The Fool’s Journey

The Fool’s Journey: A Literary Journey through the Tarot

"The symbols of the unconscious present themselves to us in much the same way as a crystal or a flower grows."
- Carl Jung

Welcome to The Fool's Journey—Feldman's Books' transformative course through the Major Arcana of the Tarot, a unique book club experience designed to inspire self-discovery and personal growth. Over the course of a year, we'll explore 12 carefully selected books, each aligned with the profound archetypes and myths represented by the Tarot's Major Arcana. This literary odyssey aims to provoke deep reflection, stimulate meaningful discussions, and foster a sense of community among readers.

Join us on the third Tuesday of each month as we embark on this extraordinary adventure of the mind and spirit, using the power of literature to unlock the wisdom of the Tarot and inspire personal transformation.

Follow all of this book club's events on Eventbrite to be reminded when they tickets go on sale.

August 20, 2024: 0- The Fool: "The Little Prince" by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

This beloved novella follows a young prince's journey across the universe, embodying the Fool's innocence and openness to new experiences. The prince's encounters with various characters represent the Fool's willingness to learn from different perspectives. His relationship with the fox teaches him about the importance of connections, mirroring the Fool's potential for growth. The story's whimsical nature and profound insights reflect the Fool's simultaneous naivety and wisdom. Ultimately, the prince's return to his planet symbolizes the Fool's circular journey of self-discovery.

*Extra Credit: Peace In Every Step by Thich Nhat Hahn and Dear Girls by Ali Wong

September 24, 2024: 1- The Magician: "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho

Coelho's masterpiece follows Santiago, a shepherd boy, on his quest to find his Personal Legend, mirroring the Magician's power of manifestation. The protagonist's journey reflects the Magician's ability to transform the mundane into the extraordinary. Santiago's encounters with various mentors represent the Magician's access to divine wisdom and earthly knowledge. The alchemical processes described in the book parallel the Magician's skill in transmuting base elements into gold. The novel's theme of "the universe conspiring to help you" aligns with the Magician's mastery over the four elements and ability to channel universal energy.

October 22, 2024: 2- The High Priestess: "Divine Horsemen" by Maya Deren

Deren's groundbreaking work on Haitian Vodou explores the hidden mysteries and intuitive knowledge embodied by the High Priestess. The book delves into the realm of the subconscious and spiritual insight, mirroring the High Priestess's connection to the unseen world. Deren's immersion in Vodou rituals reflects the High Priestess's role as a bridge between the material and spiritual realms. The exploration of divine possession aligns with the High Priestess's ability to channel higher wisdom. Deren's dual role as observer and participant echoes the High Priestess's balance between objectivity and deep spiritual involvement.

Alternate: Selected Poems by Gwendolyn Brooks.

November 19, 2024: 3- The Empress: "Jambalaya" by Luisah Teish

Teish's book celebrates the nurturing and creative aspects of the Empress through African-American and Yoruba spirituality. The author's exploration of feminine power and natural cycles aligns with the Empress's connection to fertility and abundance. Teish's personal stories and spiritual practices reflect the Empress's embodiment of sensuality and earthly pleasures. The book's focus on ancestral wisdom mirrors the Empress's role as a maternal figure and keeper of traditions. Jambalaya's emphasis on personal growth and self-love resonates with the Empress's nurturing energy and ability to manifest desires.

Alternates: The Artist's Way or The Right to Write both by Julia Cameron.

January 21, 2025: 4- The Emperor: "Dune" by Frank Herbert

Herbert's science fiction epic explores themes of power, authority, and governance, embodying the Emperor's archetype. The protagonist Paul Atreides' journey from a young duke to a powerful leader reflects the Emperor's mastery over his domain. The complex political intrigues and power struggles in the novel mirror the Emperor's role in maintaining order and structure. The harsh desert planet Arrakis represents the Emperor's ability to rule over challenging environments and impose his will. Dune's exploration of the consequences of absolute power aligns with the Emperor's potential for both benevolent leadership and tyranny.

Alternates: Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott or Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within by Natalie Goldberg

*Extra Credit: Stone Butch Blues by Leslie Feinberg

February 18, 2025: 5- The Hierophant: "Living Buddha, Living Christ" by Thich Nhat Hanh

Hanh's exploration of Buddhist and Christian traditions embodies the Hierophant's role as a spiritual teacher and bridge between different belief systems. The book's examination of mindfulness practices and religious philosophies reflects the Hierophant's connection to established spiritual wisdom. Hanh's role as a mediator between Eastern and Western thought mirrors the Hierophant's function as an interpreter of sacred knowledge. The author's ability to find common ground between seemingly disparate traditions parallels the Hierophant's skill in guiding others to deeper understanding. Hanh's respectful and inclusive approach to both Buddhism and Christianity aligns with the Hierophant's emphasis on universal truths and spiritual unity.

March 18, 2025: 6- The Lovers: "Last Night at the Telegraph Club" by Malinda Lo

Lo's historical fiction novel explores themes of love, identity, and choice, mirroring the Lovers card's representation of relationships and decisions. Set in 1950s San Francisco, the story follows Lily Hu's journey of self-discovery and first love, reflecting the Lovers' emphasis on personal values and attractions. The protagonist's struggle between family expectations and her true self aligns with the Lovers' theme of making difficult choices. The novel's exploration of LGBTQ+ identity in a restrictive era echoes the Lovers' call to embrace one's authentic self. Lo's portrayal of different types of love - romantic, familial, and platonic - resonates with the Lovers card's multifaceted nature.

Alternate: The Essential Neruda: Selected Poems (Bilingual Edition) by Pablo Neruda.

*Extra Credit: Song of Achilles by Rebecca Miller

TBA: 7- The Chariot: "The Complete Persepolis" by Marjane Satrapi

Satrapi's graphic memoir chronicles her coming-of-age during the Iranian Revolution, embodying the Chariot's themes of overcoming obstacles and self-assertion. The author's journey from Iran to Europe and back reflects the Chariot's forward movement and drive. Satrapi's struggle to maintain her identity amidst political and cultural upheaval mirrors the Chariot's mastery over opposing forces. The black-and-white artwork symbolizes the Chariot's ability to navigate between light and shadow, certainty and doubt. Persepolis' exploration of personal growth in the face of adversity aligns with the Chariot's triumph over life's challenges.

TBA: 8- Justice: "I Am Not Your Negro" by James Baldwin (book + movie)

Baldwin's powerful critique of American race relations embodies Justice's themes of truth, fairness, and accountability. The work's unflinching examination of systemic racism reflects Justice's call for balance and equality. Baldwin's eloquent prose and the film's striking visuals serve as a metaphorical scales, weighing the nation's professed ideals against its actions. The book and movie's exploration of historical and contemporary racial issues aligns with Justice's emphasis on cause and effect. Baldwin's role as a witness and prophet mirrors Justice's function as an impartial observer and truth-teller.

*Extra Credit: Read ANY of James Baldwin’s essay collections

TBA: 9- The Hermit: "Letters to a Young Poet" by Rainer Maria Rilke

Rilke's collection of letters embodies the Hermit's journey of introspection and self-discovery. The poet's advice to embrace solitude and inner exploration reflects the Hermit's withdrawal from the external world to find inner wisdom. Rilke's emphasis on patience and allowing things to unfold naturally aligns with the Hermit's slow, deliberate approach to enlightenment. The letters' focus on developing one's unique voice mirrors the Hermit's quest for personal truth and authenticity. Rilke's role as a mentor to the young poet echoes the Hermit's function as a guide, sharing hard-earned wisdom with those who seek it.

TBA: 10- The Wheel of Fortune: "American Gods" by Neil Gaiman

Gaiman's novel explores themes of fate, change, and the cyclical nature of power, mirroring the Wheel of Fortune's representation of life's ups and downs. The protagonist Shadow's journey across America reflects the Wheel's constant motion and unpredictability. The clash between old and new gods embodies the Wheel's cycles of rise and fall, creation and destruction. Gaiman's blend of mythology and Americana aligns with the Wheel's connection to cosmic forces shaping human destinies. The novel's exploration of belief and sacrifice resonates with the Wheel's themes of karma and the interconnectedness of all things.

Alternate: The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

May 27, 2025: 11- Strength: "Zami" by Audre Lorde

Lorde's "biomythography" embodies Strength's themes of courage, compassion, and inner power. The author's exploration of her identity as a Black lesbian feminist reflects Strength's emphasis on embracing one's true nature. Lorde's poetic prose and unflinching honesty mirror Strength's gentle yet firm approach to overcoming obstacles. The book's focus on relationships and personal growth aligns with Strength's representation of emotional and spiritual fortitude. Zami's celebration of women's bonds and resilience resonates with Strength's depiction of feminine power taming the wild beast of adversity.

Nov 3, 2025: The Hanged Man: Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse

Hesse's novel follows Siddhartha's spiritual journey, mirroring the Hanged Man's themes of surrender and gaining new perspectives. The protagonist's decision to leave his privileged life reflects the Hanged Man's voluntary sacrifice for higher wisdom. Siddhartha's various experiences and teachers represent the Hanged Man's suspension between the material and spiritual worlds. The novel's exploration of enlightenment through paradox aligns with the Hanged Man's inverted position, seeing the world from a different angle. Hesse's emphasis on finding one's own path to truth resonates with the Hanged Man's individualistic approach to spiritual growth.

Dec 1, 2025: Death: The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

Gaiman's novel, while written for younger readers, explores Death's themes of transformation and renewal through the story of Nobody Owens. The protagonist's upbringing in a graveyard by ghosts reflects Death's role as a gateway between worlds. The book's coming-of-age narrative mirrors Death's representation of necessary endings and new beginnings. Gaiman's blend of humor and darkness aligns with Death's dual nature as both fearsome and liberating. The novel's exploration of mortality and legacy resonates with Death's reminder to live fully in the face of impermanence.

14- Jan 26, 2026: Temperance: Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Kimmerer's book embodies Temperance's themes of balance, harmony, and integration. The author's blend of scientific knowledge and indigenous wisdom reflects Temperance's ability to reconcile seemingly opposite elements. Kimmerer's exploration of reciprocity between humans and nature aligns with Temperance's emphasis on flow and exchange. The book's focus on gratitude and sustainable living mirrors Temperance's call for moderation and mindful consumption. Braiding Sweetgrass' celebration of interconnectedness resonates with Temperance's role in creating synthesis and healing divisions.

15- Feb 23, 2026: The Devil: Ceremony by Leslie Marmon Silko

Silko's novel explores the Devil's themes of bondage, addiction, and the shadow self through the story of Tayo, a Native American World War II veteran. The protagonist's struggle with trauma and alienation reflects the Devil's representation of self-imposed limitations. The book's examination of cultural loss and recovery aligns with the Devil's challenge to confront uncomfortable truths. Silko's integration of Pueblo storytelling traditions mirrors the Devil's connection to primal, instinctual energies. Ceremony's journey towards healing and wholeness resonates with the Devil's potential for transformation when faced and understood.

16- TBD: The Tower: The Complete Maus by Art Spiegelman

Spiegelman's graphic novel embodies the Tower's themes of sudden change, revelation, and the collapse of old structures. The author's portrayal of his father's Holocaust experiences reflects the Tower's representation of catastrophic events that shatter worldviews. Maus' innovative use of animal metaphors aligns with the Tower's dismantling of conventional perspectives. The book's exploration of intergenerational trauma mirrors the Tower's far-reaching consequences of momentous changes. Spiegelman's personal journey of understanding his family history resonates with the Tower's potential for rebuilding and new insights after destruction.

17- TBD: The Star: The Flash of Spirit by Robert Farris Thompson

Thompson's exploration of African and African American art embodies the Star's themes of inspiration, hope, and spiritual renewal. The book's examination of artistic traditions reflects the Star's connection to divine creativity and cosmic influences. Thompson's emphasis on the continuity of African aesthetics in the Americas aligns with the Star's representation of guidance and purpose. The author's interdisciplinary approach mirrors the Star's expansive, universal perspective. Flash of Spirit's celebration of cultural resilience resonates with the Star's promise of healing and rejuvenation after dark times.

18- TBD: The Moon: A Mercy by Toni Morrison

Morrison's novel explores the Moon's themes of intuition, hidden depths, and the power of the subconscious. Set in 17th-century America, the book's multiple narratives reflect the Moon's shifting, illusory nature. Morrison's lyrical prose and non-linear storytelling align with the Moon's representation of dreams and the imagination. The novel's exploration of slavery's psychological impact mirrors the Moon's illumination of shadowy aspects of the psyche. A Mercy's focus on women's experiences and relationships resonates with the Moon's connection to feminine mysteries and cycles.

19- The Sun: The Woman Warrior by Maxine Hong Kingston

Kingston's memoir embodies the Sun's themes of clarity, vitality, and self-realization. The author's blend of Chinese mythology and personal experience reflects the Sun's illumination of truth and identity. Kingston's exploration of voice and silence aligns with the Sun's emphasis on self-expression and authenticity. The book's examination of cultural conflicts mirrors the Sun's ability to cast light on hidden aspects of oneself and society. The Woman Warrior's celebration of storytelling and female strength resonates with the Sun's life-affirming, empowering energy.

20- Judgement: Ariel by Sylvia Plath

Plath's poetry collection embodies Judgement's themes of reckoning, rebirth, and transformation. The raw emotion and confessional style of the poems reflect Judgement's call for honest self-evaluation. Plath's exploration of personal and collective trauma aligns with Judgement's awakening to deeper truths. The collection's themes of death and renewal mirror Judgement's representation of spiritual resurrection. Ariel's powerful imagery and linguistic innovation resonate with Judgement's potential for breakthrough and transcendence.

21- The World: Always Coming Home by Ursula K. Le Guin

Le Guin's experimental novel embodies the World's themes of completion, integration, and cosmic consciousness. The book's creation of a future society based on balance and harmony reflects the World's representation of wholeness and fulfillment. Le Guin's blend of narrative, poetry, and anthropological observation aligns with the World's synthesis of all elements. The novel's non-linear structure mirrors the World's cyclical nature and interconnectedness of all things. Always Coming Home's exploration of possible futures resonates with the World's promise of new beginnings emerging from endings.

*Extra Credit: The Healing Wisdom of Africa by Malidoma Patrice Somé