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Sources for Rune Study

© Dan Gronitz

I thought that I make take a little time this month to talk about the different sources and references that you can use to learn more about the runes. Two questions that I get asked a lot are, “Where can I learn more about the runes?” and “What books can you recommend to me?” So I figured that it might be a good idea letting people know what books are out there to help you learn more in your study of the runes.

Now before I begin I just want to say that the books and references that I’m going to put down here are in no way the best books for you. These are simply the books that I have found helpful in my study of the runes. Some people have a set idea in their minds about what the runes are and if an author differs from their own personal view, the consider the book to be no good. However if you keep an open mind and really want to learn something then these are good books and references.

First we’ll start off with a few good rune books:

“The Complete Illustrated Guide to Runes” Nigel Pennick © Element Books Limited 1999 (Put out by Barnes and Noble).
Probably one of the best books out there that deals with a great deal of sets. It not only focuses on the Elder Futhark, but just about all other major rune sets. It also has a good history section, talks about the runes in mythology, shows you how to cast, and even has meanings for all the different rune sets. This book is really a must have for rune casters, at least I think so anyway.

“Runelore” Edred Thorsson ©1987
This book is excellent if you want a good rune history book. It contains more than just the history of the runes, but I believe that the history section is its strong point.

“Rune Power” Kenneth Meadows © Element Books Limited 1996 (text © 1996 Kenneth Meadows).
An interesting book that deals a lot with the divination side of the runes. Meadows brings in a lot of magical elements for the runes to play off of, such as tree connections, associations for different times of the day, rune talismans, and much more.

I know that’s a short list for books, but once you start with those books and sneak a peek at the books those authors used in their research, you’ll be WELL set on your way. Now let’s move on to some good references. References probably isn’t the best word to use here, I simply mean other sources that are great for rune exploration. Such as certain saga, stories, myths and so on. They are great sources of information and without them we may not know as much about the runes as we do.

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