Hi, This was the very first Tarot deck I ever bought for myself. It was introduced to me by a reader at a shop, and I was drawn to it right away by its beautiful and unusual pictures. Very colorful! Personally, it spoke to my heart from the start. Later on I bought the book for it, and learned much more. Although, at the time of purchase, I was not into Qabala, I am now, and I attribute this to the cards. I am so glad that they had drawn me into such a wonderful world of study. Learning about the relationship between Tarot and The Tree of Life has made my card reading much richer. It goes beyond "fortune-telling", and into the depths of the soul. I have now continued on with my Qabalistic studies through other sources, as well, and use my Gill Tarot cards, and book, right along with those studies. If you can look at this deck, and book, at a store, and feel drawn to them, by all means buy them. You will learn alot from studying both. I'll admit, the book may not be for beginners because of the Qabalistic bent, but it is very spiritual, and still makes for an interesting, spiritual read. But watch out! You may end up getting drug into the fascinating world of the Tree of Life (Qabala). Peace, Catbird