Finding the Fool: A Tarot Journey to Radical Transformation

Autostraddle columnist Wall debuts with an introspective introduction to tarot card reading, positioning it as a tool for self-discovery. Raised in a hyperreligious family in which “ ‘magic’ was considered a dirty word,” Wall came across tarot in her mid-20s after a bout of depression sent her looking for meaning. What she found was “a sacred tool used by people of all backgrounds... something that anyone could learn.” In explaining the practice, Wall emphasizes interpretative latitude and telling one’s stories within the “cycles and structures” of the cards. First, she discusses each of the Major Arcana (22 tarot archetypes meant to offer insight into major life turning points), assigning each an astrological sign and number. Next, she delves into the Minor Arcana (56 cards that speak to day-to-day lives). Each entry includes guidance for reading the card, and journal prompts to help readers better understand individual signs. Wall’s flexible approach lets readers tailor a tarot practice that works for them; she also foregrounds inclusivity, rendering cards without gendered images and including a list of tarot resources that center marginalized communities. Beginners and experienced tarot readers will welcome the author’s perspective. (Mar.)