Pixie Book Review: A Guide of Spirits by Chris Allaun
Moon Books October 1, 2021 | $16.95 Paperback | ISBN 978-1-78904-660-1
Hello my lovelies! It’s been a busy month here in Pixieland full of work, and home stuff; including several days of watching grandkids, celebrating my 25th wedding anniversary and getting some much-needed changes underway around the house. But, you’re not here to read about all that, you want to know about the latest book I managed to read (A Guide of Spirits: A Psychopomp’s Manual for Transitioning the Dead to the Afterlife by none other than Mr. Chris Allaun!).
Let’s get on with it then, shall we?
Why I Chose “A Guide of Spirits” by Chris Allaun:
I received an advanced digital copy of the book from the publisher, and I knew immediately that I would choose to review it. Why? Because, the subject matter very much applies to my ever-developing spiritual & magical practice.
With Hekate & Anubis being the illustrious duo that heads up my eclectic personal pantheon, death and spirit work have been things that keep popping up for me. So, it isn’t really surprising that this book sparked my interest.
What’s Inside: A Guide of Spirits by Chris Allaun
This 224-page volume serves as a sort of “How to” for those who wish to explore the world and work of the Psychopomp (one whom guides spirits to the afterlife).
Within its pages, Mr. Allaun shares his insights into helping to guide and heal spirits of the dead so that they may find their peace in the afterlife.
Included in this guide are meditations & exercises aimed at developing the psychic senses that aid one in spirit work as well as tips for how to cultivate a meaningful relationship with one’s own ancestors. He has also included step by step ritual frameworks for seeking a Psychopomp Teacher, visiting the Land of the Ancestors, as well as how to go about leading a spirit that needs help in finding their way.
Early in the book the author delves into the subject of Psychopomp Teachers; whom he says “can be a spirit of the dead, a god or goddess, an animal spirit, an angel, or ascended ancestor." In this section he says something that resonated with me in regards to my own experience in dealing with deities and ancestors:
“I have found that our spirit teachers are very patient with us because they understand our human failings. They will not rush us to speed through a technique so we can rush into the next one and they will not fault us if we are not ready to go forward. They will meet us at our skill level and prompt us to go forward when we are ready.”
Throughout the book Chris shares some of his own experiences, including insights he has gleaned about the afterlife through his many years doing this sacred work. He continually stresses that the work of the Psychopomp is the work of a Healer – a point I cannot disagree with.
Things I’ve put into practice and/or adapted from the book:
I’ve had my own ancestral altar for years, but after reading this, I plan to give it a revamp using some of Chris’ suggestions. I also think it’s time to reinforce my relationship with those that I work with regularly.
I also plan to use his exercises/meditation techniques to work on developing all of my “Clairs” (clairvoyance, clairaudience, clairsentience, etc.) in hopes of getting my messages from sprit to be a bit clearer.
Final Thoughts on: A Guide of Spirits by Chris Allaun
I really enjoyed this book. It spoke to me and the things I have felt called to do as I walk this magical, Pixilated Path of mine.
If you have ever felt drawn to doing spirit work, or are simply curious as to the mechanics involved, this is a must read.
I was happy to discover that there are things that I have done in my own work, out of sheer instinct, that were echoed in this text. It was nice to have validation for things that I was not taught to do, but felt I should do. Now, however, I have tools and guidance at my disposal in order to hone my skills so that they will be more effective.
I really love that Chris approaches the subject matter in a nurturing way, taking the time to reassure the reader along the way that it’s ok if we don’t get the hang of things right away. He urges us to continue on and do the work, and acknowledges that everyone has doubts on occasion.
About midway through, when discussing the use of both visualization & Imagination he says "Many of us have asked ourselves at one time or another “am I making this all up?”. The answer is “Yes you are!” But that is exactly what you are supposed to do.”
This immediately brought to mind the conversation between Harry & Dumbledore in the Spirit World version of King’s Cross Station. If you’re a Potterhead, you’ll recall this exchange from the Deathly Hallows:
“” Tell me one last thing,” said Harry. “Is this real? Or has this been happening inside my head?”
Dumbledore beamed at him, and his voice sounded loud and strong in Harry’s ears even though the bright mist was descending again, obscuring his figure.
“Of course it is happening inside your head, Harry, but why on earth should that mean that it is not real?””
As weird as it may seem, with all of the information and tidbits included in this book...this was the moment I knew that Chris Allaun absolutely “gets it”.
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Until Next Time, Pixilators!
Wishing You Peace, Love, & Pixie Dust
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