James Ricklef’s Tarot Tells the Tale is well-known for its collection of entertaining and instructive readings done for literary characters. They really are effective learning tools. Because they are the main focus, people might forget or overlook the fact that this book is also a great general “beginner” book. Before delving into the readings, James covers all the basics, so even if you’ve never done a reading before, you’ll have all the information you need to get started. Of course, James includes a discussion of reversed cards, which I thought I’d share part of it with you. The rest of the book is just as succinct and useful. It really is a treasure. The Five D’s

This New Moon in Sagittarius occurs Sunday, December 5 at 12:37 pm EST (5:37pm GMT). New Moons are a time of new beginnings and undertaking new projects; since this New Moon occurs in Sagittarius, these projects will likely center on adventure, discovery, and personal experiences, whether they be physical (by planning future travels, say) or mental (through learning or new personal understanding). This is likely to be a weekend of fun and discovery, no matter your definitions. This New Moon, like the Full Moon in Taurus and New Moon in Scorpio of last month, is not heavily aspected. Uranus is now direct after five months in retrograde, which could add new dimensions of your knowledge

For all of my friends in the Southern California area: This Sunday, December 5, from 2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m., I'll be giving a workshop at the new occult shop in town: The Green Man 5712 Lankershim Blvd North Hollywood, CA 91601 Call 818-985-2010  http://thegreenmanstore.com/ The subject: AMULETS AND TALISMANS Talismans and amulets are powerful magickal tools that can be used as part of any style of magick. In this class you'll discover the key elements that can make your talismans and amulets magickal successes and help you achieve any goal. Many of these topics are omitted from other classes and you're going to find that even if you never make a talisman or amulet, the techniques

In Modern Magick I introduced the idea that modern ceremonial magicians should become more in tune with the elements, seasons, and energies of the planets. (Here's a pre-announcement: Denning & Phillips' classic book, Planetary Magick—originally published over 20 years ago, it went out of print and used copies are now selling for up to $75—will be reprinted early next year. It includes my introduction from the first edition.) Pagans have long known this, honoring in their rites both the equinoxes and solstices. On December 21, 2010, we’ll experience the shortest day (and longest night) of the year, the winter solstice. Also known as Yule, it is a time when Pagans perform rituals