- Book Title: Tarot Every Witch Way
- Author: Lilith Dorsey
- Publisher: Llewellyn, July 2024 – Website
- Retail Price: $19.99 USD
- ISBN: 9780738776323
- Reviewed by: Mary du Plessis
From the publisher’s website: “Immerse yourself in the magic of tarot as Lilith Dorsey introduces you to the many ways it can complement your witchcraft.”
This simple but accurate statement belies the depth of information contained in Tarot Every Witch Way. In addition to providing a deep exploration into the symbolism and meaning of each card, correspondences of crystals, herb and plants, astrology, and animals are woven into each segment, along with the powerful healing powers of food and music.
The first chapter walks us through the history of the tarot, as well as it can be known, from its origins in Italy, through the myriad decks designed to appeal to a wide variety of witches today. The author provides a general description of the diverse ways witches identify themselves, which I found fascinating and helpful as I could ‘see’ where I might fit in. Even if you do not identify as a witch, you are likely to find a classification that defines how you see and move through the world. This exercise is meant as a first step as you embark on the magical journey that unfolds through the tarot in the pages to follow.
Section One follows the journey of the Major Arcana, from The Fool to The World. Each chapter includes a photo of the card from the Rider Waite Smith deck, an interpretation from a more contemporary deck and a discussion of the notable symbolism depicted on the card from other sources.
The summary of key words and meanings is concise and helpful, and the correspondences related to crystals, herbs, animals, and astrology expands on the basic definitions. A recipe for a magical oil associated with each card, and culinary recipes are meant to whet your appetite and provide another layer of experience to associate with the energy of the card. Also included is a handy spell, should you need inspiration or assistance in a magical working.
When you are ready to take your exploration of the tarot to an even deeper level, Lilith offers a beautiful, guided journey for each card. This is the perfect solitary exercise (tip: record yourself reading the meditation, then guide yourself), or one for a small group setting where you can take turns leading for each other.
Section Two takes us through the aspects of the Minor Arcana and offers insight into the card meanings, as well as an incense recipe and crystal correspondences for each of the four suits. While not as detailed as Section One, do not sleep on this information as it is imperative to form a well-rounded reading.
Section Three includes several chapters meant to bring a holistic approach to your tarot practice by combining the information contained in the first two chapters and layering in other aspects, such as: how to choose and connect to your deck, building and maintaining a tarot altar or shrine, how to use the various correspondences, and reading basics, questions and spreads.
Whether you are new to tarot and/or witchcraft, or a seasoned practitioner, this integrated approach to the cards and the ritual of reading tarot will both heighten your practice and deepen your understanding of how and why it ‘works.’ The additional bibliography and reference section of culinary and magical recipes, meditations and spell work will keep this book at the front of your go-to library as you will want to refer to it often. The best part is how you can use the information to engage with your community. Cook the food, prepare the incense, grab your cards and crystals, and bring your people together for a gathering of tarot and friendship.
Lilith Dorsey, MA, has focused their study and practice on Celtic, Afro-Caribbean, and Indigenous American spirituality. They are filmmaker of the experimental documentary Bodies of Water and choreographer/performer for jazz legend Dr. John’s “Night Tripper” Voodoo Show. They have long been committed to providing accurate and respectful information about Magic and are proud to be a published Black author of such titles as Voodoo and African Traditional Religion; 55 Ways to Connect to Goddess; The African-American Ritual Cookbook; Love Magic; the bestselling Orishas, Goddesses and Voodoo Queens; and the award winning Water Magic. Visit them at https://LilithDorsey.com.
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