This deck has a very different look to it from most decks, and the symbolism in it is also intensely different.  The artist and author studied Navajo sandpaintings, mythology and symbolism extensively before creating this deck.  It is important to learn and follow the mythology contained herein when using this deck.

The Major Arcana retain their traditional titles for easier reference, but they are subtitled with the names of the Navajo mythological figures to which they refer.  The Minor Arcana have also been renamed, including the suits themselves, which have been changed to Rainbows, Lightning, Buffalo and Water.  Court cards remain the King, Queen, Knight and Page.

The deck is standard-sized and easy to work with.  The enclosed booklet is more informative than most, and even offers a different spread to work with instead of the usual Celtic Cross which remains the mainstream selection.  I think the book which accompanies this deck would in this case be tremendously enlightening.

For those looking to work with a Native American system, this might have more appeal than those which are just Native American in their style and imagery.  This one has real symbolic meaning.

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Review Copyright 1998 by Gina M. Pace