Žítkovské bohyně lidová magie na Moravských Kopanicích

This book offers a unique and personal insight into the folk healers known as "goddesses" of Žítková. The author undertook direct fieldwork in the early 1990s, personally meeting the last two living goddesses and experiencing their rituals and incantations firsthand. This direct engagement provides an authentic perspective, complemented by interviews with local residents and relatives in later years. Readers interested in folk healing, traditional practices, herbalism, and the intersection of the spiritual and the earthly will find the subject matter compelling. The book is enhanced by photographs, a historical overview, and detailed accounts, making it a valuable resource for those drawn to the topic.

However, the book is an expanded version of the author's 1993 diploma thesis, and its academic value is questioned due to its age. Critics note that the research and analytical frameworks used are largely outdated, failing to incorporate developments in the study of magic and healing practices since its original publication. The author's research methods, particularly the use of hidden audio recordings, sparked controversy, with some feeling her defense of this practice is insufficient. Stylistically, some readers find the writing uneven, repetitive in parts, and suffering from numerous proofreading errors, including issues with punctuation and grammar. Specific omissions are noted, such as a lack of follow-up on prophecies or deeper engagement with intriguing theories mentioned within the text.

Ultimately, this book serves more as an interesting historical artifact and a personal account rather than a definitive contemporary academic work. Its publication was partly motivated by a desire to offer a factual counterpoint to a popular fictional work on the same subject. It will appeal most to readers with a strong existing interest in the Žítková goddesses, local folklore, or historical ethnographical accounts, particularly those seeking a direct, personal narrative from the field. However, those looking for a modern, rigorous academic analysis or a polished literary experience may find it falls short. It is recommended for enthusiasts of the specific subject matter who value personal testimony and historical context over contemporary scholarship or refined prose.