Episode 712: Christine Cunningham Ashworth-Scott Cunningham The Path Taken

The iconic and renowned bestselling author Scott Cunningham (1953-1993) was the central figure in establishing Wicca in North America. His pioneering book Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner radically altered the practice of Wicca, enabling practitioners to self-initiate. Scott's books, especially his encyclopedias, remain popular today, years after his death. In recent years, Scott has also emerged as a celebrated queer icon, especially in the witchcraft world. Although so many people have come to Wicca and Paganism through his books, little is actually known about Scott Cunningham as a person and about his spiritual life.His little sister, Christine Cunningham Ashworth, seeks to remedy that. Her book is offered as a gift to all those influenced by Cunningham's work. Christine grew up with him, laughed with him, learned with him, fought with him, and shared joys and sorrows. This book is not a biography as much as it is a memoir. The author writes about their childhood, gives a peek into their parents’ lives, and brings to life what it was like to grow up in the Cunningham household. She explores the trajectory of Scott's magical path and affirms his legacy. She shares family photos and lifts the veil from Scott's life.