Spirit of the Drum Oracle by Flavia Kate Peters and Barbara Meiklejohn-Free is an intriguing and spiritually enriching deck designed for those who are interested in exploring the mystical and shamanic world of drumming.
The creators, both well-respected in their fields of spirituality and divination, bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to this oracle set. For decades now, Peters and Meiklejohn-Free have travelled worldwide, sharing the power of the drum in their shamanic workshops and ceremonies. This deck is a compilation of their drum wisdom translated into oracle form, providing readers with the beat of spiritual illumination.
“In the beginning was the sound, and the sound spread through the entire universe, reaching out to everyone. A spark was created, the spark of life, which lives within the spirit of the drum awaiting its brith and connect with each individual soul.”1
The deck itself is beautifully illustrated with each card capturing the essence of drumming as a tool for spiritual awakening and personal transformation. The artwork is vibrant and evocative, featuring a blend of traditional and contemporary elements that appeal to a wide audience. There’s an impressive range of drums featured in the deck: frame drum, battle drum, temple drum, log drum, kettle drum, Siberian drum, whale drum, witch drum, and more. And the imagery of each reflects the culture where or time period when the drum has been most widely used.
Looking at each card is a like a catching a glimpse into the drum’s spirit in motion. The images are snapshot into the drum’s potency; the images come alive through the sense of beat and feeling of movement being portrayed. Meanwhile, the red frame on the border around image feels like a sacred container for the vibration. The gilded red edges also add a dimension of rooted yet active energy. Every card is numbered, and the name of the card along with one or two keywords is at the bottom.
The guidebook features an introduction to the deck, guidance on how to use the cards, and card spreads based on different drum beats. The entry for each card in guidebook showcases the card image, shares a quote, offers meaningful insight about the card’s message, shares a “high beat” and “low beat” idea of how to integrate the energy of the card, an incantation to connect with the drum’s vibration, and a tidbit about how and when the drum is used titled “Drummery”.
After becoming acquainted with the deck by shuffling them and saying aloud the incantation the authors provide to begin one’s journey with this deck, I pulled my first card: Drum Kit. The imagery was a little bit of a shock to my system, as I had been anticipating what I considered a more “spiritual” or “shamanic” drum. But this card’s keywords were “Rock n’ Roll” with an image of an enthusiastic drummer pounding on his drums while his hair flies wildly in the air behind him. And then I realized, the hypnotic rhythm provided by a band’s drummer is quite a potent spiritual force!
The message for this deck was about how I am a grounding force of stability for those around me, along with how my tenacity to see things through will yield successful results. This felt extremely resonant with me, as I have been unusually busy recently with quite a few projects requiring my attention. It often does feel like I’m the control center for the appointments, events, and daily “to-dos” for my family, and the card’s acknowledgement of how I keep the beat for everyone made me feel very seen. I especially liked the authors’ advice that read:
“This card also serves to remind you that it’s important to go wild once in a while and let your hair down. Get that natural rhythm going, feel that beat thumping in your chest and swing your hips.”2
Seems like it’s time for me to have a rock n’ roll dance party!
One thing I especially appreciate too about this deck is the authors’ reverence for the many things a drum can do, whether that is inspire one to dance or calling back one’s power to reclaim their wholeness. The many cards focus on the drum as a sacred instrument, not just for music, but as a conduit for meditation, healing, and connection with the spirit world.
This deck would be especially potent to use in conjunction with a drumming practice. Whether that practice is using your own drum or looking up different drum styles and beats on YouTube, there’s a wide range of potential for discovering a new drum meditation through the cards’ guidance.
Overall, Spirit of the Drum Oracle is a powerful tool for anyone seeking to enhance their spiritual practice with drums, connect with their inner wisdom, and explore the transformative power of rhythm. Its thoughtful design and comprehensive guidance make it a valuable addition to any oracle collection. Peters’ and Meiklejohn-Free’s decades of drumming wisdom shines through, encouraging users to embrace the power of the beat and explore their own spiritual paths.
Wiccan Self-care Spells by Cerridwen Greenleaf is a delightful guide that blends the principles of Wicca with the essential practice of self-care. This book is a treasure trove for those looking to nurture their spiritual, physical, mental well-being through simple yet effective spells and rituals. From enhancing personal energy to fostering emotional healing, the book covers a wide array of topics that are pertinent to anyone seeking balance and harmony in their life.
Cerridwen Greenleaf is a seasoned author in the realm of witchcraft. Her previous publications include Your Book of Shadows, The Book of Kitchen Witchery, Wiccan Teas & Brews, Wiccan Crystals, and The Modern Wiccan’s Guide to Living. In this book, she weaves her expertise into a comprehensive collection of self-care, offering readers magical ways to ease their burdens and bring more self-nurturing into their lives.
The book is well-structured, featuring eight chapters arranged by theme, along with an introduction and conclusion too. The eight chapters cover personal self-care, home magic, office magic, crystals, essential oils, meditation, teas/tonics, and sleep. I like how the book is arranged because it makes it easy to pick out just what area of life you feel could use some tending to magically. While this book can definitely be read cover to cover, being able to quickly look up a topic makes it easy to come back to again and again.
Each section provides magical methods for topics related to the theme, which can range from detailed instructions on how to perform the spells, including the tools and ingredients needed, to recipes for elixirs, brews, essential oil sprays, and body-care products. Most of the ingredients are things people have on hand in their home, though some readers might need to pick up some essential oils, herbs, crystals, and other items to do all the spells. Here are some examples of spells, crafts, and rituals Greenleaf offers throughout the book:
✨ Gather Your Guardians: Simple Home Shrine
✨ Fire of Focus: Inspire Abundance and Success
✨ Happy Home Spray: To Refresh, Restore, and Uplift
✨ Career Candle Magic: Color craft
✨ Witch Craft: Kitchen Cupboard Incase
✨ Sweeping Change: Broom Blessing Spell
✨ Lavender and Chamomile: Tranquility Tonic
✨ Prophetic Pouch: Diana Dream Divination
✨ Positive Incantations: Compose Your Own
In addition to these, Greenleaf also covers more broad magical workings, including sigil magic, using a crystal ball, working with the moon’s phases, connecting to nature, using affirmations and incantations, and candle magic. I love the variety of approaches Greenleaf shares in regard to self-care. The different at-home body care products she teaches how to make such as a mango-butter bars to feel better to a soothing potion to apply to one’s pulse points to bring a sense of calm. There’s a good mix of hands-on ways for readers to be active in their self-care with relaxing and soothing ways too (think baths, forest bathing, and visualization). Whether you’re someone who finds peace in motion or in stillness, there’s opportunities abound to offer yourself care and nurturing.
Greenleaf really knows how to engage the senses with her spellwork too. Whether it’s incredibly good smelling incense, delicious tasting brews, or soothing homemade balms, these magic crafts all ground readers in the physical body while nourishing their spirit. One of my favorites so far is Salts and Pepper: Raise-Your-Spirits Ritual which combines Epsom salts, pepper, and essential oils to bring contentment and a fresh perspective.
I’ve also enjoyed Greenleaf’s suggestions in Holy Smoke: Hygge Home-Fire Rite, which suggests different herbs that can be added to the fire for various purposes. I recently stocked up on new herbs, so we have quite a selection to choose from. We started with adding roses to our fire, to “bring sweetness and peace to any space”3 as Greenleaf shared. Both my husband and I could sense a lightness in our hearts, making us feel close and connected as the fire burned.
All the spells are designed to be accessible for both beginners and experienced practitioners. Greenleaf avoids overly complex rituals, making it easy for readers to integrate these practices into their daily routines. Most of these spells are things that can be done within the span of a few minutes to an hour; none are too long, energetically demanding, or overly complicated. Greenleaf’s write style in an empowering and supportive tone, encouraging readers to embrace their inner magic and prioritize their well-being, which I think many witches need to be reminded of often!
Greenleaf’s approach is also inclusive to all, even if you’re not Wiccan. The focus on self-care is particularly timely, given the increasing awareness of mental health and wellness. I shared quite bit of Greenleaf’s advice with family members who are not magically-included, such as the healing teas and ideas for certain gemstones to use to bolster their goals. For those just dipping their toes into magic, this book is a great place to start!
Beyond the content, the layout and format of this book is extremely visually appealing. There’s beautiful illustrations and a clean layout that enhance the reading experience, filled with color and different fonts and text sizes to make reading engaging. There’s plenty to take in on each page, and the well-crafted aesthetic offers additional pleasure when reading this book.
Overall, Wiccan Self-care Spells is a charming and practical guide for anyone interested in integrating magical practices into their self-care routine. Greenleaf succeeds in providing a resource that is both informative and empowering, making it a valuable addition to the library of any modern witch or self-care enthusiast. Whether you are new to magic or a seasoned practitioner, this book offers a wealth of inspiration and guidance to nurture your mind, body, and spirit. As Greenleaf writes, “Take good care of yourself. You are very much worth it and the better you are, the better our world will be.”4
Josephine Wall’s Angelic Vibration Oracle is a captivating oracle deck that invites readers to connect with angles through its splendid artwork and insightful messages. This 50-card deck serves a form of communication between the reader and their angels, sharing wisdom that uplifts, renews hope, and encourages readers that they are divinely protected.
“The angels are wonderful helpers in your everyday life because they establish a direct connection between yourself and the INFINITE SOURCE OF LIFE. They know exactly, sometimes even better than you, what challenges you face and how best to tackle them.”5
The visual artistry of Josephine Wall is nothing short of breathtaking. Each card in the Angelic Vibrations Oracle is adorned with intricate, dreamlike illustrations that capture the essence of celestial beings and mystical landscapes. Wall’s use of vibrant colors and delicate details creates a feeling of otherworldly beauty, drawing the observer into a realm where the imagination can roam free. There’s a beautiful tenderness within the images, a sweetness that opens one’s heart and soul to divine love.
The imagery in this oracle deck also serves as a bridge between the earthly and the divine. Scenes on the cards features both heavenly and earthly surroundings, igniting feelings of unity between the reader and the angels present in our lives. I love how nature and the celestial realm are blended, showing angels riding through the sky as well as swimming in the sea. Wall really depicts the connection of angels with the natural realm, almost show them with a fairy-like essence.
The themes of the cards, reflected in the image and name of the card, are designed to provide guidance on various aspects of life, from personal growth and relationships to spiritual enlightenment. The energy of this inspires hope, love, and spiritual awakening. For readers who need a moment of grace in their day, pulling a card from this deck would be the perfect pause to reflect and connect with their angels.
The accompanying guidebook offers well-articulated explanations and suggestions on how to interpret the cards, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned oracle readers. For each beautifully crafted card in the deck, Wall provides a short and sweet interpretation. The messages conveyed through the cards encourage self-reflection and a deeper connection with one’s inner self and the universe. The messages are non-denominational, making them inclusive and appealing to a wide audience, regardless of their spiritual or religious affiliations.
As an example, the card I pulled today is Healing in the Now (42). The guidebook entry for this card reads:
“Illness often comes with much suffering. Know that the angels of healing surround you always!”6
And would you believe that after a week of tending to my son with RSV, I woke up today feeling pretty bad myself, assured that the virus had spread to me. I was absolutely astounded that this deck brought forth a card that accurately reflected my troubles—feeling quite stuffy, foggy-headed, and unhappy about the developing symptoms—and instantly provided a soothing balm of relief in the message that the angels are with me through this.
The image for this card show an angel with brilliant, translucent wings looking down at a dove she’s holding. She is wearing a purple cloak, but her arms and chest look like a church’s stain-glassed window, featuring the image of another angel, and her lower body shows what looks like a portal down a path lined with trees. She hovers in the heavens, as shown by the starry night’s sky behind her, but at her feet is a cresting white mountain range.
Looking at the image reminds me to have faith that I’ll be able to move through this illness with ease. Meanwhile, I’m going take a higher spiritual perspective about feeling this way as a message to slow down and reconnect rather than feel victimized by the suffering.
As far as the logistics of the deck the cards are all arranged numerically. Readers either need to look to the table of contents to find the page number for the card’s entry or flip through the deck. However, flipping through takes a bit of time because the numbers do not correspond to the alphabetical order and the entry could be anywhere! Additionally, within the guidebook, Wall offers a variety of spreads that can be used for the cards in the beginning of the guidebook too for further insight.
So far, I’ve been using this deck for daily inspiration, meditation, and more in-depth readings, depending on what feels best each day. The deck is ideal for those looking for a small reminder of the angel’s presence in their daily life. Those exploring their spirituality through connection with the angels or seeking a tool for personal insight and reflection would benefit from their deck.
Overall, Angelic Vibrations Oracle is a stunningly gorgeous deck filled with a variety of angelic beings. It combines exquisite artwork with gentle messages, offering users a means to connect with higher realms and their own inner wisdom. Whether used for personal reflection or spiritual guidance, this oracle deck is sure to enchant and inspire readers, providing them with messages of love and divine support.
Sleepy Hollow, New York is one of the most magical places I’ve ever visited (WAY better than Salem, Massachusetts for a visit during Halloween season in my opinion!). The rich cultural history of railroad tycoons vacationing there within the gorgeous landscape, amplified by the American folklore forged by Washington Irvington, give Sleepy Hollow a liminal feeling where one can step out of time to merge with echoes from the past.
I was totally thrilled to discover The Legend of Sleepy Hollow Tarot by Nick Lawyer, which blends the classic tale of Ichabod Crane and the Headless Horseman with the mystical art of tarot reading to provide readers with the same timeless experience that comes through in divination.
The cards in this deck are absolutely stunning. The navy blue back of the card has an intricate gilded design that features a sun, moon, pumpkins, skulls, bats, eyes, and vines. Shuffling the deck feels luminous, like you’re about to step through a portal into the 18th century, where gothic mystery awaits. This tarot deck follows the traditional structure, with 78 cards divided into the major and minor arcana. However, what makes it unique is the thematic twist each card takes from Sleepy Hollow’s folklore.
The images on the deck are all related to Irvington’s writing, with most of the cards depicting characters from The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Those who are familiar with the tale will absolutely love seeing the scenes of it depicted on the cards; IIchabod Crane, Katrina Van Tassel, and, of course, the Headless Horseman, are cleverly integrated into the cards, providing a fresh interpretation of familiar tarot archetypes. Lawyer also draws inspiration from other folklore in the Sleepy Hollow area, such as The Woman in White, who haunts Raven Rock in Rockefeller State Park Preserve, along with figures like werewolves, witches, enchantresses, and more.
As a whole, the illustrations within this deck are intricately designed, perfectly capturing the eerie and enchanting essence of the tale. Lawyer has done a remarkable job of blending traditional tarot symbolism with the gothic undertones of the story. The use of color and shadow creates an atmospheric experience that draws the reader into the realm of Sleepy Hollow.
The cards are sturdy, easy to shuffle, and come with a guidebook that offers detailed explanations of each card’s meaning, both upright and reversed. Those who are already familiar with the traditional tarot interpretations will easily be able to apply the meanings of cards into their readings. The descriptions for each card are not too long, so those who are unfamiliar with tarot might need to supplement Lawyer’s description of the card for more insight. The real charm of this deck is how Lawyer weaves in Irvington’s writing, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, and other local folklore to the guidebook, adding an interesting layer to the readings.
For the major arcana cards, there’s either a quote from Irvington’s writing or Lawyer’s description of what’s being depicted in the scene on the card. For instance, the guidebook entry for the Strength reads:
“Abraham “Brom” Van Brunt, with his Herculean frame, earned the nickname “Brom Bones” for his feats of strength and hardiness. Always ready for a fight or frolic, his character was quickened more by a spirit of mischief than ill will.”1
The image on the card shows Brunt wrestling with a wolf, much like the traditional Strength card showing a woman bending towards a lion. This example goes to show how the deck is a great balance of literary creativity and traditional tarot.
The most recent card I pulled from this deck was the Ten of Pentacles, which features a table set for a delicious dinner of turkey, ham, pie, and more. Each plate is the pentacle symbol, all nicely set around the table. The guidebook describes this card as “The great harvest fest of Van Tassel manor”7. Since it’s a minor arcana card, Lawyer simply shares a few keywords for both the upright and reverse position. Given that I just listed a car for sale online, I was quite please to read the keywords “wealth, financial security”8 as insight for my pull!
Overall, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow Tarot by Nick Lawyer is a beautifully crafted deck that will appeal to both tarot readers and literary enthusiasts alike. Lawyer brings a fresh perspective to Washington Irving’s timeless story in this unique deck. Its captivating artwork and thematic richness make it a worthy addition to any collection, especially for those who enjoy one of a kind decks. The fusion of an American classic tale with tarot makes for a very engaging deck that invites literary mysticism into readers’ lives.
Pagan Portals – A Guide to Pilgrimage by Thea Prothero offers an insightful exploration into the spiritual journey of pilgrimage. Presenting pilgrimage as not only a physical journey but also a transformative spiritual experience, this book is a starting point for those who feel the calling to travel. Whether you have a specific plan in mind or simply have a longing to discover a new place, Prothero will guide you through the process of planning and undergoing your own pilgrimage with helpful advice and wisdom from her travels.
“We feel a need to find something within ourselves but aren’t sure what exactly. You have grown weary of the our lives are now and want to have new experiences to enable us to find a change in outlook or gain a new perspective. You are in a conundrum and are looking for clarity. In short, a pilgrimage maybe the key to transformation, or inner growth you are looking for.”8
The engaging and informative writing style of Porthero has an expansiveness within it that invites readers from all backgrounds to explore the benefits of pilgrimage, not only Pagan readers. People from various spiritual paths will be able to relate to her insights and adapt them to their own journey. The blend of historical context, practical advice, and spiritual insight makes it an excellent starting point for those looking to discover where their soul is calling them to visit and have the courage to take the steps to get there.
Prothero begins by sharing with readers the historical and cultural significance of pilgrimage, offering readers an understanding of its place within different spiritual paths. She explains how humans have been taking pilgrimages for thousands of years and it still continues to be a vital practice for many, from ancient Egyptians venturing to Abydos to honor Osiris to modern Muslims traveling to Mecca once in their lifetime. Pilgrimage is a pathway for deepening one’s personal growth and spiritual experiences that is adaptable to all belief systems yet also personalized and unique to every traveler.
Adaptability and flexibility are important for any journey, especially once you get further out of your comfort zone. But there’s still plenty of ways one can prepare to undertake their pilgrimage that Prothero shines light on. These include exploring the spiritual connection with the place you intend to visit through inner reflection and journaling to research and planning to feel prepared to handle the logistics of your trip. Choosing a destination, planning the journey, and preparing mentally and spiritually for the experience are all covered by Prothero, who shares her own process as an inspiration for others.
But what to do once one gets to their destination? Prothero also shares insights on how to make the most of the moment and then integrate all that you’ve undergone once you return home again. She draws from own experience of traveling to Iona, Scotland, a place that had been calling to her for decades. The description of her journey made me feel like I was there witnessing the beauty of Iona with her, a liminal space opened just by talking about pilgrimage. It makes me crave the feeling of being an explorer in an unknown land!
“On your pilgrimage, you will be crossing from the familiar into the unknown. Liminal space is one of the most important constituents of any spiritual quest or journey. It is here that we are challenged. Everything we are familiar with and our understanding of the everyday, the normal, collapses. We are free to explore the unexplored and what exists beyond our normal human experience and understanding.”9
Overall, Pagan Portals – A Guide to Pilgrimage is a great primer for anyone interested in exploring the concept of pilgrimage. The book’s practical advice makes it a useful guide for anyone considering a pilgrimage, regardless of their level of experience with travel. As an introductory text, it’s sure to stir your spirit to new lands.
My interest in this deck relates to my love for oracle decks that combine spiritual images and the natural world with real world guidance. And this deck did not disappoint! Stark weaves beautiful stories in the guidebook, adding shadow aspects, crystal recommendations, angel pairings, and an affirmation for each card in the deck.
Stark begins the guidebook with a Table of Contents. She both numbers the cards in alphabetical order AND provides the Table of Contents, making it easy to find the appropriate guidance in her guidebook. Next, she features acknowledgements and thanks those who helped her create the deck, as well as those who will be using the deck. In her Introduction, Stark sets out the goal of these cards: “to support your intuitive growth and awareness of your deep connection within the universe…. to support you in shifting stagnant energy.”1
In the section entitled “How to Use the Cards,” Stark explains more about how the cards work for both divination and healing. She adds tips on how to connect with your cards and clear them between readings. She also introduces the reader to simple ways to prepare yourself and your space for readings. For the second time, she recommends keeping a journal to record your interactions with the deck. She shares three spreads for working with the deck and then discusses the Seven Rays, Seven Chohans, archangels and guardian angels, and crystals.
To evaluate the deck, I pulled a card a day for seven days. The first card I drew was 36. Third Eye Vision. This card talked extensively about the third eye, from both a historical and spiritual perspective. The main idea for me was: “If you wish to intensify or gain third eye visions more regularly, activate and decalcify your pineal gland through visualized meditation.”10 She also recommends iolite as a crystal to support this and adds Archangel Jeremiel for additional support.
I also contacted two friends and asked if I could pull a card for them. For my friend D, I drew card 29. Open Intuition. The message includes a reminder that we are all intuitive and to trust those vibes. There was also this message, which D related to:
“You are receiving many messages but are misinterpreting the meaning. Focus on clearing your mind and resetting your psychic antenna.”11
D explained that she had been recently asking for signs for a particular situation and was confused. This message was just what she needed to get back on track with her daily time in nature to clear her mind.
Another friend received card 6. Birth of Creation. This card featured an egg-shaped design and spoke to “A fresh start. Potential growth.”12 The guidance also mentioned the importance of trying a new routine, getting creative, and nurturing new ideas. My friend V said that this was confirming something she was already doing to prepare for 2025. She said the recommendation of the crystal kunzite was also resonating and she would pick up one on her next trip to the crystal shop.
These cards are standard oracle card dimensions, coming in around 3.5” X 5”. The 36 cards fit nicely in a sturdy box that features a howling wolf on the cover and three cards on the back. I found the cards easy to shuffle and really like the shiny varnish on both sides of the brightly colored deck. Dyer uses all the colors of the rainbow and the cosmos to create this deck.
My favorite card is 32. Shield Your Energy. It features the most amazing frog, with giant golden eyes and a quizzical look. I loved the frog’s message:
“Use the element of water to unblock your energy fields and create a smooth flow of kundalini for personal healing and growth. Find your own sacred song. Call to others who share your passions and interests where you can support and renew your inner fire.”13
Sacred Spirit Oracle would be great for any level of oracle card reader. Stark created the guidebook for easy navigation and the guidance is straightforward and easy to comprehend and use for everyday life. I plan to keep this deck on hand to use with clients as I close out a reading. I also plan to utilize the six-card spread that Stark called “Life Guidance Spread” to add another layer to my daily card pulls.
The affirmations that accompany each card really tie together the visual images and the messages in the guidebook. For example, here is the affirmation from the Frog:
“I sing the beautiful sacred song of my heart, clear and loud for all to hear.”14
About the Authors
Anna Stark began working with tarot cards at 15 to “understand and embrace her intuition.”15 She now works as a psychic medium and energy specialist. She combines her ability to receive psychic messages with her love for history, society and the paranormal. Stark is also a kinesiologist and Reiki Master, who teaches energy healing. She came to learn about natural ways of healing to heal her own anxiety. Stark has created two other oracle decks and an affirmation deck of small cards for everyday encouragement. You can learn more about her on her website.
Louis Dyer is both a digital artist and a traditional artist, using watercolors, oils, and acrylics. At age 5, he saw a cousin drawing and became interested in creating his own art. He soon began drawing “cartoons, video game characters and nature.”16 Dyer has created the artwork for another oracle deck and has featured works in several magazines and online sites. He also teaches digital artwork techniques online. You can see Dyer’s art and learn more on his website.
Feeling like it’s time for a change? Brandi Amara Skyy’s Magick for Transformation: Rituals and Alchemy for Manifesting Your Wildest Dreams delves into magic as a tool for personal transformation, offering readers all they need to re-envision their lives. With a blend of practical guidance and spiritual insights, Skyy offers a comprehensive approach to harnessing the power of magic for positive change.
In her introduction, Skyy describes how the magic she teaches is non-denominational, radically intersectional, and drawn from intersectional alchemy, which in her case is a blend of the “Aztecs Medicine Wheel and the Seven Hermetic Principles.”14 While this foundation is unique to Skyy and influences the content of the book, she acknowledges diverse paths to spiritual growth and ensures the magical practices in the book can be undertaken by readers from diverse spiritual backgrounds and magical experience.
“I realized that magick is not inherently or solely Wiccan, European, or white-centric. Magick is something I could gift, be, or learn myself. And so can you. Because magick isn’t about semantics. It’s about energy. And magick can (and does!) look like you. Magick can be many things but here’s the main thing it’s not: Magick is not passive.”17
I love this quote so much because it reminds me that to make the changes I want in my life, I need to actively be pursuing the next version of myself. I can grumble about my current dissatisfaction and fantasize about “what if” things looked different, but until I began actively taking steps to transform, I was always stuck. This book was a great starting point to connect with my inner discontent, remember my own personal power to change things, and begin the journey of shifting the way my life was feeling. Skyy teaches us to be change makers, breaking the status quo of our outdated beliefs, habits, and feelings to reconnect with dreams and live more aligned.
The first section following the introduction taps readers into the present moment. Titled “Part 0: You Are Here”, Skyy shares what readers will be embarking on by reading this book and offers exercises to asses where they currently are now. She explains the concepts of magick and transformation, offering insight into how your Self “is the entry point to magick” and how transformation is interlinked with choice. I thought it was interesting to think about transformation in the way she describes, which is a skill that can be actively cultivated.
“Part I: Preparing for Your Journey” gets readers ready to make a magical transformation by cultivating their energy, intention, mindset, spiritual will, and self-leadership, among other skills needed to undergo the change. This section really puts the reader in the driver seat, reminding them of the inner strength and personal responsibility. No one else can make a change for you; readers must take an inventory of their life, notice what needs to be realigned, and then pick the direction that they want to go in. Easier said than done though, and luckily, Skyy provides many ideas about how to prepare for a successful follow through.
Throughout the book there are “Praxis” exercises where Skyy provides instructions for putting into effect what she’s been discussing, transforming the theory into practice. The many praxises include meditating, journaling, tarot reading, and working with ancestral spirits and nature. To truly get the most out of this book, I highly encourage pausing and taking the time to do the praxis before moving forward, as the book does move in a sequential format that requires readers to hone their intentions, connect with their Self, and set clear goals to take action towards.
“Part II: Your Magickal Tools for Transformation” teaches readers of all the spiritual assistance they can draw upon for the change. From the lunar cycle to the medicine wheel, Skyy reminds us that there’s greater force at work that we can attune ourselves to for natural change. She also discusses ancestors and animal allies, tarot, spirit writing, and alchemy as methods to foster transformation. The variety of methods for change makes it so readers have options to draw inspiration from, ensuring they find a path that feels right for them.
Finally, “Part III: Transforming Your Life” brings the whole process together, encouraging readers to take the L.E.A.P. (“Learn. Alchemize. Express. Praxis.”18 Skyy shares a 30-day transformation plan, which offers a detailed format for how one might choose to work with this book. For each day, she recommends specific pages to read and goals to fulfill. As much as I loved reading the book front to cover, I also love this plan! I think it would be great for those who are looking for a structure to their practice to solidify their commitment to change.
One of the best parts of this books is the way it’s designed. This is not a book of all texts; there’s plenty of bright color and varying texts to keep the reader actively engaged. Different fonts make certain things stand out, while lists and bullet points allow for easy-to-follow instructions. Plus, every page is wonderfully illustrated with images and symbolism that bring to life the text.
Overall, Magick for Transformation is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to embark on a journey of personal transformation and self-discovery. Whether you are a seasoned magical practitioner or looking for inner change and feel magic is the method for you, Skyy’s warm and engaging writing style and practical advice will empower you to unlock your potential and manifest your dreams. For me, simply holding it gave me the hope that change is possible, and I can resource myself with the tools and practices needed to get the initiation started. Working my way through has been very impactful, and I’m sure others will also benefit from the insight Skyy shares to support readers in their personal transformation.
The Bloodlands Oracle by Amory Abbott beckons you to journey through uncharted natural landscapes, where dark outer terrains await, prepared to spark inner wisdom. Inspired by the geography and elements of the natural world, readers will immerse themselves in a transformative journey through rivers, cliffs, and footpaths of nature, discovering the rich symbolism of Earth’s many terrains.
This deck courageously acknowledges the full spectrum of life—highs and lows, challenges and blessings, ease and discomfort—which is reflected in the stark contrasts of the black and white aesthetic too. Delving into themes of shadow, fear, and vulnerability for readers to honestly acknowledge the energies in play, this deck provides rich wisdom that goes beyond mere niceties; Abbott takes readers beyond paved paths to explore the wild unknown. Mirroring the shifting natural conditions, The Bloodlands Oracle empowers readers to confront their wild inner nature and emerge stronger.
“For many people, darkness can be a mysterious and alluring force, a melancholy and protective space, or a place to confront fear. It takes courage to walk through the night, a bit of faith that the road will not end but arrive somewhere in the light.”19
In his author biography, Abbott describes how cartomancy helped him through a dark night of the soul. Drawing inspiration from Vancouver, British Columbia where he lives, the charcoal drawings became a focal point of his artist work. He then “began examining what the features of the land could mean to use and what they could tell us about our lives”20 and decided to mimic his charcoal drawings and create the imagery for this deck with digital tools.
The deck is a nice size to use in a reading, as it easily fits in the reader’s hand but it big enough to really see all the small details of the imagery. The box it comes in is sturdy with a magnetic flap that opens to reveal a quote on the lid while the cards are safely tucked in on the other side of the box. The deck has red edges, which is the only color in the otherwise monochromatic deck.
The deck’s imagery is both striking and evocative, drawing inspiration from the raw beauty of nature. Each card is a portal into a deeper understanding of oneself, inviting contemplation and introspection. The natural features Abbott has translated into imagery and guidance are listed in the card names: The Moonbow, The Lightning Strike, The Cavern, The Solitary Peak, The Falls, and The Stone Circle. Each card also features an element symbol (fire, air, earth, water, or spirit) that further gives insight and meaning for understanding the card’s energy.
The accompanying guidebook provides further interpretation for each card, offering support for readers on their personal journey. The entry for each card has a general meaning at the top in red text. Abbott then describes the natural feature and shares the message readers can abstract from it for reflection, contemplation, or divination. If the card takes on a certain significance when paired with another card, this is also noted. Abbott also provides the reversed meaning for the card as well.
For instance, the card I pulled inquiring about a work situation was The River. The element for this card is water, and the imagery shows a wide, winding river moving through a valley of rock. The guidebook reads:
“A river follows the path of least resistance, carving its way slowly over eons through rock and earth, carrying all that joins it to its end. . . Be reassured this card finds you in a state of consistent movement towards your goals, carrying you effortlessly where you desire.”21
I loved this reassuring message! To be honest, not all the cards I’ve pulled have been as “positive”. In the spirit of acknowledging both the dark and the light aspects of life, the card The Crown Fire has a message of “Devastation, total collapse, starting over”22 While this can sound scary, much like the Tower card in tarot, Abbott’s writing reminds of the necessity of the occasional difficulties to encourage migration, regeneration, and eradication.
Overall, The Bloodlands Oracle is a doorway to gaining a deeper understanding of the darker aspects of self through the transformative power of nature. The imagery of the natural world provides the groundedness and connection needed to see the full range of our inner nature. The many terrains of the earth are reflected aspects of our own psychic landscape, and Abbott has done a wonderful job translating the imagery into meaningful guidance for introspection and reflection. Within this deck, readers will discover the dually creative and destructive forces that are constantly shifting in both nature and themselves.
This deck is for those who feel called to explore the full-spectrum of nature. Abbott takes us to the highs and lows of our world, while also guiding readers to these peaks and pitfalls within themselves. The divinatory style of this deck encourages readers to delve into the depths of their own psyche. As a result, The Bloodlands Oracle is a valuable tool for self-discovery that reminds us of the benefits of exploring a variety of inner and outer landscapes.
Dwina Murphy-Gibb has created a masterful tarot deck with influences from the Vedic, Irish, Qabbalistic, and Rider-Waite-Smith traditions in The Vedic Tarot: East Meets West. From the brightly colored illustrations to the wealth of information presented in the guidebook, this deck is a feast for the eyes and wisdom for the soul.
Born and raised in Northern Ireland, Dwina Murphy-Gibb was educated at Hornsey Art College in England. Her published works include three books of poetry, three novels, and numerous short stories. In addition to two plays, she has also produced a few independent films. You can learn more about Murphy-Gibb on her website.
What interested me most about this deck was the reference to “East Meets West.” Murphy-Gibb shares that her first deck of cards was a deck of playing cards. This was due to her grandmother’s disdain for tarot cards. Her first tarot deck was a Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) deck, followed by the Etteilla and Aquarian decks, among others. The symbolism of the Rider-Waite-Smith deck shines through in this deck, although some of the names and symbols of the cards have been changed.
Murphy-Gibb changes The Fool to The First Traveler, and Death to Changes, among others. She also adds three cards to the major arcana: Oogenesis, Arbor Vitae, and Supreme Soul. So that she doesn’t interrupt the traditional numbers of the major arcana, Murphy-Gibb gives these three cards special numbers.
For the minor arcana, she utilizes the suits of Cups, Wands and Swords, but transforms Pentacles into Shields. In an example of how the RWS symbology is seen, the Five of Shields in this deck features a couple huddled outside of a building with stained-glass windows. The shields on most of the cards are round, much like pentacles in other suits.
Each card features the name of the card, a symbolic drawing, the Hebrew letter, the Sanskrit name, the Ogham tree/symbol, and the musical instrument applicable to the card. In the guidebook, Murphy-Gibb gives detailed information regarding each of these correspondences. There are also two charts in the guidebook that present tables of the information from all of the correspondences for the major arcana. Here are just a few of the correspondences that she assigns to The Lovers card in one of the charts:
Murphy-Gibb begins the guidebook with the story of how The Vedic Tarot was created:
“This Tarot is really an illustrative book that explores secrets of four ancient languages: Vedic Sanskrit, Irish Ogham Tree Alphabet, and Hebrew, as well as English and the influence of sound or music in the spheres and in the chakras of the body.”23
Next, she explains how each of these play a role in the story of man and tarot. She divides the major arcana into three sections of archetypes, powers, and the Eight-Fold Path.
After the extensive guidance and wisdom provided for both major and minor arcana cards, Murphy-Gibb presents Part 2. This section includes how to work with the cards, correspondence tables, and several spreads, including one she learned from a Gypsy Queen in her youth. This spread includes “the making of a mandala by interlocking the cards,”24 and makes use of only six cards.
Next, Murphy-Gibb presents glossaries for Sanskrit, Hebrew/Qabbalah, and Ogham terms. She also includes resources for further reading, including online sources.
I decided to test drive the deck by drawing three cards, keeping in mind Murphy-Gibb’s advice:
“The querent does not need to ask a question, because the answer will be apparent to them during the reading, or the subconscious question they have not dared to ask will be answered.”25
I drew these cards: Three of Swords, Knight of Swords and Knight of Cups. The information in the guidebook is so rich and multi-layered and it is easy to become overwhelmed. I decided to scan the pages for each card and came up with these three bits of guidance:
“I am not lost, but rather replace it with the wonder of being somewhere else.”26
“I may choose to challenge laws without breaking them.”27
“There is joy in “the finding of a direction, not the seeking of it.””28
This guidance helps me greatly with a situation in my life. I am also going to look up music with violins, C-sharp notes, and/or music that soothes the heart chakra, in keeping with Murphy-Gibb’s guidance.
This deck is presented in a large, sturdy box, printed in rich colors of scarlet, gold, and black. It features a magnetic flap that secures the box and opens to reveal space for the guidebook and two deep wells for the cards. These cards are printed on nice cardstock, which is so heavy that the box requires you to cut the deck in half to store it. The cards have a black matte edging, and the back of the card is a unique design, which Murphy-Gibb describes as: “a combination of the Trishula, Shiva’s weapon, the Damru, his drum and the lyre.”29 She also accents the image with a sun, a snake and three worms across a moon, because she finished the artwork for the back of the cards on a Worm Moon.
My favorite card in this deck is the Arbor Vitae. This card is numbered 0-8 and comes before the Justice card in the major arcana for this deck. The visual is a tree with a feminine face, a small tree in her heart and curling roots. The musical instrument for this card is the bell. It is so calming and beautiful. I plan to keep it on my altar for a few days and drink in its powerful love vibes. The last line of the guidance says it all:
“Everyone wants to feel useful, and taking care of the little things is a service to the Great Mother and our own fulfillment. Undoing the wrongs by taking right action is the greatest medicine of all.”30
The Vedic Tarotwould probably be best for a seasoned tarot reader or tarot scholar. The rich layers of guidance, the multiple correspondences and the combination of Vedic, Sanskrit, Hebrew, and Irish myth and lore might be too difficult for a novice to take in.
However, if beginners wanted to initially focus on the Divination section and then build up to adding the information in the other portions, this would be a great addition to their tarot collection. I plan to keep it on hand for personal readings and utilize the guidebook for additional information for client readings.
With this deck, we can continue our quest for knowledge and, as Murphy-Gibb says:
“We can begin remembrance of who we really are and start learning to fly.”31
In recent years, there’s been a shift in how plants are used in magical practices. There have always been ways to obtain ingredients for spells or other workings, but the events during the last few years have seen many people foraging for their own elements. Without overly generalizing, it seems as though anyone with access to an outdoor space has taken advantage of that and started to grow their own herbs and such. But how many people actually forage, as in go into the woods and search endlessly for plants that grow wild only in certain spots? And how do you make sure that what you are gathering is safe and not harmful to children or pets?
Enter The Tameless Path: Unleashing the Power of Invasive Plants in Witchcraft, by Kamden Cornell. If Rachel Pollacks’ 78 Degrees of Wisdom is looked upon as the definitive book on tarot, then Cornell’s book will certainly be a top contender with respect to plants. Cornell is no stranger to plants: they currently teach classes on witchcraft, occultism, herbalism, wortcunning, foraging, and invasive species wildcrafting in their region. They also work as an apothecarist and own a small, witchcraft-oriented business that focuses on herbal remedies, ritual goods, and education. To say they are qualified is an understatement.
“What we call “weeds” have been used as remedies and food for thousands of years in the regions they were native to before being transplanted to our own soils.”31
One of the first things I questioned when I picked up this book was relevance to me personally; after all, I don’t live anywhere near the author. Looking at the table of contents quickly relieved me of that fear as I saw many familiar plants that grow in my area listed. The chapters on alchemy, planetary magic, and various methods of plant preparation are well written and provide information that will lead the reader to a deeper understanding of the connection between plants and the universe.
There are two table of contents pages: one showcases chapters divided thoughtfully into a pattern that makes sense in terms of content, and the other is a full listing of spells and recipes by weed. Both are comprehensive and well laid out, but it’s the spells and recipes that drew me in. While some of the spells seem whimsical in terms of their ingredients, knowing what can be substituted for the more arcane and less available tasks is vital. Knowing a bit of herbology and spellcraft would be useful here but isn’t necessary as long as the internet exists!
Chapter 4 is my favorite as it deals specifically with choosing the method of preparation and provides clear instruction on how to do so. The preamble for the directions is very informative and provides a ton of guidance around the processes. There is also a disclaimer regarding using words such as medicine or medicinal, as Cornell is very clear to reiterate that “nothing in this book is intended to be a substitute for medical treatment.”32 The author is very clear about personal safety and recommends being in the care of an allopathic physician should one choose to utilize herbal protocols in any way.
Cornell goes into great detail in each section of this chapter, explaining common terms that relate to each section such as tisane and strewing blends. Most people who pick up this book will probably have some knowledge around these terms, yet Cornell goes deep into each area and ensures there are no stones left unturned. I appreciate that immensely as there is no need for cross referencing: everything you need to know is contained in one book. How convenient!
Perhaps the most interesting part of the section is the alchemical one. Not being familiar with this specific method myself, I devoured the section and made notes. I was under the impression that processes like distillation were complicated and involved so many containers and apparatus, and I was right. Probably not something I could do in my tiny apartment, but a girl can dream. I love the idea of distilling my own supplies, but the reality is I cannot. Not the first time I’ve been disappointed but at least it’s not with the book.
The Tameless Path is perfect for those who are interested in the path of herbology and want to deepen the practice. Chock full of information that isn’t readily available elsewhere unless you dig deep, this book provides clear and concise information as well as a variety of accompanying methods and recipes for a well-rounded literary journey through the land of herbology. Practical and magical, I will be gifting copies of this book to a few of my green-thumbed friends, who might be persuaded to share the fruits of their labour with me.
