Nice review of Persephone's life and relevant stories. Good advice for applying Persephone's power to today's issues to empower our lives.

I’m obsessed with all things Persephone. She is such an intriguing figure; Goddess of Spring & Queen of the Underworld. Though this book is short it is packed full of simple, straight-forward information. If you’re interested in Persephone I highly recommend this book.

Thank you to the Publisher and Netgalley for the advanced e-reader copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

I have reviewed several titles in the Pagan Portals series and am impressed at the quality of writings and the in depth approach taken by the authors to whatever the subject matter may be. Persephone: Practicing the Art of Personal Power by Robin Corak fulfills all of those statements with a bit more. As I write this the world is grasped in the fear and uncertainty of the COVID-19 virus. Many are feeling less than empowered and the transitions of dark and light creep in ever closer to a blending of cautious action and impatience that we have not progressed further.

With that being said, the timing of this book; one that takes the reader into the journey of claiming personal power couldn’t have been better played. We are treated to eight (8) chapters exploring the role of Persephone in many of her known guises as well as those less considered.

Robin Corak has crafted an exploration that includes myth, research and opportunity to employ techniques and ritual to foster within the reader a deeper understanding of this resilient and power goddess; and always keeping the goal as one of encouraging a similar path of Divine power for yourself. Additionally, journaling and the prompts that require a more reflective approach, tease out the bits of wisdom that already are seeding within as you find the points of resonance between Persephone and yourself.

Chapter 1: From Helpless Child to Powerful Woman sets the tone of what can be expected in this and future chapters. The title itself gives hope and the common space from which we all begin our “heroic” journey as the child who becomes the pawn in a much larger game play and what must be called into play to become the ultimate writer of how that story plays out. Robin takes us through the more traditional tales of Persephone and her abduction by Hades and the roles of the other gods/desses in what appears on first glance to be one of betrayal and submission. The thorough research and comparison of the many other versions of the myth, provide a basis for the reader to see perhaps another perspective of the tale; now Persephone being in charge of her destiny and not the victim. Much to think upon? A powerful conclusion to this chapter is offered in the form of a retelling of the myth- “Perspenone’s Story-Reclaimed”, noted as written from the perspective of the goddess and with a theme of empowerment.

The book continues with this beautifully interwoven underpinning of what we have heard as the myth and what we actually can learn when we are receptive to another intention. Chapter 2: The Eleusinian Mysteries provides insight into the background of this myth and as these are “mysteries” the hidden meanings and nuances. Chapter 3: Descent and Ascent gives the archetypal overlays of this and many of the myths. These considerations are brought forth in the citing of Joseph Campbell and in in so doing also bring the psycho-analytical nature of the work of empowerment into the forefront.

…By delving into (these) goddesses and their myths, we can begin to see patterns that may reflect our own lives and thus can help us predict future paths and pitfalls… This requires complete self-honesty and an in depth exploration of our own woundedness and the inner demons that haunt us…

Chapter 4: Persephone as Psychopomp and Chapter 5: Persephone and the Art of Discernment introduce us to Persephone as psychopomp and one of discernment in our own ascent from the underworld. Death and the crossing over into the realm of death require a masterful hand of calm, yet firm direction. Discernment requires the knowing of when and how to resurrect what has fallen to its death and how to bring that arising to a new space of power and transformation. These chapters weave the necessary mind set to embrace these tasks and undertake your own ushering through the shadow and rising into the light.

Chapter 6: Rituals for Persephone, Chapter 7: Forging the Path and Chapter 8: Persephone’s Feast fully engage the reader as having claimed the crown of personal power and provides all of the tools necessary to establish a regular and deep connection to Persephone and her power. A ritual for each half (dark and light) of the year and guided meditation of claiming the crown provide the ecstatic component. Epithets, correspondences and more provide pathways to access the archetypal energy of Persephone and recipes and food recommendations complete a full and informed journey mindful of the Greek pantheon and its specifics as well as those of this particular deity and her story.

Of note in the Conclusion is this statement, which sums up nicely the gifts to be gained by doing the work of self….

….If Persephone teaches us anything, it is that we must be willing to delve into our own inner Underworld in order to be liberated and find joy in the Spring of our rebirth. There is strength in vulnerability and there are vast treasures waiting to be found in the darkness…You too have the ability to let go of the fears that have held you back and sever ties with the things that no longer serve you….

Would I recommend?

I am always encouraging of any work that creates a template that is not simply transformative, but is actually rooted in work achieved and authenticity in its application. Persephone: Practicing the Art of Personal Power by Robin Corak stirs the desire to know more and in so doing provides the valuable lesson that all myths, gods/desses have so much more to offer in the telling of their stories if we are receptive and embrace all aspects of our being. The exercises, readings and citings are filled with seeds of Spring’s awakening and much like the Goddess herself, we are reminded that no journey is charmed; that hard work, tending and reaching into the underworld is necessary to allow for rebirth. If you are ready for that journey, than this is the book for you.

Reviewed by Robin Fennelly of PaganPages.Org
https://paganpages.org/emagazine/2020/04/15/book-review-pagan-portals-persephone-by-robin-corak/

I really liked this book. Knowing Persephone's story at face value, it is nice to delve deeper and to get a better understanding of the goddess. Would definitely read more of the Pagan Portals to learn more about the gods and goddesses.

I am sorry I did not read this within the timeframe that I was given. I wish I would have been able to as it sounded very interesting but life got in the way.

As a by-the-seat-of-your-pants pagan, I fluctuate in my daily activities and seasonal celebrations. Being an in-your-face religious person has never been my bag. I tend to keep to my own guides/Goddesses/Gods and vary very little from that comfortable place. So, when the opportunity to learn more about Persephone arose, I jumped. It was always my assumption that she was associated with dark and light, shadow and growth. And well, I wasn't far off.

Pagan Portals - Persephone was a well thought out guide for those wanting to dive more deeply into the myth of Persephone and included multiple guided meditations, journaling questions, rituals, bath oils, recipes, and divination tools.

While I didn't resonate with the continued intimation of the victim aspect, I do think the idea of owning one's previous 'happenings' (Yas, Queen sort of mentality). I do think the book has illuminated some aspects that I would like to pursue working with in the future.

*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*

A powerful tool to reclaim control, sovereignty and independence in our lives. The myth of Persephone sparks a light in every person who has felt controlled and bullied, and the author offers a complete image of how She and Her stories can help in today's world. I liked how simple and straight-forward it is!

I thought this book was a really useful and thought provoking guide to the Greek goddess Persephone looking at her dual roles as Goddess of Spring and Queen of the Underworld. It includes an in-depth review of her myth and what is known of the Eleusinian mysteries historically as well as chapters on the goddess's archetypal qualities, such as power and discernment, viewed through psychological self development lens. I liked that every chapter included guided meditations and journalling prompts to enable the reader to connect with their inner Persephone. The final chapters detailing different magickal ways of connecting with the goddess such as via food, making your own divination marbles and incense recipes were a lovely touch. This is an excellent and thorough guide, ideal for self reflection and self discovery.

Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity.
This is a enjoyable short read and very information about the Goddess Persephone. I enjoyed learning the history of this Goddess, her importance and learning rituals that relate to her. The author has kindly included recipes for incense, bath teas, and oils which are wonderful . Instructions in a divination system named Seeds of Wisdom are included for use in your home practice. For all who wish to explore this Goddess history and incorporate her into your daily practice I highly recommend this book.

My thanks to John Hunt Publishing/Moon Books for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘Pagan Portals - Persephone’ by Robin Corak in exchange for an honest review.

In this short book Robin Corak provides an introduction to the Greek Goddess Persephone, including variations on the myth and the importance of the Rites of Eleusis and the Underworld journey.

It is subtitled ‘Practicing the Art of Personal Power’ and includes a number of guided meditations, rituals, and journal prompts focusing on developing a relationship with Persephone.

There are also recipes for incense, bath teas, and anointing oils. She includes how to create a personal divination system named Persephone’s Seeds of Wisdom. Another chapter contains suggestions for creating a feast in Persephone’s honour; as might be expected there are pomegranates involved.

While I have not heard of Robin Corak before reading this, she appears to have a solid background in paganism and as a priestess. The book is well researched with references noted throughout.

It was definitely weighted towards practices rather than exploration of the myth. I did find the language used a little New Age though this is a minor niggle.

Overall, I felt this serves as a good addition to this popular series.

3.5 stars rounded up to 4.

Love it. Specifically I enjoyed the storytelling followed by journaling activities for engaging with the material. Having delved briefly into stories of Persephone as a goddess archetype I was interested to see how this book would expand on the topic. I wasn't expecting the writing activities and they won me over as they provided opportunities to contemplate the material and internalize the lessons of the Persephone archetype.

*I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review*

3.5
This is kind of a self-help book.
It comes with stories meant to empower you as a woman.
It includes journal prompts, meditations, rituals, and recipes to connect with Persephone, or your inner goddess.
It outlines Persephone's ancient story in views you've probably never seen it before.
But for me, I couldn't make the mental connections between light and dark, her taking power verse giving it, and me and my decisions.
For someone looking to add in some new feminine perspective and spirituality in their life, this could be a quick and useful tool to reference.
Thank you to John Hunt Publishing Ltd and NetGalley for the ARC..

This is a powerful book full of story and imagery and most of all, a beautiful way of bringing the stories of this goddess to life. I especially loved the retelling of the story from Persephone’s voice… I have never heard anything like that before and I have read a lot about the goddesses. Also, the guided imagery and journaling questions were especially helpful to me on this journey. I highly recommend this book to any woman who looked deeply into her life, or any man who cares about a woman who looked deeply into her life.

Thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for my honest review

Pagan Portals Persephone by Robin Corak
Book Review by Dawn Thomas

112 Pages
Publisher: John Hunt Publishing / Moon Books
Release Date: April 24, 2020

Health, Mind & Body, Religion & Spirituality

I thought I knew about Her but after reading this book, I have a new perspective. Although it is only about one hundred pages, it is full of information. At the end of each chapter are journal exercises that are thought provoking. There are guided meditations to work with Persephone and the Ancestors. There is a chapter on divination that is especially good. The directions to make your own divination seeds are easy to follow. I especially like the divination with the bay leaves.

The author did a wonderful job listing her references throughout the book. She did a thorough job with her research. I highly recommend this book to any This is an excellent book for anyone that works with or wants to work with Persephone. Plus, this is the perfect time of year to connect with Her.

Women are at a time where so many decisions are being shaped for them through policy. I think that this book allows an option for women who are struggling against this now. Corak offers Persephone an example for women who have experienced trauma in their past or who are dealing with feeling a loss of control now. The book has questions for journal entries and guided meditation to help people reclaim agency that may feel they have lost. By using the mythology of Persephone as the context for this, it allows a way to see how everyday struggles are mirrored even within the Goddess myth cycle. While I do not identify as Pagan I still find the use of the Goddess and mythology an empowering way to use meditation.

Great information about Persephone and her descent. Really interesting information about her and other information put in. Another good book from Pagan Portals.

Thankyou to NetGalley, John Hunt Publishing and the author, Robin Cook, for the opportunity to read an advanced readers copy of Pagan Portals - Persephone, in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
I thought this book was beautifully written with remarkable attention to detail. Very informative.

Thanks to NetGalley and John Hunt Publishing Ltd for an e-galley in exchange for an honest review.


This was a different direction for me in my reading experience as it was a very spiritual experience that incorporates the story of Persephone and gives it a more matriarchal perspective that the modern woman can connect with in examining darkness and light. There are prompts to encourage bullet journaling and meditation as well as connecting to the natural world around us.

I felt that this slim volume was informative, well laid out and was accompanied by a very positive message.




Goodreads review published 07/04/20

Expected publication 24/04/20

I enjoyed the deeper look into the myths of Persephone that this book has. The concept and intended direction of the novel was well-crafted. However, I wasn't a fan of the overall tone of the book. It just didn't quite sit right with me and made me enjoy the story a little less.

This is a well research guide for those wanting to dive more deeply into the myth of Persephone. Includes guided meditations, journaling prompts and some rituals for both summer and winter celebrating both the dark and the light aspects of the Goddess. Also included is the opportunity to connect through food with recipes - none of which are vegan. This is the perfect small book for those interested in individual Goddess worship.

*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC