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The Sacred Biodiversity Oracle, by Angela Manno

The Sacred Biodiversity Oracle: A 36-Card Deck and Guidebook, by Angela Manno
Bear & Company, 159143503X, 160 pages, 36 cards, January 2026

Our planet is experiencing an unprecedented loss of biodiversity, with countless species disappearing at a rate that threatens the delicate balance of ecosystems worldwide. In The Sacred Biodiversity Oracle by Angela Manno, sacred art and contemplative practice converge to draw attention to the animals and habitats most at risk. Through reflection, education, and direct links to conservation efforts, this deck gently transforms awareness into meaningful action.

“The current biodiversity crisis is nothing less than a holocaust of Nature. According to the Center for Biological Diversity, more than 8,000 species are going extinct every year–that’s twenty-two species per day, about one species every hour–one thousand times the natural rate.”1

Manno’s artistic rendering of 36 full-color cards serve to honor threatened and endangered species with the aim of using her artwork to produce an emotional response that inspires readers to evaluate and hopefully transform their relationship to “the planet and all its life forms from one of exploitation to one of mutual enhancement and respectful coexistence.”2 The cards are huge ( 5.25 inches by 7.5 inches),  which allows for them to be prominently displayed.

Within the guidebook, Manno details how she came to create this deck after studying the traditional Byzantine iconography style, in which divinity comes through contemplation of the image. She chose to use this style to frame each species in this deck as a sacred being worthy of reverence, not merely statistical information, in order to illuminate their value and special spirit. A key practice in this guidebook is visio divina (sacred seeing), which allows for the spiritual nature of reality to emerge from contemplation of the image. Manno writes:

“Anyone who fervently opens themselves up to the power of these images–both in Nature and in art–can rest in and be nourished by their wisdom and beauty.”3

The artwork is gorgeous. Manno has painted each threatened or endangered species in a style inspired by sacred iconography, evoking reverence and stillness through tones are relatively simple yet illuminating. The clean backgrounds showcase the brilliant detailing of each species, clearly rendering and centering each one in a way that invites focus. Manno has given each species a quiet presence on the card that transforms them from overlooked or imperiled beings into holy ones worthy of contemplation, protection, and awe.

The exercises in the guidebook further assist readers with this process. For each card, Manno shares information about the species depicted (traits, habitat, role in the larger ecosystem, current plight), offers the opportunity to connect with the animal through visio divina, encourages stream of consciousness writing, and then shares a way for readers to take action on behalf of the species. There’s even a QR code in each entry, as well as on the card itself, in order to be immediately linked to a website of an organization working on conservation for the species.

The species are divided into six types: mammals, birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians, invertebrates, and plants. I appreciated how Manno spans the natural world when it comes to representing the threatened or endangered species. This highlights how each species, big and small, from the Gray Wolf to the Firefly, has a vital and important role to play within both the local and larger ecosystem.

As previously mentioned, there is no applicable spiritual guidance shared in the guidebook, which I think is important to note given the word “oracle” in the title. The Sacred Biodiversity Oracle is designed not for divination, but for contemplation, connection, and ecological awareness. The cards intend to foster insight, empathy, and ecological responsibility within the readers and are best used as a more educational and spiritual tool than predictive oracle. This made me reflect on how often we turn to other beings as spiritual allies, hoping their wisdom comes through to answer our questions in oracle decks, but it’s rare we are given the chance to assist them. This deck is unique in that regard, as the card pulls are not to provide insights related to your own personal journey, but rather an opportunity to use your agency to assist these species in need.

Almost all entries are exactly the same, with the main focus being performing the visio divina with the card and journaling to the question “Allow yourself to be enveloped by empathy for this living being. How does its plight impact your life?”4 Therefore, I think it’s important to brace yourself when working with this deck. It’s a delicate balance choosing to open to the animal’s sacred energy only to then be presented with wisdom that makes you feel a bit helpless. While the immediate vetted nonprofit groups accessible through the QR codes is very useful, it’s important to also take time to engage in self-care when doing this meaningful environmental work.

While many of us wish we could give limitlessly to help these species, there’s only so much time, energy, and financial resources we have available, making it a bit sad to think of all the animals that need assistance. This blue feeling for me only was amplified by the description of just how terribly the species are doing in the natural world. It was hard to cherish the beauty of the cards only to be hit with the stark reality of the situation, as described in the guidebook. Nevertheless, honoring these species and doing our part is the only way forward, even when the process brings up eco-grief.

I would most recommend this deck to those interested in a meditative or devotional practice, especially one focused on planetary healing and connection with nature. Individually, the cards are great for focusing on a species in need of care and attention, which one can then direct their healing and loving energies towards. Within a group, the cards are a wonderful focus for shared contemplation and discussion about threatened or endangered species and the key roles they play in ecology. There’s plenty of creative ways to work with the deck that certainly can inspire, raise awareness, and make a meaningful change on behalf of these species’ well-being.

All in all, The Sacred Biodiversity Oracle is a thoughtful and contemplative deck that stands out for its ecological purpose and artistic depth. Manno’s background in icon painting infused with ecological philosophy gives the deck a ritualistic and reverent quality, making it more like a devotional tool than a standard oracle deck.

For those called to foster empathy for the natural world, this deck invites sacred contemplation and serves as a bridge between spiritual practice and environmental awareness. The deck beautifully emphasizes the interconnectedness between species and ecosystems, reminding us that no life exists in isolation. Through action-oriented reflection, including QR codes that connect directly to real-world conservation efforts, it transforms insight into tangible support for the planet.

Plant Spirits Oracle, by Laura Aversano and Nadine Gordon-Taylor

Plant Spirits Oracle, by Laura Aversano and illustrated by Nadine Gordon-Taylor
Bear & Company, 9781591435303, 40 cards, 128 pages, November 2025

Plant Spirits Oracle by Laura Aversano with illustrations by Nadine Gorgon-Taylor is a captivating and spiritually rich oracle deck that invites users to connect deeply with the wisdom and healing energies of the plant kingdom. Combining beautifully illustrated cards with insightful guidebook messages, Aversano’s creation is a great companion to her book The Divine Nature of Plants.

Laura Aversano is a medium and medical intuitive who has studied plant medicine and worked with the spirit realm for more than thirty years.  She has written three books and lives in New York City with her cats. You can learn more about her on her website.

Nadine Gordon-Taylor is an intuitive artist who holds both MFA and doctorate degrees in art.  She has taught for more than 30 years through lectures and workshops.  Her artwork has been shown in galleries and collections around the world. She owns a gallery called Third Eye Arts in Peekskill, NY. She has created three oracle decks and contributed to several other decks. Learn more about Gordon-Taylor through her website.

This deck includes 40 full-color cards, including 30 plant spirit cards and 10 shamanic healing cards. Each card is a miniature art piece, depicting a plant or scene within a unique frame. The borders are also decorated with birds, moonscapes, wildflowers or angels. The back of the cards features a bright, yellow calendula flower.  At the bottom of the flower is the face and arms of a tiny green creature. (On the calendula card, you can see four plant spirits, including this one, which is being held aloft by one of his spirit friends!)

A visually striking deck, each card features mystical and ethereal illustrations that capture the essence of the plant spirit it represents. The artwork is both vibrant and subtle, balancing the physical characteristics of each plant with elements that suggest their spiritual qualities. The cards are of good quality, with a smooth finish that makes shuffling easy. The box and accompanying guidebook are sturdy and thoughtfully designed.

Aversano includes an introduction, how to work with the cards and a brief discussion of plant spirits and elementals:

“In healing with plants, we are working with the vibration as well as with the spirit. The spirit gives the plant its healing qualities and will also share with you, both verbally and nonverbally how to heal with it. Plant spirit medicine works vibrationally, both in your body and within the many layers of your auric field.”5

She also shares communication tips for working with plants and with these cards.  To further assist the reader, Aversano has included a prayer channeled from each plant’s spirit to help you discover your personal connection to the divine plant kingdom. 

The ten shamanic healing cards are included to guide you even deeper on your journey into sacred connection with Nature’s plant world. She includes topics such as Relationships, The Past and Gratitude within these special cards.  

The card called Creation really spoke to me, as I pulled it one morning during the holiday season.  The card features two people facing each other, holding hands.  Two parrots are shown at the bottom of the art piece. A beautiful pink flower adorns the top of the card, looking almost like a round, stained glass window. 

Aversano invites me to look deeply at all of my relationships, including those with my own “inner dialogue.”6 What strikes me as I look at the card now is the idea that the two beings could be mirror images. I welcome this invitation to meet myself and see another layer to this card. 

Laura Aversano’s guidebook is more than a simple set of card interpretations. Each plant spirit is accompanied by spiritual guidance and practical suggestions for integrating the card’s teachings into daily life. Aversano’s background as a medical intuitive and medium shines through in the depth and compassion of her writing. 

What truly sets Plant Spirits Oracle apart is its emphasis on the direct relationship between the user and the plant spirits. The interior of the guidebook reads “a journey through the magic, medicine and wisdom of the natural world.”7 Rather than focusing solely on traditional meanings or folklore, Aversano encourages personal reflection, meditation, and even ritual work with the cards. This makes the deck especially appealing to those interested in shamanic practices, herbalism, or plant-based spirituality.

This oracle deck is ideal for anyone seeking a deeper connection to nature, whether you are a seasoned intuitive, a beginner oracle reader, or a lover of plants. It can be used for daily draws, meditation, or as a companion to other divination practices. Its messages are gentle yet profound, offering guidance for personal growth, healing, and spiritual exploration.

Overall, Plant Spirits Oracle by Laura Aversano is a beautifully crafted tool for those wishing to engage with the plant spirits. Its combination of soft, ethereal art, heartfelt writing, and spiritual insight makes it a valuable addition to any oracle deck collection. Whether you are seeking inspiration, healing, or a new way to commune with nature, this deck offers a pathway to deeper understanding and connection. She shares this with the reader:

“The plant does not have to be in your actual physical space to give you its medicine. It might take a while for you to feel connected, but once you do, you will begin to notice a shift in your body. . . . Allow the plant spirit to take you on journeys into other worlds as well as deeply into yourself.”8

The Original Zodiac, by Graham Phillips

The Original Zodiac: What Ancient Astrology Reveals About You, by Graham Phillips
Bear & Company, 9781591435419, 208 pages, October 2025

The Original Zodiac by Graham Phillips is a fascinating exploration into the origins of astrology, delving deep into the ancient roots of the zodiac signs and their historical significance. Known for his investigative approach to historical mysteries, Phillips brings readers on a journey to uncover the beginnings of the zodiac as we know it today. In this book, he takes us back to Mesopotamia to unearth eighteen signs of the zodiac. 

Phillips is one-part historical detective and one-part adventurer, as he weaves together thought-provoking works on some of the greatest myths and legends of all time. He has penned books on King Arthur, Mother Mary, and the origins of Judaism, among others. Once a reporter for BBC radio, he also appeared in numerous TV documentaries and mini-series on similar topics. He lives in the Midlands of England. Learn more about him on his website.

Phillips sets out to challenge conventional wisdom about the zodiac, proposing that its origins lie not in Babylonian or Greek tradition as commonly believed, but much further back in time and in different cultures. The book is meticulously researched, drawing on archaeological findings, ancient texts, and astronomical observations to build a compelling case for a much older and, perhaps, more mysterious origin of astrological symbolism.

Instead of the well-known zodiac signs, Phillips “uncovers the original 18-sign zodiac, an ancient system that predates the familiar 12-sign zodiac by millennia.”1 In doing his research, Phillips finds and presents evidence that our birth date and time reveal much about each of us. While the Greeks created the 12-sign system we use today, the ancient ones in Mesopotamia used 20 degrees for each sign, thus eighteen symbols. They also assigned an animal to each sign.

“So, this 18-sign zodiac is thousands of years older than the one we are familiar with today. We don’t know what specific stars were incorporated into constellations to represent each of those ancient signs. Still, we know that the list began at the spring equinox and that the subsequent year was divided into 18 divisions of some 20 days each. These, therefore, appear to be the sacred creatures of the original Mesopotamian zodiac, with the dates covered by each birth sign.”9

Phillips writes how the oldest description of this 18-sign zodiac is on a clay tablet dating back to 686 BCE. Found in Mosul, an area in Northern Iraq once the ancient city of Nineveh, this artifact now resides in the British Museum. Basing his date calculator on this artifact and axis progression, Phillips was able to calculate the birth dates each sign falls within. While no artifacts or records exist detailing this original zodiac, Phillips recreated it based on his extensive research.

Over the course of several years, Phillips used his list of eighteen signs and collected tons of data. He writes how he “compiled an in-depth survey, recording people’s attitudes, opinions, likes, dislikes, hobbies, pastimes, employment, health, and many other factors, and found that those born in each sign did appear to share common traits well beyond what should be expected by chance.”10 He used this information to create his own interpretations of the 18-sign original zodiac. This approach is quite fascinating and reading the entries for each sign was insightful.

Instead of a Sagittarius Sun, as I am in the traditional zodiac, I am a Goat in this system. I read the section and agree with most of the qualities and characteristics Phillips presents. However, he makes several comments about physical qualities that didn’t fit.

Since my birthday is close to a cusp, or dividing line, chosen by Phillips, I decided to look at the sign prior to Goat, which is Horse. As I read the qualities of Horse, I began to see that I was a mix of both signs. The adventurous spirit of the Horse and the dedication of the Goat combine with other traits to create me!

Next, I read the section on Serpent to check the characteristics and qualities for my husband. For the most part, Phillips was accurate in his assessment. The only thing I found incorrect was the reference to “few suffer from digestive complaints.”11 My husband has a series of digestive problems and has struggled with these most of his life. The author’s reference to “intuition, imagination and versatility”12 for those born under the sign of the Serpent though is accurate for my husband. 

Phillips brings his book together with notes that cover sources for much of his research as well as a two-page bibliography with even more information for those who would be interested in further study. The book is well researched; his dedication to the multi-year data collection project of numerous people and their lives is impressive. Phillips has created something to give modern day astrology students and practitioners a new way to view the zodiac signs and their meaning. 

Overall, The Original Zodiac is a thought-provoking and ambitious work that will appeal to anyone interested in ancient history, mythology, and astrology. Phillips offers a compelling argument for re-examining the roots of the zodiac, combining meticulous research with an engaging narrative style. While some of his conclusions may be open to debate, the book succeeds in sparking curiosity and offering new perspectives on an ancient topic that continues to fascinate people today.

By questioning established beliefs, Phillips encourages readers to think critically about the history of astrology and its cultural impact. If you are intrigued by the mysteries of the past and enjoy books that challenge conventional wisdom, this book is certainly worth reading.

Sacred Forest Bathing, by Ellen Dee Davidson

Sacred Forest Bathing: The Healing Power of Ancient Trees and Wild Places, by Ellen Dee Davidson
Bear & Company, 1591435471, 224 pages, April 2025

Sacred Forest Bathing: The Healing Power of Ancient Trees and Wild Places by Ellen Dee Davidson will guide you through the forest while revealing its powerful healing benefits. Each chapter has profound wisdom, helpful advice, and activities to help us connect with nature on a deeper level. Davidson also shares her whimsical forest adventures too as well as others experiences with nature!

This book truly teaches us how to connect with the forest and listen to what it has to say. Within the first three chapters, we learn to tune into nature’s healing frequency through connection. Davidson recommends connecting with a specific spot at least twice a month and setting aside a couple of hours to spend here in nature.She notes this location doesn’t even have to be a forest–any wild places will do!

Davidson provides some awesome tips and information throughout. For instance, she mentions some good reminders on safety, such as knowing the hazards of your surroundings before proceeding with your meditation, remembering to be aware of your surroundings, checking for ticks, and so on. Davidson also tells us about the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy, which I’ll be looking into more because I was unaware of them until I started reading this book! We also learn about the significance of the healing powers of trees in some different cultures.

In chapter five, we learn something about coral reefs that I found interesting: the musical sounds of fish apparently help coral reefs thrive! This is important to know because we gain more guidance towards the end not about a forest but bodies of water! This is my favorite form of nature therapy. Here’s what Davidson has to say about bodies of water:

“Blue spaces have similar powerful healing effects to being in forests. Time by rivers, oceans, lakes, waterfalls, and even fountains is shown to boost mood, lower stress, and increase health and well being.”12

This is indeed all very true. In personal experience, I could leave the house in a bad mood and then spending three hours near a stream would help me greatly.

Nature truly heals. We see this in chapter one where Davidson talks about her health. But, moving forward, chapter seven presents us with Davidson’s experience hiking after some storms, choosing a less popular trail. She shares with us this lovely wisdom:

“I get up again for another easy stretch of trail, knowing that we face many obstacles, but the flowers are still blooming and they are worth our attention.”13

We continue our journey with Davidson, sharing her experiences out in the woods. In chapter nine she get into some deep topics about how the Hopi believe that we are in the fourth world and how this world will end in violent weather and turn to the fifth world. Truly some interesting stuff to dive into deeper at some point in my freetime! She shares this on the whole idea of this evolution:

“And all prophecies indicate that realizing the potential for our evolution into a more peaceful world depends on the choices we make.”14

Very well spoken wisdom once more!!

Chapter ten we learn about her experience with Celtic nature magic, which she describes further into chapter twelve. As we keep reading, we get to read more of Davidson’s experiences with other intuitive individuals. She shares some more of her personal experiences, such as her dreams, what she experiences while meditating in the forest near one of her trees, as well as one walk where she finds a baby owl. As a side note, I also love and appreciate how each tree she forms a bond with has a specific name like “Grandmother Dragon Tree”!

At the end of each chapter is a section called “Forest Guidance”, which gives us some activities to try out. My favorite one that I tried out was on page 134, which opens readers up to the idea of your chosen spot being a realm of imagination. This was really fun to just let go and go back to a childlike sense of wonder and creativity once again.

I took the time to read this book for a week and follow many of these activities. This book truly gave me some fun and magical experiences. I sincerely appreciate the moments of reflection and insight I had. The guidance you receive out of these makes you very whole and complete; I would also even add satisfaction. I began feeling more connected to the places I’ve already felt deeply connected with! I’m very pleased with how much this book has been teaching me more about healing with nature. I’ve only been healing with nature for a few years now, and it seems like there’s a lot more to know–Davidson is the perfect guide!

In conclusion, I believe anyone can benefit from reading Sacred Forest Bathing. Davidson proves through her research and personal experience how nature is a powerful force that can help us heal. Even if you are skeptical, hear me out when I say that through my own experience reading this book that everything written will most definitely guide you along your healing journey. This book was such a good read and I highly recommend it.

Elemental Goddess Oracle, by Bronwyn Millar

Elemental Goddess Oracle, by Bronwyn Millar
Bear & Company, 1591435455, 216 pages, 45 cards, May 2025

Elemental Goddess Oracle, created by Bronwyn Millar, is a spiritual tool designed to empower individuals through the sacred energies of the five natural elements from Chinese medicine, as well as the four elements of Western energy. This exquisite deck offers a blend of artistry, intuition, and mystical insight and is “channeled from dimensions where the sacred feminine and the sacred masculine are balanced.”1

Millar is from Johannesburg, South Africa and was educated at the Johannesburg Art Foundation. She sketches from photos and then paints with oils on canvas and board. She is also a kinesiologist, who works with the five natural elements in her practice with clients. After an experience with psilocybin, Millar discovered the healing wisdom of interdimensional goddesses and began to sketch and paint her visions. She lives in South Africa.

The deck is arranged in five sections, each representing one of the five natural elements: wood, water, earth, fire and metal. In the guidebook, Millar explains the five natural elements, how each relates to specific organs and systems of the body, and how they work together to regulate the chi, or life force energy.  She also explains her inclusion of the four Western elements and how these are complementary:

“Because the goddesses have emerged from different dimensions, their elemental language is complex; It is truly multidimensional. Five or four elements alone would give us less to work with and combinations of both expand the scope of what the goddesses can communicate.”15

The first goddess Millar drew was Medusa, Goddess of the Loving Eye. This goddess captures the snake-like hair of Medusa, as well as a third eye and a prayerful pose. She embodies the Chinese element of fire and the Western element of earth. 

Slowly, Millar drew another goddess, and another, until she had twelve goddesses. At this point, she knew: “They were coming to this dimension from other dimensions where the divine balance is the case—and they had lessons for us about how powerful the divine feminine is when she is in her power.” 16 

After she had drawn 45 goddesses, the beautiful beings organized themselves into the five areas of the natural elements and she began muscle testing for “each Goddess’s meridians, acupoints, emotions and Western elements. . . . I would then, again with very little conscious thought, write the Goddess’s accompanying text and exercises.”17

The cards are true works of art. Each card includes a goddess, which is a combination of pencil sketch and rich, bold colors. Most of the faces are shown only as a pencil sketch and it is interesting how this technique breathes real life into each of the beautiful creatures. Millar numbers each card, names the goddess, provides a brief, healing phrase and lists the Chinese and Western elements.

Within the guidebook, Millar recaps all the information shown on the card and adds key words, a paragraph of guidance, an acupoint for healing, a practice to utilize the acupoint, and an affirmation. The rich text allows you to deepen your spiritual practice and connect with the natural elements. Whether you want to select a card and only read the guidance or fully immerse yourself in the experience and add the acupoint practice and affirmation is up to you. Millar also includes ideas for spreads and ways to integrate the wisdom into your daily life.

The guidebook is organized for easy navigation, providing a table of contents and listing the cards within the five natural elements and in number order.  Once you know the number of your card, it is easy to find in the guidebook, either by thumbing through the book or checking the table of contents.  The cards also have a color band at the bottom to designate the Chinese element, such as red for the fire element. I really appreciate these tools to help the card reader to find the information and understand even more about each Goddess.  

To test drive the deck, I allowed Facebook friends to blindly select one of three cards. Later, I shared each goddess and the message from the guidebook.  The feedback was very positive: 

D.A. got Goddess of Walking the Way and wrote: “Middle card is spot on!  That was fun!”

M.H. received Goddess of the Forest and responded: “Thank you for this today. I chose the left card, and it was a spot-on affirmation. I was let go from my job last Thursday with no rationale and caught completely off guard. My guides have been giving me signs it was time to move on and then this happened. Meanwhile, I’ve started an online boutique and I’m doing my first vendor fair this Friday night to sell personalized crafts. This card resonated so well and literally lifted off the screen for me to pick it.  Please let the publisher know they are well done.”

S.M. chose Goddess of Truest Self and replied: “Interesting this is my card. I have been becoming more into my truest self and feel that I am more authentic and in touch with God and my path than ever before.”  

The cards in the deck are printed on a high-quality cardstock with a glossy finish.  The cards are standard oracle deck size, and the box is a sturdy two-part design that easily houses both the cards and the guidebook. The box colors are vibrant, with turquoise accents and an orange interior. The back of the cards features a beautiful kaleidoscope design against a hot pink background. The colors of this deck are truly stunning!  

I love the beauty, wisdom, and healing found in Elemental Goddess Oracle.  Whether you are a seasoned reader or a newcomer to oracle decks, this deck offers a rich and healing experience. Millar has created a true gem that invites us to explore the divine feminine and the elemental forces that correspond with life itself. The combination of stunning artwork, thoughtful structure, and insightful wisdom creates a holistic tool for spiritual growth and empowerment. Millar’s passion and expertise shine through in every aspect of this deck, making it not just a tool but a work of art and a source of divine wisdom.

As Millar shares in the introduction:

“Each reader will find a different meaning in the cards.  . . . The elements are merely the symbolic language that has been translated into the scripts for you. Without the elemental alchemy of the marriage of East and West, these messages would not have been as layered, and their multidimensionality is part of the hidden, yin, complexities of the feminine.”18

Crystal Clear Oracle, by Nadine Gordon-Taylor

Crystal Clear Oracle: Loving Guidance from the Mineral Kingdom, by Nadine Gordon-Taylor
Bear & Company, 9781591434849, 40 cards, 166 pages, December 2023

With the Crystal Clear Oracle: Loving Guidance from the Mineral Kingdom, intuitive artist Nadine Gordon-Taylor has combined 44 well known crystals and minerals with beautiful symbols from plants, animals, elementals, and ancient symbols to provide unique guidance for our lives.

This deck is the third deck created by Gordon-Taylor, who holds both MFA and doctorate degrees in art.  She has taught for more than 30 years through lectures and workshops.  Her artwork has been shown in galleries and collections around the world. She owns a gallery called Third Eye Arts in Peekskill, NY.  Learn more about her through her website https://www.thethirdeyestudio.com/meet-the-artist.

As someone who has been studying crystals for over 20 years, I was immediately drawn to this deck. Unlike most crystal oracle decks, this deck also features many different symbols on each card. You can choose to focus only on the crystal or mineral for a quick message or add layers to the guidance by reading about each symbol featured. Here is just one example of the symbols on these cards. (I’ve added brief information from the guidebook, as well.)   

“CRYSTAL:  Hanksite
Moniker:  The Earthy Supporter
Key words: Cleansing, grounding, and heightened sense of reality
Mineral content: Rare potassium sulfate
Healing properties: Realignment of your etheric chakra system. Hold me over any area of your body that feels unbalanced and needs healing.

SYMBOLS:
Capybara: You function best with others.
Beaver:  Follow your intuition on new projects.
Tulips: Rebirth, and two tulips mean you might want to look for balance and partnership.
Honeybees:  Examine your productivity with dedication, hard work, and collaboration.
Full Moon:  There is new information and brilliant epiphanies for you.
Viaduct:  Watch for opportunities for transition and change.
Earth: Look to your home planet for support.
Shooting Star: Your wishes will inevitably come true!
Affirmation: I am on the right track to my spiritual destination”19

As you can see, Gordon-Taylor weaves lots of guidance and encouraging information about each crystal or mineral, as well as the symbols she has chosen for each card.

Each card is brilliantly painted in a very realistic style.  I’ve seen artists attempt to draw or paint crystals and miss the mark. This is not the case with Gordon-Taylor. Each one of her renderings of the crystals and minerals is as realistic as any photo. She is very talented when it comes to painting the crystals and minerals as they appear in nature. She uses fine detail, shading, and an authentic depiction of the crystal in a traditional shape to present each crystal or mineral. Two of my favorite depictions in these cards are fluorite and aquamarine. 

The back of the card box declares that the cards are “intricately illustrated,”20 and this is true! She also uses different border colors to accent the pictorial layouts. The cards are a large format, measuring 4” inches by almost 6” inches. The back of the cards features a magnified view of an iolite crystal. 

As I’ve mentioned with the example for Hanksite above, the guidebook contains a wealth of information, with two to three pages per mineral. The messages are written in first person, from the point of view of each crystal. For example for Hanksite she relates:

“I am Hanksite, a rare potassium sulfate mineral, and I connect you with the Earth.  I am commonly found beneath the surface, embedded in mud or drill cores.”21

Gordon-Taylor utilizes different colors for the type in the Table of Contents, as well as the passages for each crystal. This makes the various headings really pop! Each card is also shown in the guidebook with a small four-color photo. She ends the guidance with three affirmations for each crystal.

The Table of Contents is laid out in alphabetical order and includes the name of the crystal, the moniker, key words and page number. This layout is brilliant because you can open the guidebook and run your finger down the page and select a crystal randomly for yourself or others, without taking the cards with you. In the Introduction, Gordon-Taylor shares her long history with minerals and her goal for this deck: 

“The constructive and positive messages found in this book allow you to access new and loving energies that inspire, empower, and heal. These messages come directly from the crystals that appear in each image.”22

Gordon-Taylor also shares how to use the cards, including different ways to clear the cards, spreads for use with the cards and the use of a sketchbook as a journal. At the back of the guidebook, she includes a 30-page glossary with words and phrases about crystals and minerals, as well as spiritual terms. The cards are stored in a beautiful box with an indentation for the cards, ample room for the guidebook and a magnetic clasp. 

These cards arrived in the mail and I didn’t have the chance to glance through them before my husband and I left to attend a gem and mineral show. I came home with three crystals (mangano, calcite, septarian) and an ammonite tray. When I pulled out these cards the next morning for my daily draw, I drew the card Ammonite!

For my friend Ann, I drew the card: Chrysanthemum Stone. This stone is known as The Karmic Liberator and references intuition, optimism and akashic records.

Ammonite helps you release the past and welcome change, evolution, and personal growth. According to Gordon-Taylor, ammonite is “The Ancient Emancipator,” and aids in “adapting to a new, exciting timeline and a new version of yourself.”23

“You have chosen this card because you are a beautiful soul experiencing challenging situations. You also want to feel joy again. I can help you reset your energy grid. Hold me in your hands when meditating and burrow deep into your intuition . . . You are here at this time to work out issues balancing the mind and heart.”24

My friend has had some challenges lately, and just accepted a new temporary position with a hospital in another state.  She loved the encouragement that she received from this stone, as well as from the symbology of the eagles, groundhogs, cherry tree, infinity symbol and the ankh.  I sent her a photo of the card and the verbiage for even more support. 

Crystal Clear Oracle is great for any level of oracle reader or crystal student. With the depth of the information about each crystal or mineral, as well as the reference materials on the various symbols, anyone can benefit from the knowledge shared by Gordon-Taylor. You can focus only on the crystal or read further and integrate all the information for a complete guidance session. I can see myself using these cards to add a footnote to a client reading or pull a card for myself when I’m troubled by a situation.

The Aquarian Shaman, by Linda Star Wolf

The Aquarian Shaman: Walking the Spiral Path of Transformation, by Linda Star Wolf
Bear & Company, 1591435145, 192 pages, September 2024

The Aquarian Shaman: Walking the Spiral Path of Transformation by Linda Star Wolf is a captivating exploration of shamanic practices and their relevance in the modern age as humanity undergoes a major shift in consciousness. Star Wolf, a seasoned shamanic practitioner, presents a guide that combines ancient wisdom with contemporary insights, aiming to assist readers in navigating the transformative energies of the Aquarian age. Offering tools and practices to awaken reader’s inner Aquarian Shaman, Star Wolf serves as a midwife for others during this quantum shift.

Star Wolf begins the book with a heartfelt introduction that shares her background with shamanic work and what called her to write this book. She provides the context for her terms “Aquarian Shaman” and bridges the past and present of shamanic work, illuminating for readers the sacred history of shamanic elders she’s worked with, while also encouraging readers to follow present callings to undergo this inner journey for the purpose of creating a better world.

“For me, the Aquarian Shaman is one who humbly learns from the timeless, sacred wisdom passed to them by respected elders. The true Aquarian Shaman has also learned, or remembered, how to listen and to trust their inner healer and guide, and has found a path back to wholeness.”25

Central to the book is the concept of the Aquarian Age—a period characterized by rapid change and spiritual awakening. Star Wolf suggests that the energies of this age offer unique opportunities for transformation and healing. She encourages readers to embrace these energies, using them as a catalyst for personal evolution. Star Wolf teaches how becoming an Aquarius Shaman can assist readers in navigating the emergence of this new time, even contributing to its emergence by cultivate the inner sight that shifts collective awareness.

While the idea of becoming a shaman, something a highly revered position in many cultures, might seem like a daunting task, Star Wolf teaches tools to aid readers in reaching this level of consciousness and integrating their practice into their daily life with ease. Star Wolf delves deeply into shamanic technique, providing an overview of rituals, ceremonies, and tools that have been used by shamans for centuries. She teaches how these timeless techniques are just as potent today, providing a roadmap for embarking on their own shamanic journeys.

“As we move beyond relying solely on external authorities for answers, we’re now embracing the chance to find wisdom within and assume greater personal responsibility. In order to enable a massive Aquarian consciousness shift, a great number of us must take part in this profound evolution.”26

Star Wolf’s approach is both empowering and accessible, making the practices applicable to individuals at any stage of their spiritual journey. In “Section 2: Shamanic Medicine Tools and Practices” there are chapters dedicated to connecting with nature, opening one’s heart, being in circle with others, communing with sacred objects,  creating meaningful altars, connecting with totem animals, and working with the medicine wheel. At the end of each chapter there is a “shamanic exercise” that readers can perform. The focus on this section is the external, while the following section focuses on internal tools. I found this distinction very useful when moving through the Aquarian Shamanic process.

“Section 3: The “Inner Tools” to Awaken the Aquarian Shaman Within” invites readers to use their imagination, one of the greatest tools we all have within; she especially focuses on the mythic imagination and the value of working with archetypes for transformation. Star Wolf also details the Shamanic Healing Initiatory Process (SHIP) she created in 2000 for those “seeking structured shamanic training.”27 This impactful process involves within with the archetypal energies and embodying the five elements (water, earth, fire, spirit, and air). This process culminates in an inner metamorphosis, similar to a kundalini awakening. As with the previous section, there are shamanic exercises readers can do for personal initiation.

Working with the elements in this way was a powerful experience. I really felt my relationship with them deepen, and I had different revelations with each one. I suggest taking one’s time moving through this section, as certain elements can be challenging for us, showing where we might need healing before we integrate the energy. It took me almost two weeks to feel ready to move to the final sixth step in the process. There’s absolutely no rush when undergoing this potent initiation process!

“A new heightened consciousness unfolds when we focus our imagination to access inward wisdom, surrender to the inner journey, and then take action steps in the outer world to achieve what we have imagined.”28

The final section, “Section 4: Shamanic Experiences for a Quantum Shift”, brings all that reader has learned into the wider world. Star Wolf shares co-creative ways for Aquarian Shamans to connect with each other, including Shamanic Breathwork (“a highly experiential, ceremonial process that uses deep, circular breathing combined with chakra-attuned music to stir up, activate, and liberate energy held in the chakras29), pilgrimage to sacred sites, and seeking out shamanic communities for further growth.

Overall, The Aquarian Shaman is a valuable resource for anyone interested in shamanic practices and spiritual growth. The book’s blend of ancient wisdom and modern insights makes it a relevant and inspiring guide for navigating the challenges and opportunities of the Aquarian Age. Whether you’re new to shamanism or a seasoned practitioner, this book offers valuable guidance on the path to personal and spiritual transformation. Star Wolf’s positive and encouraging tone inspires readers to pursue the path of the Aquarian Shaman with confidence, offering a path to change within and discover others on this path to build co-creative communities as a new age emerges.

Magdalene Manifestation Cards, by Danielle Rama Hoffman

Magdalene Manifestation Cards: Create Abundance through Love, by Danielle Rama Hoffman and illustrated by Christine Lucas
Bear & Company, 9781591434801, 44 cards, 202 pages, May 2023

In creating the Magdalene Manifestation Cards: Create Abundance through Love deck, Danielle Rama Hoffman has brought keys and holograms for manifestation into the hands of everyone who chooses to work with these codes of light.

Hoffman is an author, channel, and coach, who has been on the leading edge of the evolution of consciousness for almost 30 years. Her clients are healers, coaches, and lightworkers. She has trained massage therapists, reiki masters, and Quantum Light practitioners, as well as led tours to Egypt and France.

Christine Lucas is the illustrator of the beautiful keys, holograms, and light codes. She assigns her lineage to the Ascended Masters Lineage of Thoth. Lucas worked closely with Thoth, the Magdalenes, the Codes of Love, and Danielle to bring these cards to life. Lucas is an intuitive artist, illustrator, and graphic designer, who also has a background in meditation. She loves nature, travel, photography, and music.

Initially attracted to these cards because of the Magdalenes. Then once I began to play with the energy of the cards, I really resonated with the light codes and glyphs that Lucas and Hoffman have created. The deck is divided into two sections: 1) Four Resource Codes and 2) Twenty Codes of Love. Within the Twenty Codes of Love, you’ll find a pair of cards for each concept. The total number of cards in the deck is 44.

Hoffman presents an extensive introduction to the cards, how they came to be created, and her almost 30-year journey with Thoth. She includes some of her journey entries from several different meetings with Thoth, both in France and Egypt. She also defines the Magdalenes:

“A group of love beings including Anna, Isis, Mary Magdalene, the black Madonna, and many galactic beings.”26

When she returned from Egypt in 2020 and the pandemic lockdown began, she started to transcribe more of the Magdalene Codes and work on creating this deck. In the introduction, she shares stories from clients and friends who worked with the codes to manifest incredible results in health, wealth, and business success.

Hoffman shares several ways to work with this deck, from simple one card readings to a tableau of 16 cards. I chose to work with a one-card reading for 3 days in a row. As Hoffman suggests, I pulled a card from the deck and then found its “pair” for a complete reading and activation of the love codes.

My first card was the key card: Ecstatic Bliss – Joyful Simplicity.

“It is a joy to be me. Bliss exists in every moment. Home in on what matters most to you. Simplify to amplify your results.”30

This card really hit home for me, in that we are in the midst of a Venus retrograde, which asks us to really look at what we value and what we really want, focusing on that and letting go of the rest.

Then, I looked through the deck for the second card, the pair to that key, and I found the hologram: Ecstatic Bliss – Signature Essence.

“The difference of you is what matters. Boldly shine your uniqueness for consistent, predictable manifestation.”31

This concept is also something I’ve really been focusing on over the past year as I’ve worked with a designer to revise my website and fine-tune my offerings to be more true to who I am. I am also learning to put myself out there more with my blog and other posts on social media.

The guidebook has even more guidance from the Magdalenes and Thoth for each card, such as this from the passage on Ecstatic Bliss – Signature Essence:

“Simple, elegant, streamlined. Steep in this hologram to reabsorb that which is no longer aligned with you so that it organically falls away, like leaves on a tree that know when it’s time to fall with grace, ease, and an exhale. What remains is Ecstatic Bliss.”32

Hoffman also includes what she calls an application for each of the hologram cards. This consists of some suggestions for integrating the message of the card. It may include a ritual, an exercise, or something to do in nature, among other things.

Next, I did readings for three friends with this deck. I pulled the cards and then sent them photos of the cards and brief messages from the guidebook. For one friend who was struggling with a recent move for her business, I drew Birthright of Love. The key card is Authentic Expression, and the hologram card is Openhearted Connection.

The guidance for the key card recommended that she bring in the energy of the four Resource Codes, so I sent her photos of those four cards, as well. The other guidance that she really took to heart:

“Take one loving action today, not because you have to, but because it is natural for Love to move through you.”33

From the hologram card, I read that it was time to call upon the Birthright of Love Code. This guidance was recommended for the start of a new project, which was relevant to my friend’s new location for her business. The guidance went on to suggest focusing on the following affirmation:

“I am loved. All my creations are loved. Love is a given in this situation.34

My friend loved the guidance from these cards and was planning to print out all six cards and use them in her workspace. She called me later to say she printed a second set of cards for her home!

The artwork on these cards and the colors selected are very beautiful. Jewel tones are used with bright colored accents, some of which are almost neon. Each of the pairs of cards share the same color scheme, which makes it easy to find the matching card within the deck.
For another friend, I drew two of the resource code cards: Yummy Money and Divine Relationships.

Her message was a combination of allowing money “do things for you and watch your mission thrive”35 and remembering that “you may require primary relationships with light beings, animals, nature and crystals.”36 The guidebook encouraged my friend to use the word “Yummy” or say “mmmmm” each time she said or thought about money. Doing so raises your vibration. My friend loved the guidance and loved the Yummy Money challenge!

In order to find the guidance, one must use the table of contents and search for the name of each of the Codes of Love. These are not listed in alphabetical order, which takes a little longer to find the correct code. Once you find the code, you’ll see that there is a number assigned to each pair. It would have been very helpful for the designer to incorporate this number on the cards.

Due to the complex nature of the cards, the guidance, and the system to use these cards, I feel that this deck is best suited to someone with several years’ experience working with either tarot or oracle cards. Or, someone who is learning light language or learning to work with Thoth or any ascended masters for manifestation or personal healing would also benefit from this deck.

Hoffman includes extensive information on how to best work with the cards, including the use of a 16-card tableau for what she calls “Multi-D Abundance.”37 She also includes directions for using the cards for both personal and professional relationships, changing your money story and enhancing your energy. I’ll look forward to utilizing Magdalene Manifestation Cards in some of my groups and with clients who want to change the energy around relationships, abundance or vitality.

Magdalene’s Ascension, by Annie Van Der Meer, Ph.D.

Magdalene’s Ascension: Mary’s Journey to Becoming Light, by Annine Van Der Meer, Ph.D.
Bear & Company, 1591435269, 416 pages, January 2025

Magdalene’s Ascension: Mary’s Journey to Becoming Light by Annine Van Der Meer, Ph.D., is a deep dive into early Christianity and the role Mary Magdalene had within it, specifically through her ascension process. Often misunderstood and overlooked in Christian narratives, Van Der Meer, a scholar with a profound understanding of religious history and feminine spirituality, embarks on a journey to shed light on the life and legacy of Mary Magdalene, portraying her as a pivotal figure in the spiritual realm.

Van Der Meer approaches the subject with rigor, combining biblical and early Christian canons, apocryphal texts of the Old and New testament, historical writing from classic antiquity, and alternative sources, such as channeled information and regression reports. Her work aims to uplift Mary Magdalene from the shadows of history, presenting her as a figure of light and wisdom. The book meticulously examines ancient texts, religious traditions, and historical contexts to reconstruct a more nuanced and empowering image of Mary Magdalene, while also drawing from a variety of channeled messages and regression reports that provide insights that have been missing from traditional texts.

As someone inclined to be a bit skeptical of the regressions, I felt more comfortable opening up to the idea while reading the first chapter “New Roads Open Up” in which Van Der Meer goes into great detail about others who have shared complied regressions that reveal insights into life during the time of Jesus. These include The Unknown Jesus by Joanne Klink, Jesus and the Essenes by Dolores Cannon, and The Essenes by Stuart Wilson and Joanna Prentis.

Additionally, I appreciated Van Der Meer’s explanation for “risking her reputation”1 focusing her work around The Gospel of the Beloved Companion, translated by Jehanne de Quillan, which is believed by some to be a first-century gospel of Mary Magdalene that has been preserved and kept hidden by “a closed Cathar community in western France”2. She states:

“My intuition, trained by a little less than fifty years of research into ancient pre- and early Christian texts, tells me that this text is pure and true, and this has been confirmed by measurements from spiritual radiesthesia…”38

The book is structured into seven portals (“Portal One”, “Portal Two”, and so on) that have between one to five chapters within. The early portals focus on Mary Magdalene’s personal ascension and then advance to her influence within collective ascension as the portals go higher. Throughout the book, Van Der Meer also included interludes between chapters where she shares specific historical sources, specifically separated from the alternative ones, to delve deeper into the topics discussed within the chapters.

There’s A LOT of information to absorb. Wanting to make sure I was fully comprehending everything, I moved extra slowly through this book, and I still feel I’ll often be going back again! Compared to other Mary Magdalene books I’ve read, such as Magdalene Mysteries by Seren and Azra Bertrand and The Magdalene Frequency  by Adele Venneri, this one is more scholarly; there’s a great amount of Christian historical context contained within, and it makes for a very illuminating read.

While the central theme of the book is Mary Magdalene’s transformation and ascension, Van Der Meer also shares information about the Essense community, the family of Jesus (Anna, Joseph of Arimathea, and Mother Mary), and what happened after Jesus’s crucifixion. She discusses what happened to Daniel and Joseph of Arimathea afterwards, as well as how Mary Magdalene continued on her spiritual journey, travelling to France. Van Der Meer even asserts based on her research that Jesus might have survived the crucifixion and continued on to Asia. There’s a lot to contemplate, as the information certainly rewrites the history most people believe to be true, and I commend Van Der Meer for being so transparent about her sources to give readers the opportunity to ponder these revelations themselves.

I really enjoyed the chapters in “Portal Seven” that covered the quantum physics of ascension, the current revolution in consciousness, and our collective ascension. For me, these chapters were the fascinating bridge between ancient history and the importance of uncovering this hidden knowledge in modern times. Van Der Meer writes:

“It was Love that brought the universe into being, and Love that sustains it and provides the impetus for change within the consciousness of the sentient beings. Whatever spiritual path you choose, the transformative energy of Unconditional Love is there to support and nourish that path and carry through the process of change and transformation within the heart.”39

Overall, Magdalene’s Ascension is a compelling read for anyone interested in religious studies, spirituality, and the role of women in religion. Van Der Meer offers a refreshing and enlightening take on Mary Magdalene, inviting readers to reconsider her significance within Christianity. This book not only enriches our understanding of Mary Magdalene but also inspires a deeper reflection on the themes of light, transformation, and spiritual ascension happening now. This work is a testament to the power of re-examining historical narratives within pioneering spiritual technologies and modern scientific insight.

The Council of Horses Oracle, by Sandra Wallin

The Council of Horses Oracle, by Sandra Wallin and illustrated by Kim McElroy
Bear & Company, 9781591434931, 40 cards, 192 pages, October 2024

In their wise and colorful deck, The Council of Horses Oracle, Sandra Wallin and Kim McElroy weave together guidance from our equine helpers with stunning artwork.

Sandra Wallin studied science and education, and earned a master’s degree in counseling psychology. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Ecopsychology. In her work, she pulls experience from three decades as a psychotherapist, teacher, and mentor.  Along with her work with horses, Sandra utilizes modalities such as Psych-K and Bruce Lipton’s Biology of Belief to work with women who are ready to walk a new path. Though she has studied with many amazing people, Wallin says her most influential teachers have been horses, whom she credits for taking her (and her clients) beyond her belief ceiling to a place where all things are possible.40

Illustrator and artist Kim McElroy has always been drawn to horses and began drawing them as soon as she could hold a crayon. McElroy combines her artistic talent with her love of horses and more than thirty years working with these beautiful creatures.  She has co-created another deck and guidebook, as well as a journal on horses.  Learn more about her at her website.

I was excited to open this deck because horses have always been of interest to me. As a child, I loved riding horses on my uncle’s farm, and I was born in the year of the horse.  When I met my husband more than twenty years ago, I gained a friend who worked with horses for more than twenty years at racetracks around the country.  Our granddaughter is also an accomplished horse rider. 

Sandra Wallin and Kim McElroy have combined their knowledge and experience to create a beautiful deck with wisdom that is both intuitive and practical.  The guidance provides a message, a story from the author’s experience, wisdom from the horses and questions to be used as journal prompts for more inner work. Each card’s guidance includes four to five pages of information and ends with a recap, which is called “The Invitation”. This short section sums up the key idea from each card. 

Wallin presents the deck with a short introduction and then shares how to work with the deck, including key questions to ask, how to get to know the cards, and different spreads to use.  She shares this information about how the art and words work together:

“There is a union between the art and the writing, which is akin to the synergy that happens when the horse and human come together. When you work with the cards in this way, it is like being with horses in their paddocks, pastures, and fields, smelling their sweet breath; feeling their footfalls on the ground beside you; and seeing yourself reflected in their fathomless eyes.”41

Wallin even provides three sample readings that show how to do a reading with the cards, as well as how the client responded to the guidance shared. 

One friend, whom I’ll call “C” drew the card Aenbharr and shared that this card and its guidance was a confirmation to follow her intuition and take herself on a new adventure. She further shared that she had really felt stuck or stymied recently and that she kept feeling that she was missing out on the magic in her life. This card and the invitation that it included held a challenge to let go of old beliefs and habits that were keeping her from “rediscovering the magic that exists within the world,”42 as the guidebook entry for the card reads.

To give the deck a trial run, I took the cards to my Friday Coffee & Cards group. Each of my friends chose a card and the smiles on their faces as they read the guidance was all I needed to see.

It is interesting to note that Wallin drew the artwork for this card; she is also credited with co-creating the artwork for another card with Kim McElroy.

Another friend, “D” drew the card Al-Buraq and shared that as part of her recent retirement, she felt she was simply going through the motions. There was no surprise that the questions posed by this card asked her to reflect on what she might need to change in her life, what she might be taking for granted, and what limits she might need to overcome. She wrote down the questions and said she would use these as journal prompts for exploration and growth. She particularly related to the Message for Humankind for this card:

“Believe in the reality of what you envision or experience regardless of what the external world might negate.”43 

The cards are standard oracle card size and printed on heavy, glossy card stock.  The cards are easy to shuffle and will stand up well to repeated use. For the back of the cards, McElroy chose a beautiful piece of horse art that seems to gallop off the card. It is framed by clouds and light rays and also features a burst of light at the horse’s heart center.

The guidebook is printed in black and white, with a thumbnail of each card shown with the guidance.  The guidebook is easy to navigate, as it is arranged in alphabetical order.  Wallin also includes a Table of Contents.

The Council of Horses Oracle would be great for horse enthusiasts or anyone who has an affinity for horses.  The guidance really transcends the subject matter and can be applied to daily life quite easily. If you want to do a quick reading, you can select a card, take note of the key words, and then jump to the “Invitation”, which recaps the wisdom shared by Wallin.  I intend to keep this deck close by to end client sessions and refer to it for my own encouragement.