Stuart R. Kaplan

  • 6

    Catalog books

  • 6

    Works

  • 1981 to 2018

    Strongest span

Who This Author Is

Stuart R. Kaplan is the author of El Tarot Book, a comprehensive guide that explores tarot’s imagery, symbolism, and use. His writing combines clear explanations of cards and spreads with rich visual references, aimed at readers who want both practical guidance and deeper appreciation of tarot art and history.

Kaplan’s approach in El Tarot Book balances accessible instruction with careful attention to visual detail, making it useful for beginners and experienced readers alike. The book emphasizes card meanings, interpretive techniques, and the visual language of decks, helping readers develop confident, informed tarot practice.

Best Place To Start

El Tarot Book

U S Games Systems • 2003 • longer commitment

It helps anchor a specific period of this author’s publishing run instead of blending into the undated shelf clutter.

Author At A Glance

Best known for: Comprehensive tarot histories and references • Clear card-by-card explanations • Collector-focused presentation

Genres and themes: Tarot reference • Occult history • Card interpretation

Who this author is best for: For readers who want a detailed, practical guide to tarot decks and meanings presented with clarity and collector awareness.

Start with El Tarot Book to see Kaplan’s card descriptions and visual examples, then explore other volumes for historical depth or deck studies.

Top Books To Start With

  1. El Tarot Book

    U S Games Systems • 2003 • longer commitment

    UPB note: one of the most common used-copy publishers for this author • year signal: 2003 • 351 pages.

  2. Tarot Classic

    U S Games Systems • 2003 • standard commitment

    UPB note: one of the most common used-copy publishers for this author • year signal: 2003 • 240 pages.

  3. 101 Ways to Count Sheep

    U S Games Systems • 1998 • quick commitment

    It stands out because it asks for less time than many of the longer volumes on this page.

  4. Tarot of the Witches Deck

    U S Games Systems • 1992 • quick commitment

    UPB note: one of the most common used-copy publishers for this author • year signal: 1992 • 96 pages.

  5. The Tarot of the Witches Book

    U S Games Systems • 1981 • quick commitment

    UPB note: one of the most common used-copy publishers for this author • year signal: 1981 • 96 pages.

  6. Pamela Colman Smith

    U.S. Games Systems Inc. • 2018 • longer commitment

    UPB note: year signal: 2018 • 440 pages.

How The Picks Compare

  • Tarot Classic is the easier short commitment, while El Tarot Book asks for more reading time up front.

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