RUNE BOOKS THAT SHARE WISDOM FROM THE ELDER FUTHARK
Written and illustrated by Isar and May Oakmund, our rune books explore the Elder Futhark, bind runes, and Norse symbolism with accuracy and imagination. Blending history, mythology, and magical tradition, they go far beyond a simple reference guide. If you’re looking for the best books on runes to start your journey, a Viking rune book for artistic or tattoo inspiration, or a guide for ritual and divination, these volumes combine knowledge with creativity.
READ THE RUNES
These books aren’t just for study; they’re fuel for design, ritual, and meaningful mark-making. Whether you’re picking up your very first rune book or adding to a seasoned practice, these rune books will guide your way.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT RUNE BOOK
At Northern Black, our books combine archaeological research, myth, and lived practice to ensure what you read is both authentic and inspiring.
RUNE BOOKS FOR BEGINNERS
If you’re new to runes, it can feel overwhelming to know where to begin. Our Norse rune books guide you step by step through the 24 Elder Futhark runes, giving you the stories, meanings, and symbols behind each one. With a balance of ancient context and modern application, they’re written so anyone can start reading and working with runes without sacrificing depth or accuracy. These are among the best books on runes for building a solid foundation in this Nordic tradition.
We recommend you start with Runes, Sigils & Bind Runes or The Runes: Reading, Casting and Understanding The Elder Futhark.
RUNE BOOKS FOR TATTOO INSPIRATION & SYMBOLISM
Runes and bind runes have long been used as marks of identity, magic, and memory. For tattoo artists and designers, our books provide hundreds of unique illustrations created by Isar Oakmund and May Oakmund — many of which are not found anywhere else. From authentic Viking rune book references to never-before-seen runic numeral systems, you’ll find endless inspiration for meaningful designs. These resources are ideal for anyone wanting to bring runes into body art while avoiding generic or inauthentic symbols.
For the best value, we recommend the Rune Book Bundle, which includes Runes, Sigils & Bind Runes, and Love, Lust, and Loss. Together, they offer hundreds of bind runes, sigils, and runic layouts perfect for tattoo design. Available in print or digital.
RUNE BOOKS FOR RITUAL AND SPIRITUAL PRACTICE
For practitioners, runes are not just symbols on a page; they are tools of transformation. Something you carve, call, or carry into ritual. Our books show practical ways to bring the Elder Futhark, sigils, and bind runes into ceremony, meditation, and divination. Designed for new and experienced rune-workers, these texts honour Norse tradition while giving you practical ways to integrate runes into modern spiritual practice.
For ritual use, we recommend pairing Love, Lust, and Loss: A Collection of Bind Runes with a rune set. This allows you to work with the symbols and their physical forms in ceremony and divination.
If you’d like to explore more about the runes before choosing, read our detailed guide: Runes, Sigils, and Bind Runes FAQs.
NORTHERN BLACK’S BOOKS ABOUT RUNES: FAQs
Are these rune books suitable for beginners?
Yes. Our rune books are written with clear explanations of the Elder Futhark runes, making them accessible to newcomers while still offering depth for experienced readers.
Can these rune books be used for tattoo design ideas?
Absolutely. With hundreds of original bind runes and sigil illustrations created by Isar and May Oakmund, these volumes are among the best books on runes for tattoo inspiration and symbolic design. For the widest selection, see the Rune Book Bundle.
Do the books explain the meanings behind Viking rune symbols?
Yes. Each Norse rune book explores the symbolism, history, and magical applications of the runes, so you gain both the meaning and cultural context of each symbol.
Do these rune books include guides for rituals or divination?
Yes. Our books provide guidance on incorporating runes and bind runes into ritual practice, meditation, and divination, offering tools for modern use while respecting tradition.
Which rune books are best for spiritual practice?
For ritual and spiritual work, we suggest Love, Lust and Loss: A Collection of Bind Runes. It explores taboo subjects, healing, grief, and relationships, making it a powerful guide for spiritual application.
Can I use these rune books to create my own bind runes?
Yes. Each book not only provides finished bind runes but also guides you in creating your own for personal, magical, or artistic use.
Are your rune books based on authentic Norse and Viking traditions?
Yes. Northern Black stands apart by prioritising historical accuracy and cultural respect. Our books are based on the Elder Futhark, Icelandic traditions, and archaeological sources.
Do these books cover Elder Futhark or other rune systems?
Our primary focus is the 24 Elder Futhark runes. Some books also explore Icelandic sigils and bind runes, but Elder Futhark is the core system throughout.
Are the rune books physical copies or digital editions?
Both. We offer printed physical editions, as well as eBooks for easy access on your device. Each product page specifies the available formats.
Which rune book is the most popular in your collection?
Our most popular title is Runes, Sigils & Bind Runes, which offers a comprehensive introduction and a wealth of designs that appeal to beginners, artists, and practitioners alike.
Do your books make good gifts?
Yes, they make thoughtful gifts for anyone interested in Norse mythology, Viking history, rune study, tattoo design, or modern spiritual practice, and they look magnificent, too.