[.ca] Cosmic Tarot Deck & Book Set: 78-Card Deck with Book(s) (ISBN 0880791837)

an excellent deck for inner work:
German artist Norbert Loesche has produced a set of creative and highly evocative images for this deck, which follows the same interpretative framework as the Crowley's Thoth deck. Although the images draw from several eras and cultures (some figures are patterned on modern icons, such as movie stars), they hold together in a kind of turn-of-the-century continental ambience. The faces on the cards show more personality than in just about any other deck. In addition, the artist has an excellent appreciation of the relation of Tarot to qabalah and astrology, so the deck is not superficial in the least. The book (by Jean Huets) reflects some careful study by the author of this particular deck, and is highly recommended, as the "common" Rider-Waite interpretations do not always fit well. This is an excellent first deck, because the artwork makes the ideas so accessible. It will also be rewarding to the serious Tarot student and reader, particular if your interest is in inward, spiritual work (the deck has a rather introspective focus, sometimes challenging or disturbing). It may be less suitable for reading for querents who expect an antique style and a fortune-telling slant.

Suitable for the more modern among us:
Would your idea of good fortune encompass things like a full voicemail box, or ending up as a dentist who actually pays off those student loans? A Waite-type deck, only even easier to interpret, with lots of additional material from a talented counselor. The descriptions of card combinations can launch you past fortunetelling by rote into new territory ...

Simply Beautiful:
Preferences for Tarot decks are very subjective, so I don't know exactly what to say to encourage this one. I will say that I like the Rider-Waite deck, but wanted something a bit more creative without being too crazy. This deck is that--creative, but not crazy. Some say that the characters are certain people like Tom Cruise, etc. I didn't recognize anyone and have avoided reading anything that tells me which cards are "supposed" to be whom. It's speculation, and I doubt it is true. The cards are rich in symbolism, exquisitely drawn, and very thought provoking. You may go through a lot of decks before you find "your" deck. Looking at this one would not be a waste of time. I have seen A LOT of cards and spent A LOT of money. This deck is unique, grounded in reality, but definitely metaphysical. The pictures make sense. I had never grasped a meaning before without looking at a book...

My favorite deck:
I've had the cosmic tarot for about 9 years. It was my second deck after my "training" deck with the Ryder-Waite deck. Many of the images are very bold, vivid and at times intense, but the colors are wonderful. One of my favorite cards is the Sun which is the spitting image of my best friend's niece when she was younger. There are many images that look like famous people, whether intentional or not, it does gives it a modern look. The accompanying book is ok, I would recommend "The Cosmic Tarot: Signposts Along the Path" by Laura Clarson. I think she gives a more accurate description of the cards and what everyday events you can relate them to. If you get them, you won't be disappointed!