READERS GUIDE
TAROT READINGS

The Thrift Shop Diary is divided into three parts: Prelude (January-April), Interlude (May-August), and Finale (September-December). In each part Ellie visits Madame Beatrix, a chain-smoking psychic who reads her Tarot. Below are the three Tarot card spreads Ellie receives. If you are interested in gaining a more in-depth meaning for each card, I recommend the The Black Shadow. If you are interested in a free online reading, I like Facade Tarot.

Tarot Reading #1 - Name Spread
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In this spread Madame Beatrix lays out the cards in three lines according to Catey's full name: CATHERINE - AVRIL - HANSON. In the book, only the line of cards from her last name are revealed.
C - Magician
H - Wheel of Fortune
A - Three of Hearts
S - Two of Wands
​E - Queen of Cups

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Tarot Reading # 2 - Five Card Spread

Frustrated at her lack of progress in learning the mystery surrounding her mother, Ellie returns to Madame Beatrix. The reading that follows, though less than satisfying, spurs her on with the Ace of Swords, representing victory, at the end.
Past - Three of Pentacles
Present - Hanged Man
Hidden Force - Wheel of Fortune
Advice - Ten of pentacles
Outcome - Ace of Swords 

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​Tarot Reading #3 - Five Card Spread with Significator (using only Major Arcana and allowing for reverse meanings)

Ellie surprises Madame Beatrix with an unscheduled visit seeking answers. She asks the Tarot directly: "What did my mother wish to tell me in secret?". Ellie selects the Significator that best represents her mother - The Empress - and Madame Beatrix endeavors to answers the question but this reading ends on an ominous note.
​​Past - The Tower
Present - The Moon (reversed)
Hidden Force - The Emperor
Advice - Temperance
Outcome - The Sun (reversed)
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