Book Review: Empty Cauldrons by Terence P Ward

  • Source: I received an advance copy of this book on NetGalley

  • My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (see my review on Goodreads)

Confession: I had planned to review this book weeks ago, but I’m only getting to it now. Why? Because this book is SO GOOD that I was forced to slow my pace and savor every single word. Every time I attempted to read faster, I just couldn’t be rushed. And then I would basically go back and read large chunks of it aloud to my partner, because it was too good not to share. The breadth of interviews and perspectives included in every section of this book (from various pagan practitioners to medical and clinical professionals) really speak to the passion of the author to help people struggling with depression. It was nice that they included both scientific/medical approaches as well as spiritual ones, shedding light on both their weaknesses and highlighting strengths.

Empty Cauldrons is an exceptionally thoughtful, thorough, and compassionate conversation about depression. I felt so validated, so many times (in the first section on Defining Depression alone), that I wanted to cry. I really appreciate this well-rounded and realistic approach to depression. Ward recommends keeping a journal as part of your experience in living with depression, and I was excited by how many great ideas were provided here as well. Not only do they suggest a variety of methods for journaling in general, but each section also comes with at least one journal prompt or exercise to encourage deeper contemplation and introspection.

I can’t say enough good things about this book. It will have a permanent place on my shelf, and will be the go-to book I recommend to others who are seeing more insight about depression.

book reviewKelleynonfiction, witchcraft, mental health