Over the weekend, a few followers on Instagram asked for some recommended books or other resources for beginner tarot readers and witches. So I decided to make a blog post about it for easier reference!
Again, I make the disclaimer that I don’t really identify as a witch, but I have read a bunch of witchy things over the course of this odd little spiritual journey that have made an impact and helped me along the way. Take note that these are all references and books that I’ve read and used, so I may have missed a few that other tarot readers and magickal folk might recommend!
These are sorted into the following categories: The Craft (stuff on Wicca, witchcraft, and magick), Tarot (self-explanatory), and Astrology (also self-explanatory). Since this list is more for beginners, it covers the more general readings that I personally found easier to digest, and I left out the ones that are more complex or specialized.
The Craft
References on Wicca and witchcraft.
Weave the Liminal by Laura Tempest Zakroff
I don’t know exactly what it is about Weave the Liminal that I love so much. I just felt such a strong connection with the author and her Catholic schoolgirl background, and the way she wrote this book really built up my knowledge and confidence in creating my own personal craft that doesn’t exactly follow an existing Wiccan or Pagan path.
Where to get it: Amazon, Book Depository, Scribd subscription (audiobook and ebook)
The Modern Guide to Witchcraft: Your Complete Guide to Witches, Covens, and Spells by Skye Alexander
If you’re looking for something that gives you a fantastic overview of the history of witchcraft as well as ways to develop your own craft, this is ideal for you. It covers a lot of things without being an information overload.
Where to get it: Amazon, Book Depository, Scribd subscription (audiobook and ebook)
Everyday Witchcraft: Making Time for Spirit in a Too-Busy World by Deborah Blake
This book is a great one for most of us who live in the city and work full-time jobs and are so busy with family that we lose touch with ourselves and our spirituality.
Where to get it: Amazon, Book Depository, Scribd subscription (ebook)
Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner
I may have ended up not choosing to walk the Wiccan path, but this is a must-read for any young, aspiring Wiccan who doesn’t have their own coven or prefers to practice solo.
Where to get it: Amazon, Book Depository, Scribd subscription (ebook)
Tarot
References on tarot cards and readings. Splitting this further into three sections based on format.
Books
The Modern Witchcraft Book of Tarot by Skye Alexander
Another great reference book by Skye Alexander. This one covers everything you ever needed to know about tarot, and even includes a section on spell casting with tarot (take note that I don’t actually cast spells, but some of you might be interested).
Where to get it: Amazon, Book Depository, Scribd subscription (ebook), Fully Booked, Fully Booked Shopee, Fully Booked Lazada
WTF is Tarot? by Bakara Wintner
A very modern and approachable reference book for tarot. Great for beginners who want simple yet insightful and relatable guide to the cards and their meanings.
Where to get it: Amazon, Book Depository, Scribd subscription (ebook)
Tarot Plain and Simple by Anthony Louis
Of the three books here, I honestly think this one is the best for beginners. It lives up to its title in terms of simplicity of language, but it offers comprehensive definitions of each card with sections on how to interpret them in the context of situation/advice or a specific person.
Where to get it: Amazon, Book Depository, Scribd subscription (ebook)
Apps
Galaxy Tarot
A handy reference for anyone who wants to start their journey with the traditional Rider Waite Smith tarot. It covers the many interpretations of each card, along with notes on the specific symbols used in each card. It also shows you which cards share the same symbols, which is great for learning how each card relates to another in a reading.
Where to get it: Google Play Store
Labyrinthos
A very pretty, modern, and simple reference for tarot. The Galaxy Tarot might be a bit overwhelming for absolute beginners, so this is a good alternative. This one offers keywords and much shorter explanations of each card, and has short quizzes to help you remember what you’ve learned. You can also learn Lenormand through this app.
Where to get it: Apple App Store, Google Play Store
Websites and Podcasts
Biddy Tarot / Biddy Tarot Podcast
BiddyTarot.com is my favorite all-around online resource for anything tarot. Biddy Tarot’s content is very easy to digest, and talks about both the traditional meanings of the cards as well as fresher and more intuitive takes on each. And it’s not just all about card meanings too–they offer content on turning your tarot practice into a business, ethics, practices, spreads, and more.
Where to access: Website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Astrology
References on astrology.
Books
You Were Born for This: Astrology for Radical Self-Acceptance by Chani Nicholas
Great for beginners to astrology who want a quick and easy guide to astrology for self-work. Includes reflection questions that help you internalize the information about your signs.
Where to get it: Amazon, Book Depository, Scribd subscription (audiobook), Fully Booked Shopee
The Stars Within You: A Modern Guide to Astrology by Juliana McCarthy
Also great for beginners. A bit meatier than You Were Born for This, but not overwhelmingly so. McCarthy uses archetypes and mythological references to make it easier for beginners to understand each sign.
Where to get it: Amazon, Book Depository, Scribd subscription (audiobook), Fully Booked
Apps
Sanctuary Astrology
Sanctuary Astrology is a lighthearted, sassy, and relatable app that offers great information on astrology basics, as well as fun daily horoscopes delivered in a chat window-esque format.
Where to get it: Apple App Store, Google Play Store
Did I miss any of your recos? Share them in a comment below!