Book Review: A World full of Gods

4 out of 5
John Michael Greer, A World Full of Gods: An Inquiry into Polytheism
Anyone sick and tired of pagan how-to books will find Greer’s A World Full of Gods a delightful read. Rather than laying out beliefs step-by-step, Greer presents an in-depth and mature discussion of the draws of polytheism and gives logical and theological reasons why people familiar with monotheism may still choose polytheism as their belief of choice.

Greer goes beyond the common understanding of the pagan community – that we pray to gods to get stuff - and discusses instead the much more complex reciprocal relationship many polytheists have with their gods. Worship and religion is not just about pleasing the higher powers to get what we want or avoid smiting. Rather it is recognition through giving of what has been granted in the past and will be provided in the future.

A World Full of Gods is a survey work addressing in the broadest sense all polytheists, although the focus is on modern Western pagans and, to a lesser extent, the cultures that most strongly influence them. When Greer wishes to speak only of Wicca or Druidry or Asatru, he clearly states it, but most of the book addresses the polytheistic outlook in general. Thus, this is a perfectly appropriate read for a wide Neopagan audience.

Monotheists might also find the book useful in trying to better understand the reasoning behind polytheism. However, Greer does devote a considerable amount of time arguing against monotheism, which might turn off non-likeminded readers. Nevertheless, it remains an excellent, well thought out and well written investigation into polytheism that will make a worthy addition to a serious Neopagan’s bookshelf.

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