The Magic of Marie Laveau: Embracing the Spiritual Legacy of the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans

Explore the Life and Legacy of Marie Laveau, the Legendary “Pope of Voodoo”

Marie Laveau, a free woman of color, was a powerful figure in 19th-century New Orleans and remains one of the most iconic practitioners of the magical arts in American history. Celebrated in songs, films, and folklore, she continues to be a central figure in ghost tours and spiritual pilgrimages—her grave is one of the most visited in the United States.

Venerated by many and famously self-proclaimed as the “Pope of Voodoo,” Laveau has inspired acclaimed biographies, novels by Francine Prose and Jewell Parker Rhodes, and pop culture appearances in Marvel Comics and American Horror Story: Coven, where she was portrayed by Angela Bassett.

In this book, author Denise Alvarado delves into the history and mystery of Marie Laveau’s life and legacy. She offers an accessible introduction to New Orleans Voodoo—its roots, practices, and cultural significance—along with spells, prayers, rituals, recipes, and step-by-step instructions for building altars and crafting a traditional gris-gris amulet.

Paperback - 224 pages, English