I have been a 'reader' of tarot for many years now and have got by on some very good traditional decks. This was the first one I have ever used that just blew me away with the ease it can be used by novices and experienced alike. It is not a traditional tarot deck, and some may find it difficult equating the suits to the traditional decks. However, if you are willing to break away from that traditional mold, and to actually use the imagery and key words in their own right, it is possible to find very indepth and accurate interpretations. Each image really does inspire the mind to create a story or meaning that seems to fit perfectly. This is definitely something that is away from the norm of standard tarot but I find it to be refreshing and insightful to the extent I have a second deck on order to act as a permanent travel companion! The book is also very good and offers some interesting spreads as well as how the Zen 'system' sees the emotional and mental aspects of each of the images. Those who follow Buddhism may find they click with this fairly easily, whereas others may find the descriptions useful when looking at the cards for the first time.