Reviewer: Mark Bishop, Ex-Occultist, www.ex-witch.org (Dallas, TX) May 9, 2005

I found "Hour of the Witch" to be a refreshingly sane look at Wicca and some of the cultural pressures which help it to flourish here in America. It is a balanced look at the topic from a Christian perspective, and I for one, appreciate the lack of shrill sensationalism that generally accompanies a book on the subject from a Christian author.

Reviewer: Mike R. (Sacramento, CA) April 19, 2005

“Hour of the Witch” is an excellent book!!

First of all, the book is engaging. I couldn’t put it down. It is very well researched, documented and written. Steve Wohlberg does a great job of explaining in very simple terms what Wicca Witchcraft is and demonstrates that much of its belief system / life style is indeed reflected in the “Harry Potter” series.

Unlike other works on this topic, “Hour of the Witch” does an outstanding job of addressing Wiccan beliefs and the Harry Potter debate in a respectful way so as to avoid the negatively charged emotions often associated with these controversial subjects. The Author understands that those who practice Wicca Witchcraft (far from being evil monsters) are most often very pleasant, sincere individuals who are honestly attempting to tap into supernatural powers to do good - just like “Harry Potter” does in the stories. And who wouldn’t like to do that? Herein lies the allure of “Harry Potter”.

Many see no harm in “Harry Potter,” while others misunderstand and condemn Wiccans based on pre-conceived ideas. This book will help tremendously in opening minds and hearts on either side of this controversy.

While the warnings in this book against Witchcraft (which are all Biblically based) are straightforward and non-apologetic, the author does not attempt to condemn those who practice Wicca. Instead, he masterfully explains Wiccan beliefs and practices in simple terms, shares the truths of the Bible, and then compares and contrasts the two belief systems, illuminating the dangers that the Bible foretells can come upon those who open “alternative” spiritual gateways. The book is filled with excellent insights and should go a long way in helping readers on both sides of the debate. Whether you like or dislike “Harry”, or if you are a practicing Wiccan, “Hour of the Witch” is a must-read for all.

Reviewer: Pam Bolton (Oregon) April 18, 2005
Pottermania, Wicca, & the Embracing Love of God

Hour of the Witch is an exceptionally well-written, well-organized book. The author¹s premise, that the Harry Potter books can and do impact the very thoughts and lives of individuals, is meticulously researched and documented. While the book is understandably from a Christian point of view, Steve Wohlberg maintains an open heart and concern for those with opposing viewpoints, and offers words of hope and encouragement to all. There is no “witch-bashing” or maniacal, frenzied fire-and-brimstone diatribes. On the contrary, Hour of the Witch brings careful and considerate Christian views to the subject of Wicca and it’s relationship - overt (easily seen) and occult (hidden) - to the exponentially growing fascination with the Harry Potter phenomena. But the love and Word of God is first and foremost declared in this book. As a former witch, I highly recommend Hour of the Witch - to parents, to teachers, and even to practitioners of the Craft.

Reviewer: V. Mulder “Stephen D. Mulder” (Templeton, California) April 17, 2005

This is a TERRIFIC book. Steve Wohlberg has taken great pains to carefully document Harry Potter's relationship with modern witchcraft and Wicca. He then contrasts the difference between Wiccan and Biblical teaching. He draws from many sources, avoiding injecting his own opinion into the controversy until a fair analysis of both sides has been made.

This is the kind of book EVERY parent should read, because it gives a perspective that is balanced, and fair. It gives the reader a chance to consider Harry Potter, Wicca, and the Bible from a point of view that may not be popular--it may not be what you're reading in the media, but reminds us that the Bible condemns witchcraft in ALL forms. Wohlberg moves on to show that the Bible's teaching--even its strongest warnings are for our protection and welfare.

One powerful chapter that should not be missed is, "The Spell: It Is Only Fiction!" Wohlberg's critics will always jump at this claim. But the fact is, "Fiction is a powerful communicator of ideas that influence thought and behavior." Fiction is a tool to teach, much like a Biblical parable can convey a powerful message. As Wohlberg states in his close of that chapter, "Albus Dumbledore says, 'Truth is generally preferable to lies.' This isn't right. Truth is always preferable to lies." Why is this important? Because as Wohlberg points out, the Bible warns us about a powerful fallen angel who opposed God by mixing truth with error to mask his deceptions.

Wohlberg effectively contrasts two opposing philosophies. One popular with the world and lauded in the media, the other built on Biblical teaching. This is much more useful to me than those who are shouting that Harry Potter has nothing to do with real witchcraft, or worse, that real witchcraft doesn't exist. Buy this book! It pays to have new perspective.