Born in New York City, JUDIKA ILLES's interest in the metaphysical began with her first tarot card reading at age six. A lifetime pursuing and researching that interest ensued: astrology, mythology, Kabbalah, the Egyptian mysteries as well as spiritual, magical and healing traditions from all over Earth. She is a spell collector, fortune teller, psychic practitioner and spirit worker, certified aromatherapy consultant, independent scholar, writer and teacher. Her spiritual vision incorporates the application of Earth's ancient magical and therapeutic traditions for the fulfillment of modern needs and desires. Illes is the author of the Element Encyclopedia of Spirits and the Encyclopedia of Witchcraft (both were One Spirit Book Club Selections), and Pure Magic.