Magic Forums

Okay I been thinking for quite a while know and keep on reading many books on 101 about Wicca and this might sound a silly question to you guys but it been stuck on my head. So here it goes: traditionally the athame has to have a black handle so when closing the circle the black handle absorb some of the energy. Now what if the athame handle is made out of wood. Would it still work or it really doesn't matter as long as you feel comfortable?

I just ordered a book on amazon it is called "The Mask of the God: Primitive Mythology" by Joseph Campbell. In all the books I read so far it always recommended this one. Right now I want to study about the Gods to see which one I like because of course you guys know they mention about the deity and I don't want to rush it so fast and call any gods who I don't know to call on when casting a circle. So I was wondering if I read about the myths of the gods would I find one that I will feel comfortable to call on them. So tell me your opinions if that idea sounds good or not. And if you know any other goods books to read about more on myth.