The Book of Shadows

  The Craft was originally oral in basis. However, with teh start of
the persucutions, Witches and covens were forced to go into hiding. This
created a problem, the covens started to loose touch with each other. 
A solution was that Covens started to write rituals down, not all rituals
were written, just the basic ones. Since the covens had to meet in secret
or - "in the shadows ". This book of rites was known as The Book of Shadows.
In the start of this, there was usually only one book of rituals per coven.
Individual Witches were known to keep books or diaries of notes on their
specialty (e.g. Astrology;herballore;etc). But the Book of Shadows was the
only book of rituals kept for there coven. This book was kept in safety by
the priest or Priestess. This insured that it did not fall into the hands
of those who were antagonstic to the Craft.
  In recent years it has become common practice for Witches to keep their
own Book of Shadows. These books can contain everything from the basic
beliefs and practices to all of the rituals. It is possible to buy already
bound, hard cover books with blank pages at most statonary or book stores.
However, you may want to consider making your own Book of Shadows. This
can be done by taking pages of parchment, leather thong or cord for binding,
and wood that may be burned or carved for teh cover. If you have a tallent
for this sort of thing, you will find this to be a very rewarding project.
  I advise you to keep your book of shadows in a secure place. All materials
should be blessed and cleansed prior to assembly.
  You may construct or buy your book as you wish. I have seen some very
elaborately decorated pages, including illuminated lettering. Of course if
you prefer simplicity that is alright too. Your book should reflect YOU.
One point worth bearing in mind-the book is to be used; the rituals to be
read in the circle. Do not make the writing so elaborate, that, in the
flickering candlelight, you can't read what is written!