The Literary Tarot

The Literary Tarot is a 78-card deck that merges the archetypal wisdom of tarot with iconic characters and narratives from classic literature. Created by the Brink Literacy Project, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering literacy, this deck serves as both a functional divination tool and a celebration of storytelling. Each of the 78 cards features custom illustrations that reinterpret traditional tarot meanings through the lens of literary masterpieces, from Shakespeare to Austen and beyond.

The deck includes a mini guidebook that helps readers connect the literary references to their corresponding tarot meanings, making it accessible for both seasoned tarot practitioners and literature enthusiasts. The physical production emphasizes quality, with foil-inlaid cards and a "swanky book box" designed to store the deck and guidebook, reinforcing its literary theme. This approach allows the deck to function as a unique entry point into tarot for those drawn by their love of books, while offering a fresh perspective for experienced readers.

Launched successfully on Kickstarter in 2021, raising over $793,000 from more than 11,000 backers, The Literary Tarot demonstrates a strong appeal for its innovative concept. It bridges the gap between a collectible art object and a practical tool for self-reflection, inviting users to explore the universal themes present in both literature and the tarot system.

This deck is ideal for literature enthusiasts, English teachers, and book club members who are curious about tarot but prefer a familiar entry point. It also appeals to experienced tarot readers looking for a unique, themed deck that offers fresh interpretations of classic archetypes. Collectors of beautifully designed decks with a strong conceptual theme will appreciate its aesthetic and literary depth.

The Literary Tarot was created by the Brink Literacy Project, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Their mission is to use the power of storytelling to positively impact lives, focusing on education, community, and publishing. This deck aligns with their goal to foster a love of literature and increase literacy rates by connecting classic stories with the accessible framework of tarot, thereby empowering communities through narrative.