Christopher Penczak, ever heard or read him? Options

My local, (that is the only one with in 100 mile radius) occult bookstore keeps suggesting this guy in their newsletter. I researched on Amazon, but there were only two reviews for his book (Ascension Magick) and both were glowing.

It depends on your focus. Christopher's bio blurbs mention him as an "eclectic witch," and if you identify with that path I think he has some good material available. At least, judging from my research of his writing, and skimming his books. He was also interviewed in a Thelema podcast I recently listening to, and I like a lot of his ideas overall.

That said, from personal experience I'm really enjoying his book Instant Magick. I see why he can be considered eclectic; he has a background understanding in general occult theory and CM, and he is not afraid to apply some of those ideas to what might be described as daily or street magick. Chaotes might get some good ideas from this book. He's also got some stuff on energy in there (I believe Christopher practices and teaches reiki), and generally, I'm finding it a fun book to work with. If you're looking for really esoteric material, you won't find it there, but for what it is, it's a good book. (Despite the hokey title!)

My impression is that if you are interested in paganism or learning about witchcraft, his Temple series (Inner Temple of Witchcraft, etc.) would be worth checking out. But be careful, I think his books tend to overlap. For example, I've read about people talking about the similarities between Instant Magick and the earlier City Magick (if I got the title right). And I looked at his book on shamanistic practices yesterday in the store, which didn't offer enough new material for me to want to buy it.

I hope that helps. Post back here if you do find any of his books helpful to you.