By: Jonathyn Lopez
As the summer of 2024 draws near, anticipation mounts among literature enthusiasts for the release of ‘Tarot Stories’ by Christopher Polidoro on July 30th. This debut promises to do more than entertain you for the summer. It aims to redefine spiritual storytelling through a captivating blend of short stories, original illustrations, and narratives that provoke thought and inspire wonder. ‘Tarot Stories’ invites readers into a realm where ancient symbols converge with contemporary storytelling. Each short story within the collection intricately weaves around the rich symbolism of tarot cards, offering a diverse array of mythological themes and motifs while remaining unique from one another. From whimsical tales that transport readers to very magical (and alarmingly American) landscapes to profound narratives exploring timeless human dilemmas, Polidoro’s stories promise to immerse readers in worlds both familiar and fantastical. However, the real kicker for summer readers is how the whole collection presents itself and the ways it stands apart from the crowd.
At the heart of ‘Tarot Stories’ lies its ability to offer a variety of entertainment to different crowds. Like a fine deck of cards, every Tarot “Story” comes with its unique feel, font, and artwork that bring each of them to life. From comic books to newspaper reports and even Japanese Ink Paintings, there are so many styles the stories try to represent, and each of them succeeds. Perhaps that is what makes a book like “Tarot Stories” so alluringly alien; not only does a book so rarely attempt its format, but even fewer manage to justify it. The book doesn’t even use page numbers.
This diversity of style displayed is a result of how it was crafted. At the book’s lead were illustrators Natalie Leone and Kiersten Labbree, two young women whose artistic prowess breathes life into each narrative with vivid imagery and symbolic depth. Tyler Furey, an environmental artist, focused all his energy on the finale, creating a miniature underworld within Greek Mythology. Also featured is Ralph Stiles, a former police sketch artist and Vietnam veteran, alongside Dennis Merlino, a leatherworker tasked with creating a real, physical storybook that the team could use in the actual book. Last but not least was Charles Mazzeo, an Art teacher in New York City by day and Artist by night. The variety of talent and prowess is palpable, and the book reaches many areas, both artistically and metaphorically. “The team somehow pulls it off and brings each story and illustration home,” said the author, Chris Polidoro, with a relieved expression.
Whether lounging by the pool or seeking refuge from the summer heat, ‘Tarot Stories’ promises to captivate and engage, making it the perfect companion for leisurely summer days. Christopher Polidoro’s reinterpretation of ancient myths within a modern context is particularly compelling. In the collection’s final narrative, “Modern Mythology,” classical gods like Zeus transcend their traditional roles to embody contemporary themes such as digital dominance and societal evolution. This innovative approach not only revitalizes familiar tales but also prompts readers to contemplate the enduring relevance of mythology in today’s dynamic world. Another tale worth telling comes from the “Jug-Band-Blues Books” or, ‘The Continuing Story of a Jug-Band from Missouri.’ Inspired by classic stories and an early-American setting, one band’s adventure to the end of the world reads like a cross between The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and Moby Dick. It is nice to see how the writing changes with each story and how even the shorter ones claim their screen time through sharp narratives that never keep the reader waiting but are engaged and effortlessly rewarded.
‘Tarot Stories’ sets a high bar and stays there. It would not be an underestimation to say that it is one of the most unique and visually enticing books I have ever read. The phrase “Hidden Gem” gets used an awful lot, but if you were to discover one diamond under the sand this summer, it would be this book. You can pre-order the book at Barnes & Noble: Tarot Stories written by Christopher Polidoro. Keep up with the Tarot Stories community on Instagram or Facebook when the book releases on July 30th.
Published by: Martin De Juan
