Jan Fries has done a fine job with this work. The book is sub-titled "A Manual of Freestyle Shamanism," and to anyone in the know that seems to fit the books nicely. This work is very much for working magicians who are not afraid to leave their comfort zones. Fries has exercises in every chapter of the book corresponding to the philosophy covered, a rarity in occult works these days. This book is an important text that I believe all modern practitioners should have a copy of, if not for themselves, for potential students. This work will save the would be occultist YEARS of sifting through booshwa to get the facts about magic. In regard to this, the section on sigil magic alone is worth the price of the book. If one truly wishes to the deep transformations that are meant to be brought about by occult workings, this is perhaps one of the best places to start.
As an aside I must mention that this work will not be for those searching for "traditional" forms of shamanism, primitivism or "neo-shamanism." Rather the work is a mix of psychology, NLP, trance, chaos magick, and shamanic technique that blend together to form superb practice. I recommend this book highly to all seekers on the path. I do not recommend that the practices employed be used in a group working, unless all have been working together strictly using said practices. Rather this book works at the core of the occult, personal transformation. Also, the work makes no religious claims or clarifications, another rarity in occult works. This book can be used by a magician, witch, sorcerer, etc. of any stripe. It is so non-judgemental about individual beliefs and practices that it can even easily be employed by an atheistic occultist, and yes they do exist. The only reason that I have not given this book a four star rating is that I do disagree with the author on a few points made in regard to tradition, but otherfise a most excellent work.
Ryan