The Oracle of the Innocent Heart

Oracle of the Innocent Heart - back to an unguarded view

Children see the world differently. A bird is not just a bird, a bush can become a castle, and the question 'why' is never too simple to ask. This oracle by Scott Alexander King and illustrator Sharon McLeod builds on that way of seeing.

The deck consists of 45 cards, each with images of birds, nature and everyday moments that carried meaning in childhood. The guidebook is written from the perspective of a small girl. No fixed interpretations, but short stories that leave room for your own reading.

What the cards are about

The focus lies on what King calls 'the Land of Possibilities'. That is not a place, but a state of mind in which you do not immediately judge or weigh. The cards show situations recognizable from childhood: playing outside, discovering something new, asking questions without expecting an answer.

Sharon McLeod's illustrations are soft and dreamlike. Lots of green, pastel colours, lots of space. The images are not symbolically loaded like in a traditional tarot deck, but work more as associative triggers.

How you work with it

This oracle lends itself to daily draws. Pull a card, read the story in the guidebook, and ask yourself how your younger self would look at your current situation. That sounds simple, but that is exactly the strength.

The cards are laminated and sturdy. They feel smooth, shuffle easily. The format is 104 x 140 mm, slightly larger than standard playing cards. Everything comes in a solid storage box.

Use this deck during moments when you get stuck in your head. The childlike logic works as a counterweight to overthinking.

About Scott Alexander King

Scott Alexander King specializes in animal symbolism and totemism. He is best known for his work Animal Dreaming, in which he translates the wisdom of nature into daily usable insights. For this deck he worked with illustrator Sharon McLeod, who drew the dreamlike imagery.

King's background as a teacher is noticeable in the way the guidebook is written. The tone is accessible, never vague, and always focused on practical application.

Specifications

• Number of cards: 45
• Card size: 104 x 140 mm
• Material: Laminated cardstock
• Language: English
• Publisher: Animal Dreaming Publishing
• Author: Scott Alexander King
• Illustrator: Sharon McLeod
• Guidebook: Paperback with stories from a child's perspective
• Packaging: Sturdy luxury storage box

Questions we often get

How does this differ from a classic oracle with fixed meanings?
The guidebook does not give fixed interpretations, but short stories written by a child. You interpret yourself what the card means for you at that moment.

Can I combine this deck with tarot cards?
Yes. Many people use it as a supplement to add an emotional or intuitive layer to a tarot reading. It works especially well as a closing card.