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Tarot: Connect With Yourself, Develop Your Intuition, Live Mindfully
Find out how to customize, interpret and apply the wisdom of tarot to enhance every area of your life - your career, finances, relationships, and more.
Get to know each card in detail - meet The Magician, who encourages you to trust in your abilities; connect with the nurturing instincts of The Empress; feel the confidence of The Chariot - and explore the meanings of each card for you.
Discover how tarot readings can illuminate your unique path and lead to tangible, positive actions that you can apply day to day.
Let Tarot guide you on a journey of self-knowledge and self-fulfilment.
224 pages, Hardcover
Published October 1, 2020
159 people are currently reading
722 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
February 22, 2023
Easy to read and good for beginners, too.
It's also a good reference book for the medially experienced people.
I enjoyed the style of the Tarot deck, that she used.
A clean 4 Star Rating.
It's also a good reference book for the medially experienced people.
I enjoyed the style of the Tarot deck, that she used.
A clean 4 Star Rating.
August 18, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and DK books for an eArc in exchange for an honest review
This is a really beautifully illustrated book that is also organized quite well. It includes illustrations of each card and. both upright and reverse interpretations interpretation . It also provides representations of potential readings and spreads
This is a really beautifully illustrated book that is also organized quite well. It includes illustrations of each card and. both upright and reverse interpretations interpretation . It also provides representations of potential readings and spreads
October 29, 2020
Lately I have enjoyed looking at tarot cards of all kinds. During quarantine, it's just been something interesting for me to learn about. Tarot cards can be a useful tool but also a fun way to relieve stress for me. It's learning something new that unique, not necessarily the norm and really cool.
Tarot by Tina Gong was a great resource for learning about tarot cards (especially as a newbie!). If you're looking for some information and wanting to grow a little as well, this book can be a fun tool. There's some history, there's suggestions about tarot cards and their connection with mindfulness, explanations of the major arcana.
Honestly, this was a really cool read and I really enjoyed it! It's something new and different for me and it's super informative.
Four out of five stars.
Thank you to NEtGalley and DK for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
Tarot by Tina Gong was a great resource for learning about tarot cards (especially as a newbie!). If you're looking for some information and wanting to grow a little as well, this book can be a fun tool. There's some history, there's suggestions about tarot cards and their connection with mindfulness, explanations of the major arcana.
Honestly, this was a really cool read and I really enjoyed it! It's something new and different for me and it's super informative.
Four out of five stars.
Thank you to NEtGalley and DK for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
July 30, 2025
I have used almost every single dissection of each card at least once, including all other texts and don’t see myself putting down this book. It has spun me into a new obsession with tarot and reading for my friends and loved ones. It is endlessly fascinating and I highly recommend picking up this book. Gong provides deeply inquisitive prompts, strong/unique lessons and a lot of food for thought.
September 27, 2020
This is an excellent resource for beginner and intermediate tarot readers. There is a very brief explanation of the history of tarot and how the cards connect to our intuition before the book dives into specifics. An abundance of spreads are given that cover a wide variety of themes (relationships, work, decision making, goal setting, etc.). I especially loved the charts the author included showing the various ways a three-card spread can be used. Many of these options I haven’t seen or thought of before.
The majority of the book analyzes each tarot card and gives keywords for both upright and reversal positions. What I really liked about this guide over the others I have used in the past is that each card description is broken up into the following sections: interpretation, reflection, and action. While most tarot books and websites cover the interpretation and reflection aspects of each card, I have not seen a resource that also gives suggested action steps to take in accordance with the card. The author provides this information for both upright and reversals.
One last thing makes this a must-have resource for tarot readers: the real-life readings that are sprinkled throughout the book. There are several spreads that are shown along with the context behind the reading. This gives the reader a chance to try and read the cards themselves and then compare their interpretation with the author’s. Obviously every reading will be different, but I appreciated this opportunity as a novice reader to “check” myself to see if I was on the right track. Overall, Tarot by Tina Gong would be an excellent addition to any tarot reader’s bookshelf!
Thanks to the author, DK Publishers, and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The majority of the book analyzes each tarot card and gives keywords for both upright and reversal positions. What I really liked about this guide over the others I have used in the past is that each card description is broken up into the following sections: interpretation, reflection, and action. While most tarot books and websites cover the interpretation and reflection aspects of each card, I have not seen a resource that also gives suggested action steps to take in accordance with the card. The author provides this information for both upright and reversals.
One last thing makes this a must-have resource for tarot readers: the real-life readings that are sprinkled throughout the book. There are several spreads that are shown along with the context behind the reading. This gives the reader a chance to try and read the cards themselves and then compare their interpretation with the author’s. Obviously every reading will be different, but I appreciated this opportunity as a novice reader to “check” myself to see if I was on the right track. Overall, Tarot by Tina Gong would be an excellent addition to any tarot reader’s bookshelf!
Thanks to the author, DK Publishers, and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 17, 2023
this is exactly what I was looking for! a polished and concise introduction to tarot with helpful prompts and example readings. these dk guides are really attractive and helpful - definitely will continue to use them as a starting point.
March 6, 2021
Beautiful, well-organized book covering meanings of tarot cards, spreads, and ways to create your own spreads. Loved the color pictures of individual cards as well as the sample spreads for reference learning.
January 24, 2024
Le recomiendo este libro a cualquier persona que quiera leer el tarot desde una perspectiva de auto conocimiento e introspección. Es un manual súper completo, detallado y muy fácil de leer para poder hacerse tiradas a uno mismo. Me parece que es una introducción bacan para alguien que quiera empezar a adentrarse a las cartas
November 12, 2020
When I buy a tarot book I’m looking for in depth analysis on individual cards and meanings that work within the deck. I found the details of this books to be well thought out.
January 6, 2022
Very good book! Not perfect, but I really like the way they approached card interpretations, and the production is lovely. Huge bummer that there weren’t individual illustrations for each minor arcana (apart from the Marseilles style). Not my Top beginner’s recommendation, but certainly worth it if you’re looking to add quality to your collection or giving as a gift.
September 26, 2022
This book is well suited for use as a reference while reading tarot. I liked the formatting - it is easy to navigate when looking for a specific card, and each page is clearly laid out with both upright and reverse meanings. Plus, the artwork is soft and beautiful.
October 25, 2020
I am always nervous when going to read something of a higher power. However this book instantly puts you at ease. So easily explains tarot card readings. Something I have always wondered about. Highly recommend. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 19, 2020
Having picked up Tarot cards for the first time a few months ago, I’ve been devouring as much as I can about the practice in hopes to learn as much as I can. There’s a certain mysticism around it, understandably, but it shouldn’t be feared, just used as a tool or extension of our energy.
This is quite a find for those who want to learn more and extend their knowledge into Tarot.
Thank you to Tina Gong, DK, and Netgalley for the ARC!
This is quite a find for those who want to learn more and extend their knowledge into Tarot.
Thank you to Tina Gong, DK, and Netgalley for the ARC!
November 18, 2020
Tarot by Tina Gong
9781465499387
224 Pages
Publisher: DK
Release Date: October 6, 2020
Non-Fiction, Crafts & Hobbies, Religion & Spirituality, Divination, New Age
I am always on the hunt for new books on Tarot and was happy to find this little book. The cover image grabbed me right away and did not let go of my attention. I had to begin reading it right away. The colors and images from the cover continue through the book. The book is divided into several sections:
Reading Tarot
Tarot Spreads
The Major Arcana
The Minor Arcana
Real-Life Readings
The book begins with a short history of Tarot and its different uses through time. I never thought of Tarot as a psychological tool or a way to be more mindful but the more I thought about it I completely agree.
I love the breakdown she gives in the anatomy of the deck section. She shows how different Major Arcana cards fall into the categories of conscious, unconscious and super conscious. I like that she included numerology and the elements into the definitions of the cards. This helps the reader better interpret the meaning of the individual cards. With the court cards, the author lists a focus, event and action. I have not seen this included before in other books on the Tarot. This certainly is very handy information to have on hand when learning the cards.
She provides many options for the three-card spreads which include daily check-in, decision-making, guidance and evaluations, and goal progress. Each layout has many possible meanings for the three card positions. For the other card spreads, she includes the classic Celtic Cross and Zodiac. She then follows those up with relationship, work themed, and spiritual spreads.
The bulk of the book is dedicated to the descriptions of the individual cards. This includes interpretation, reflection and action for upright and reversed positions. If you are beginner working with Tarot or someone that would like deeper meanings of the cards, you will definitely get value out of this book. I know I am going to refer to it whenever I use my cards.
9781465499387
224 Pages
Publisher: DK
Release Date: October 6, 2020
Non-Fiction, Crafts & Hobbies, Religion & Spirituality, Divination, New Age
I am always on the hunt for new books on Tarot and was happy to find this little book. The cover image grabbed me right away and did not let go of my attention. I had to begin reading it right away. The colors and images from the cover continue through the book. The book is divided into several sections:
Reading Tarot
Tarot Spreads
The Major Arcana
The Minor Arcana
Real-Life Readings
The book begins with a short history of Tarot and its different uses through time. I never thought of Tarot as a psychological tool or a way to be more mindful but the more I thought about it I completely agree.
I love the breakdown she gives in the anatomy of the deck section. She shows how different Major Arcana cards fall into the categories of conscious, unconscious and super conscious. I like that she included numerology and the elements into the definitions of the cards. This helps the reader better interpret the meaning of the individual cards. With the court cards, the author lists a focus, event and action. I have not seen this included before in other books on the Tarot. This certainly is very handy information to have on hand when learning the cards.
She provides many options for the three-card spreads which include daily check-in, decision-making, guidance and evaluations, and goal progress. Each layout has many possible meanings for the three card positions. For the other card spreads, she includes the classic Celtic Cross and Zodiac. She then follows those up with relationship, work themed, and spiritual spreads.
The bulk of the book is dedicated to the descriptions of the individual cards. This includes interpretation, reflection and action for upright and reversed positions. If you are beginner working with Tarot or someone that would like deeper meanings of the cards, you will definitely get value out of this book. I know I am going to refer to it whenever I use my cards.
October 10, 2020
Really well written and comprehensive! I found the explanations and insight easy to follow and understand. If you are interested in Tarot this is an excellent resource and I highly recommend it!
I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
August 31, 2020
* I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review *
This is a great addition to any tarot bookshelf, and it is especially great for a tarot newbie. I know that I say that about a lot of intro to tarot books, but I wouldn’t say that if it weren’t a truly good intro to tarot book. In fact, this is the kind of book I’d have loved to have access to when I was new to it. However, I am also a firm believer that the cards and their meanings are ever-evolving to adapt to the modern word — so you’re never too advanced to take a refresher. The author of this book also runs Labyrinthos, one of the most reliable tarot reference sites, as well as the companion app, both of which I highly recommend. As such, this book is like having the info from the site and the app distilled into one handy reference guide. It is extremely well organized and navigates intuitively — you can see where the authors wireframing skills have come into the flow of the book and that is a very refreshing change. I also enjoyed that the spreads are not confined to the end of the book, but rather, interspersed throughout. Not only do you get major/minor arcana breakdowns, but you also get as much page space devoted to reversed cards, and how they are not necessarily negative or strictly the inverse of the cards upright meaning. The illustrations for each card are also lovely, sleek and clean images that depart from the traditional RWS decks imagery — also refreshing, because the images leave more up to what the reader brings to the deck. The figures are rendered in silhouette, so while many are clearly gendered, overall they are more inclusive than your average deck because they’re subject to how the reader chooses to fill in the details. Likewise, many traditional card meanings are expanded on, reinvented, or redefined for a modern tarot reader performing readings for themselves and/or a more diverse cross-section of querants, which is also refreshing. This is a beautiful tarot reference book that has a lot to offer readers and tarot enthusiasts at any level of experience, and it’s especially friendly to a new reader, with a welcoming tone that invites you to learn the skill and integrate tarot reading into your daily life as a meditative practice and an exercise in mindfulness.
This is a great addition to any tarot bookshelf, and it is especially great for a tarot newbie. I know that I say that about a lot of intro to tarot books, but I wouldn’t say that if it weren’t a truly good intro to tarot book. In fact, this is the kind of book I’d have loved to have access to when I was new to it. However, I am also a firm believer that the cards and their meanings are ever-evolving to adapt to the modern word — so you’re never too advanced to take a refresher. The author of this book also runs Labyrinthos, one of the most reliable tarot reference sites, as well as the companion app, both of which I highly recommend. As such, this book is like having the info from the site and the app distilled into one handy reference guide. It is extremely well organized and navigates intuitively — you can see where the authors wireframing skills have come into the flow of the book and that is a very refreshing change. I also enjoyed that the spreads are not confined to the end of the book, but rather, interspersed throughout. Not only do you get major/minor arcana breakdowns, but you also get as much page space devoted to reversed cards, and how they are not necessarily negative or strictly the inverse of the cards upright meaning. The illustrations for each card are also lovely, sleek and clean images that depart from the traditional RWS decks imagery — also refreshing, because the images leave more up to what the reader brings to the deck. The figures are rendered in silhouette, so while many are clearly gendered, overall they are more inclusive than your average deck because they’re subject to how the reader chooses to fill in the details. Likewise, many traditional card meanings are expanded on, reinvented, or redefined for a modern tarot reader performing readings for themselves and/or a more diverse cross-section of querants, which is also refreshing. This is a beautiful tarot reference book that has a lot to offer readers and tarot enthusiasts at any level of experience, and it’s especially friendly to a new reader, with a welcoming tone that invites you to learn the skill and integrate tarot reading into your daily life as a meditative practice and an exercise in mindfulness.
September 26, 2020
As a first introduction to tarot, I really liked this book. It’s beautifully illustrated and makes me feel empowered to use tarot readings to make good choices about the challenges in my life.
Full review here.
Full review here.
September 23, 2020
Beautifully illustrated with a simple, clean layout and helpful information. I liked the sections on the numbers (regardless of suit) and the journey of The Fool. Some good reading tips along with "real life" reading stories as examples.
August 18, 2020
Labyrinthos is one of my favorite online resources for Tarot online. The available education is extremely helpful and this book is just another great tool Tina Gong has provided for those learning Tarot. Beautifully organized and includes representations of potential readings and spreads. The cards depicted are lovely for those unfamiliar with them. They are different from Rider-Waite illustrations so if youre looking for those, then the card descriptions will still be relevant (only the images will be different). I did find that the break down of individual cards on the Labyrinthos site is slightly more detailed than the ones in the book, but this abbreivation might not matter to you. It's probably the perfect amount if information for most people and the book gives readers a chance to explore other elements of Tarot info which isnt on the site, which is nice. I loved adding this book to my collection of tarot resources and recommend exploring it.
August 19, 2020
This is an absolutely wonderful resource books on reading tarot cards! It was easy to understand and well organized. It was packed with illustrations and diagrams on reading the cards in their reverse and upright formations, as well as how to place the cards. I have always been intrigued by Tarot cards and the reading of them, but was always a bit intimidated. This definitely helped make sense of the different aspects and I cannot wait to try out what I have learned once I buy a deck. I definitely recommend this to anyone wanting to learn more on reading Tarot cards!
Disclosure: I received a complimentary eARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes. I'd like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me this opportunity!
Disclosure: I received a complimentary eARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes. I'd like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me this opportunity!
August 19, 2020
What a wonderful resource book! It's a wonderfully illustrated book and well organized. The author includes illustrations of each card and both their upright and reverse interpretations. I enjoyed how it provided an excellent representation of various readings and spreads. Labyrinthos is one of my go-to websites for information and learning with respect to Tarot. I also personally own two decks but the author. I am thrilled to be able to add this book to my resources and will use it often.
I would like to thank Tina Gong, DK and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
I would like to thank Tina Gong, DK and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
September 4, 2020
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for a digital ARC of this title, in exchange for my honest review. I enjoyed this book, feeling that it gives a light, positive intro into Tarot. If you are someone who gets bogged down in high detail explanations of the major and minor arcana, are confused about what layouts to use and why, this is the book for you. I especially loved the beautiful illustrations and the actual examples of readings. Very helpful. A book you'll reach for again and again.
August 21, 2020
When I was young I picked up a Tarot card deck and did readings. The funny thing is, many of the readings were right on point. All I did was read from the description of the cards that came with the pack! Though I have put them away, this made me pull them back out and give them another go. Beautiful and informational - helps one to better be acquainted with the Tarot. Thanks to NetGalley for this wonderful ARC.
January 13, 2021
This is a gorgeous Tarot book. It gives you input and descriptions and guidance on interpreting every card in the deck. My only issue was that it did not come with a deck?! The artwork on the cards in the book as they are fully illustrated are absolutely gorgeous. I can't fathom why this isn't a set. That being said I have no regrets using this book to review and learn and for deeper guidance on the cards that I do have.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC of Tarot, this is my honest review.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC of Tarot, this is my honest review.
August 22, 2020
If you are truly ready to open yourself to Tarot, this book is a great resource to help you get started, or to strengthen your existing start. I have long used Tarot to help guide me and I wish this book at been available when I first started. This is a work of art that you will treasure and reference for years to come.
August 23, 2020
An excellent guide to tarot reading, a few new card spreads and a more modern take on chard interpretations.
Read
December 14, 2020this is a really gorgeous collection on Tarot that's actually informative and perfect for a beginner or a seasoned user looking for a refresher course. the art is stunning!
February 4, 2024
Increíble. 10/10. Amamosssss.
La información se explica de una manera muy clara. La estética es preciosa. No soy muy minimalista, pero las cartas son amazing.
La información se explica de una manera muy clara. La estética es preciosa. No soy muy minimalista, pero las cartas son amazing.
January 16, 2021
Description:
Find out how to customize, interpret, and apply the wisdom of tarot to enhance every area of your life - your career, finances, relationships, and more.
Get to know each card in detail - meet The Magician, who encourages you to trust in your abilities; connect with the nurturing instincts of The Empress; feel the confidence of The Chariot - and explore the meanings of each card for you.
Discover how tarot readings can illuminate your unique path and lead to tangible, positive actions that you can apply day to day.
Let Tarot guide you on a journey of self-knowledge and self-fulfillment
Contents:
Forword
Tarot Through the Ages
Tarot and Mindfulness
Reading Tarot
- The Anatomy of the Deck
- The Major Arcana
- The Minor Arcana and Numerology
- The Suits and the Elements
- The Court Cards
- Reversals
- How to Read the Cards
Tarot Spreads:
- Three-card Spreads
- Classic Spreads
- Relationship Spreads
- Work Spreads
- Spiritual Spreads
- Creating Your Own Spread
The Major Arcana
The Minor Arcana
Real-Life Readings
- Celtic cross
- Celtic cross
- Celtic Cross
- Relationship Dynamics
- New Venture
- Conflict Resolution
- Relationship Dynamics
- Self-Care
- Dream Interpretation
Index
Acknowledgements
Subjects:
Tarot.
Mindfulness (Psychology)
Reactions:
The illustrations in the book are beautiful but it slightly strays away from the Rider Waite deck. The illustrations are similar but difference is enough change the original interpretations and meanings of the cards. If you are picky about the original meanings, you may want to look for another book that uses the "Rider Waite" deck as their examples. For example, the author removes some of the esoteric symbols found on the "Rider Waite" deck which are not found in the example deck she uses throughout the book. Also, another example how the author takes some creativity liberties is found in her interpretation of the the "Fool" card where the author refers the Fool as "She", which I found to be an interesting interpretation of the Fool card. Normally in the Rider Waite deck the Fool card is androgynous which could represent both genders, instead of just the female.
However, I am still curious what was is the name of the Tarot deck she uses in her examples because the author does not specify what type of Tarot deck she uses. However, it looks very similar to the "Rider-Waite "deck, but she does not use "Rider-Waite" deck illustrations for her examples.
Also, there is one typo on the book on page 14 where the author refers the "Magician" card to the "Strength" card. But that typo is minor. Overall, 3 Stars!
Find out how to customize, interpret, and apply the wisdom of tarot to enhance every area of your life - your career, finances, relationships, and more.
Get to know each card in detail - meet The Magician, who encourages you to trust in your abilities; connect with the nurturing instincts of The Empress; feel the confidence of The Chariot - and explore the meanings of each card for you.
Discover how tarot readings can illuminate your unique path and lead to tangible, positive actions that you can apply day to day.
Let Tarot guide you on a journey of self-knowledge and self-fulfillment
Contents:
Forword
Tarot Through the Ages
Tarot and Mindfulness
Reading Tarot
- The Anatomy of the Deck
- The Major Arcana
- The Minor Arcana and Numerology
- The Suits and the Elements
- The Court Cards
- Reversals
- How to Read the Cards
Tarot Spreads:
- Three-card Spreads
- Classic Spreads
- Relationship Spreads
- Work Spreads
- Spiritual Spreads
- Creating Your Own Spread
The Major Arcana
The Minor Arcana
Real-Life Readings
- Celtic cross
- Celtic cross
- Celtic Cross
- Relationship Dynamics
- New Venture
- Conflict Resolution
- Relationship Dynamics
- Self-Care
- Dream Interpretation
Index
Acknowledgements
Subjects:
Tarot.
Mindfulness (Psychology)
Reactions:
The illustrations in the book are beautiful but it slightly strays away from the Rider Waite deck. The illustrations are similar but difference is enough change the original interpretations and meanings of the cards. If you are picky about the original meanings, you may want to look for another book that uses the "Rider Waite" deck as their examples. For example, the author removes some of the esoteric symbols found on the "Rider Waite" deck which are not found in the example deck she uses throughout the book. Also, another example how the author takes some creativity liberties is found in her interpretation of the the "Fool" card where the author refers the Fool as "She", which I found to be an interesting interpretation of the Fool card. Normally in the Rider Waite deck the Fool card is androgynous which could represent both genders, instead of just the female.
However, I am still curious what was is the name of the Tarot deck she uses in her examples because the author does not specify what type of Tarot deck she uses. However, it looks very similar to the "Rider-Waite "deck, but she does not use "Rider-Waite" deck illustrations for her examples.
Also, there is one typo on the book on page 14 where the author refers the "Magician" card to the "Strength" card. But that typo is minor. Overall, 3 Stars!
January 23, 2023
What a great find for this book at Five Below. I really loved this author's approach to tarot and how they wrote this book. Definitely open-ended enough for any kind of reader, spiritual or secular, which I appreciated.
To start with, the book opens with a lot of great information, perfect for beginners, those wanting a refresher, or to have an opportunity to see tarot from a different perspective. What is tarot, information on the deck organization, numerology, the suits + elements, the courts, reversals, how to read the cards, loads of spreads (mainly three card), and how to make your own spreads. That's a TON just to start!
The bulk of the book is of course the cards, starting with the majors, then wands, cups, swords, and pentacles. Each card explanation is the same, so no stiffing on the minors (yay!). It includes artwork made by the author, the card name, upright and reversed keywords, and then detailed dives into upright and reversed meanings. A general interpretation, reflection questions, and actions to take per card. Definitely more than plenty to get going with understanding tarot.
I certainly paused to give myself time while reading several times to let a lot of the reflection questions sort of sit in my head. Even without a deck, this book still offers a lot of ways to get further insight into yourself, how you live your life, the choices you make, why, etc. Really great for mental health work.
Also included is example readings sporadically placed throughout the book. I loved the idea of this, but it's also probably my biggest nit-pick. The placement of these is random, so it was a bit jarring to go from one card in the middle of the majors or minors to an example spread, then back to the cards again. Perhaps more purposely laid out would've been nice. Like breaking up the suits: 1-10, example reading, court cards, example reading, etc. I had other nit-picks with the examples too, since while it was fun to try to do your own reading with the cards before reading what the author interpreted, the author's interpretation often included extra information not initially given, which would've changed my reading, and at times was a little more spiritual than I'd like. (Which that last bit is obviously personal preference.) Not ideal for me, but since I loved the idea and book as a whole so much, I didn't want to dock a star for it.
This was an excellent book and I'm glad I picked it up. For sure one I'd recommend if you can get your hands on it. The author's app is also very good and another great (and free!) resource to check out. Definitely a great add to my collection :)
(Minor mistake under "The Anatomy of the Deck" where the Magician is mislabeled as Strength.)
To start with, the book opens with a lot of great information, perfect for beginners, those wanting a refresher, or to have an opportunity to see tarot from a different perspective. What is tarot, information on the deck organization, numerology, the suits + elements, the courts, reversals, how to read the cards, loads of spreads (mainly three card), and how to make your own spreads. That's a TON just to start!
The bulk of the book is of course the cards, starting with the majors, then wands, cups, swords, and pentacles. Each card explanation is the same, so no stiffing on the minors (yay!). It includes artwork made by the author, the card name, upright and reversed keywords, and then detailed dives into upright and reversed meanings. A general interpretation, reflection questions, and actions to take per card. Definitely more than plenty to get going with understanding tarot.
I certainly paused to give myself time while reading several times to let a lot of the reflection questions sort of sit in my head. Even without a deck, this book still offers a lot of ways to get further insight into yourself, how you live your life, the choices you make, why, etc. Really great for mental health work.
Also included is example readings sporadically placed throughout the book. I loved the idea of this, but it's also probably my biggest nit-pick. The placement of these is random, so it was a bit jarring to go from one card in the middle of the majors or minors to an example spread, then back to the cards again. Perhaps more purposely laid out would've been nice. Like breaking up the suits: 1-10, example reading, court cards, example reading, etc. I had other nit-picks with the examples too, since while it was fun to try to do your own reading with the cards before reading what the author interpreted, the author's interpretation often included extra information not initially given, which would've changed my reading, and at times was a little more spiritual than I'd like. (Which that last bit is obviously personal preference.) Not ideal for me, but since I loved the idea and book as a whole so much, I didn't want to dock a star for it.
This was an excellent book and I'm glad I picked it up. For sure one I'd recommend if you can get your hands on it. The author's app is also very good and another great (and free!) resource to check out. Definitely a great add to my collection :)
(Minor mistake under "The Anatomy of the Deck" where the Magician is mislabeled as Strength.)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews