of Druid Mysteries

In this down to earth book, Luke offers no-nonsense Druidic history, wisdom and logic relevant for today’s modern world. To learn how to live now and for future generations we need to understand our past, both sociopolitical and historical. This book offers guidance to do just that.

Emma Farrell, Plant Spirit Healer and author of Journeys with Plant Spirits

A wide-ranging collection of essays written by an Irish Druid that pokes jabs at modern Pagan dogmas and leaders, and advocates for the re-learning of practical skills and a life path that respects nature. The articles are at times complaining and cranky but always thoughtful, and filled with warnings about the state of the world. If you ever wanted insight into the mind of a practicing contemporary Druid, this book should be a pleasing read.

Ellen Evert Hopman, Archdruid of Tribe of the Oak, author of the “Druid” trilogy of novels, “A Legacy of Druids – conversations with Druid leaders of Britain, the USA and Canada, past and present”, ”and of other volumes on tree lore and Celtic Herbalism

Luke Eastwood’s essays are thought-provoking. Like diving into any subject, you don’t have to agree with everything, but only open your mind to hear what is being said, and use that knowledge to expand your own view. These essays do just that: they approach the subjects from a personal viewpoint, combined with academic research and years of practical experience and offer a perspective on Druidry that is interesting and heartfelt. Some of the essays are a snapshot in time, that still resonate today, while others are more contemporary. All in all, this is a good collection for Druids who want to consider their own practice more deeply and who are looking for inspiration.

Joanna van der Hoeven author of The Book of Hedge Druidry and The Path of the Hedge Witch

Luke Eastwood’s eclectic and thought-provoking book touches on aspects of Celtic and Druid culture from history and ecology to ethics and metaphysics. Throughout, Eastwood applies a critical lens to the landscape of modern Druidry, challenging practitioners to reflect on their own behavior and make improvements where possible. This collection will leave those involved in Druid or Pagan communities with many hard questions to mull over, and that can only be a good thing.

Logan Albright, author of Libertarian Paganism and Conform or Be Cast Out: The (Literal) Demonization of Nonconformists

In A Path Through The Forest, Eastwood invited us to join him on his life-long journey from his childhood to the present day. In this remarkable series of essays and articles, spanning a period of over a decade, Eastwood shares his experiences and learning as he continues along his personal path of learning. It is impossible to read this collection of works without admiring Eastwood’s tenacity, the breadth of his interests and the depth of his knowledge. The variety of topics addressed is noteworthy and one can only be inspired by the fearless way Eastwood approaches a variety of contentious issues, refusing to submit to the pressures of convention, whilst forging his own path through what can often be a confusing and disheartening landscape. This book is a must for all those committed to following a similar journey of spiritual and practical growth. There is no doubt that a great deal may be garnered from Eastwood’s insights and writings.

Jon G. Hughes, author of A Druid's Handbook To The Spiritual Power of Plants and The Druidic Art Of Divination: Understanding The Past And Seeing Into The Future

I always find Luke's books to be informative and engaging and this set of articles does not disappoint. As well as, on one level, these articles being well written, Luke has also done a lot of research on his topic - Druidry. On another level, Luke is sharing with us, his readers, his own personal journey and how he eventually became a horticulturalist /Earth Guardian. There are so many one-liners that stood out for me, making me stop and breathe that comment in. Two in particular stand out. 1. 'Morality is clearly part of our Spirituality' & 2. There was once a garden and that garden was the world'. Thank you Luke for again reminding us of our own 'inner garden' of our Soul-Self and our responsibility to protect Great Mother.

Amantha Murphy, author of The Way Of The Seabhean: An Irish Shamanic Path

Reviews...

'The first thing that drew me to this book was the title, it’s very much a title that would resonate with any Pagan; our spiritual journeys are indeed similar to a path through the forest, and I was interested in reading more.The content is a collection of over 70 essays spanning over 15 years and is a timeless look at Druidry during this time. The subject matter of the essays is varied covering many aspects of what it is to live as a Druid. Themes delved into include the Ancestors, the environment, history, ethics and metaphysics. Each essay is well written, thought provoking and the author is not afraid to discuss some of the more controversial topics. This book is a down to earth, no nonsense look at Druidry and gives plenty of relevant insights. Recommended' Pagan Dawn Magazine

'In what is a truly magnificent, engrossing and enlightening new collection of essays - complete with interviews on Druidry, environmentalism, nature, ethics and spiritual wisdom spanning over 15 years - I myself found it to be both highly informational and dutifully thoughtful, along with being well-written and complete with opinions that did not skew my thoughts ion the subject to hand either way. Furthermore, author Luke Eastwood’s writing style is very easy to read, understand and follow, and although one might easily decide to just read one or two essays at a time, perhaps coming back later to read more, I would actually encourage the reader to spend more time per sitting with it.
His collected prose on the subject is just prefect, and highly recommended if you are new to the druid world or finding yourself with this book in your hands as simply an innocent, yet curious bystander. So yes, I would suggest taking a chapter in at a time. They are not overly long, nor overly intensive, but I guarantee that if you take the time you will begin to enjoy the book so much more. There are six sections, ranging from basics to history and even one with various interviews. Stand out sections for me personal included the ones on both Ethics and the really intriguing Metaphysics, but each to their own, of course.
Simply out, anyone interested in learning about Druidry, considering following the path, or are even currently - at some level - on the path, would greatly benefit from reading the sumptuously informative and dutifully impassioned essays within this great new book.' Exclusive Magazine

Leaving aside the rather clunky and laboured Preface written by David Sparenberg (I really dislike the passive voice in writing and his would-be profundity irritates me), this is a pleasant collection of short personal essays. It is generally reprints of pieces published in various, mainly Irish, Pagan magazines.
He isn’t intending to write a guidebook or teaching aid, there are no rituals. This is, instead, a story of his personal journey in Druidry. Divided into six sections: Basics of Druidry, Environmentalism, Druidic History, Metaphysics, Druid Ethics, and Interview transcripts.
I appreciated his very grounded and moderate approach to history and to modern Druidry. Although some of the earlier essays contained some historical inaccuracies, the Pagan survivals notions for one, he clearly understands that revival of the cult of the head, slavery, human and animal sacrifice, and some other aspects of the authentic historical practices of Druids and Celtic peoples would not be desirable to revive! And he revisited the history to correct his earlier errors.
His focus on ethics in magic and his strong environmental emphasis are also notable. I liked the pragmatic and grounded approach to a spiritual life here.
This is a collection of short personal essays, not a scholarly or unified text. It gives a view of the perspectives and experience of a modern Druid’s development, like a series of conversations over a pint.' Facingnorth.net

'This is Luke's fourth book with Moon Books, and all are concerned with Druidry, nature and environmentalism. A Path through The Forest is a fascinating insight into both Luke Eastwood's own Druidry and the development of Druidry as a spiritual path. The book contains a large collection of essaysand articles on diverse subjects, such as ethics and metaphysics, as well as some enlightening interviews with pagan authors and musicians. The span of the book covers a period of nineteen years - a significant number for Druids as it was once considered to be the metonic cycle, the period of time it took to become a full Druid in of past. This is the ideal book for anyone on the Druid path, considering it or interested in pagan communities in general. Throughout the essays readers will get a sense of Luke's deep understanding of the ecology of wildness and gardening ethics, and his passion for this is a force to inspire others into action. He driving states: "I am not here to comfort and sooth, but to stimulate and promote wisdom and the evolution of Druidic consciousness." And indeed, he constantly pushes boundaries - of Druidry, conservation and conformity. These are very thought-provoking topics and undoubtedly they will benefit anyone who reads this inspiring book. Luke's writing style is very down to earth (pun intended) and accessible. I particularly enjoyed reading about the history of the Druid path and seeing how Luke's own Druid path has matured over the nineteen years. I was equally moved to hear of his struggles with depression and how gardening helped him overcome his mental health issues. The benefits of nature and the pleasure of growing our own food is something I embrace wholeheartedly, and encourage others reading this book to try as well. A great read!' Indie Shaman Magazine

'Constructed of 77 essays and 7 interviews, this collection is a detailed insight into the life of a modern practicing Druid. Eastwood’s book, prefaced by the exacting prose of David Sparenberg is reflective of someone who puts careful thought into each aspect of his life, not least his spiritual journey, visible in each page. At times autobiographical (My Journey with OBOD), and a showing of pride in his locality (Kerry a Kingdom worthy of the name), this work can be both a handbook for those embarking on their Druid journey and a comparative study for those with more years walking their spiritual path. In The Forgotten Irish Influence on British Neo- Druidry is a well referenced and concise taste of how Ancient Irish culture persisits in a modern world, helping shape it for the future while reaching a hand back to a past not quite faded. For me personally this encapsulates the book, knowledge communicated in carefully chosen prose which reflects a vibrant present holding that liminal space between history and the future not yet manifested. A treasure of a read.' Pagan Ireland Magazine

'For anyone interested in the history of the current pagan communities, especially in relation to Irish Druidry, this book may be useful. It is a collection of the authors articles, essays, and interviews, describing his journey to becoming an Irish Druid.He gives historical background to the information, citing where this may not be accurate but is what is currently available. He also provides his own thoughts and understanding of these, giving the reader an insight into how the ideas are not dogma, that they can be adapted by the individual to be relevant to use in today’s world.
The author has written many thought provoking ideas and statements, offering his perspective from his own journey. Whilst the reader can acknowledge the authors path, by keeping an open mind and using the information provided to expand your own perceptions, some points may lead to an acceptance to agree to disagree. As the author says so well -‘Perhaps it’s time to accept responsibility for our own personal Gnostic journey — to begin understanding both ourselves and the divine. If we all took responsibility just for ourselves only and bringing the sacred into our own lives, this might bear more fruit than endless religious debate and conflict. Surely, when our lives come to an end, how we, ourselves, have chosen to live is all that really matters? What everyone else chooses to do is not our responsibility.’ kitchenwitchhearth.net

'I was delighted when my fellow author Luke Eastwood offered me an advance copy of his latest book: A Path through the Forest, which is officially published later this month. Luke is a Druid and environmentalist who lives in Ireland. His earlier books are about Druidry, nature, religion and environmentalism, and include The Druid Garden, The Druid's Primer and The Journey. Luke's new book is a collection of his articles and interviews on the same topics and others including the landscape and history of Ireland. Most of the essays were printed in magazines or posted online but some are previously unpublished. Here's the synopsis from publisher Moon Books' website:
"Covering an entire metonic cycle of 19 years (2004-2023) in the life of a druid, this collection covers everything from ethics to gardening with the intention of provoking both thought and action. Of his Druid work the author states: “My job is to push the boundaries of Druidic understanding, to challenge the accepted norms and to question what direction neo-Druidry should be headed in. I am not here to comfort and sooth, but to stimulate and promote wisdom and the evolution of Druidic consciousness."
Luke's essays show his passion for nature spirituality and knowledge about Druidry. By reading his articles I learnt more about his life and how he overcame a struggle with depression through gardening. The span of the writing shows Luke developing his ideas, including how problems from climate change to health and mental wellbeing could be helped if more of us got outside and grew our own vegetables. He also discusses ethics in religion, calling for more honesty, integrity and tolerance whatever path we follow, but also urging us to avoid complacency. A Path through the Forest is thought-provoking reading and has inspired me to plant seeds this spring.' Lucya Szachnowski | A Bad Witch's Blog

'The book is divided into four sections: Druidry Basics, Environmentalism, Metaphysics, and Ethics. In the first section, he explains the rising of druidry over the past 300 years, the two main schools, revivalist and reconstructionist, and the founders of each. But the part I liked most here was his research on witch burnings and satanic leanings, separating these from druidry historically.

Then, in the environmental section, he urges every druid to get out and garden. Now!!! He could not be more passionate about helping the earth, and thinks that druids especially, who revere spirit in nature, should be at the forefront of environmentalism during these perilous times (and his Druid Garden book is awesome reading as well). He does get fairly negative here about humanity being callous toward nature and the future of the earth, so be forewarned.

In the metaphysics section, Mr. Eastwood explains the history of druids being invaded and shipped out of their homelands into the worldwide diaspora that exists today. He discusses druid traditions during holidays, mainly in Ireland in current times, with several pieces on Samhain. There is a brief history of religious intolerance through history, plus his ideas about shifting or removing some of the Ogham letters from that alphabet... Mr. Eastwood also details the history of County Kerry and pre-Christian ritual sites across Ireland. Then he goes into Celtic cosmology with his understandings and thoughts about the elements and four directions, finishing up with a caution about technology taking the place of physical interactions with each other.

And lastly, Mr. Eastwood discusses the ethics of druidry, the section I personally liked best. He stands tall in his truth in this section, sharply criticizing druid groups with a single leader. He says, “bullying and group think are dangerous,” things he’s experienced himself, and thinks all pagan groups need leaders who are elected by the group as a whole and held accountable. The other ethical emphases for druids he writes about are: to tell and uphold the truth, be tolerant of others paths, foster connection to the earth and nature, keep hope alive and stay positive with all the darkness rising on earth, go inside and make inner change in order to manifest happiness, and especially eschew violence. He emphasizes a deep connection and commitment to the physical land we live in and the ancestors of place. “Druidry is a comprehensive belief system and way of life, and it is a wholesale rejection of modern nihilistic values in the west,” he says. His three pillars of druidry are: wisdom, truth, and love. This ethics section is very much a call to action and responsibility. I agreed with nearly all of it and thought it well thought out and much needed in the field.' The Druid Network