cover image Money Magic: Practical Exercises and Empowering Rituals to Heal Your Finances

Money Magic: Practical Exercises and Empowering Rituals to Heal Your Finances

Jessie Susannah Karnatz. Chronicle, $19.95 (288p) ISBN 978-1-79721-035-3

“The Money Witch” Karnatz blends astrology and financial advice in her earnest debut. Finances can be overwhelming and can bring up fear, insecurity, and anxiety, Karnatz writes, but readers “deserve to feel confident” in dealing with money. And, indeed, this is not a traditional guide to maxing out a 401(k) or building an emergency fund: Karnatz focuses on the emotional components of financial education. She breaks down how financial circumstances are tied up with people’s identity, mental health, and family history; and guides readers through a system intended to “heal” their finances, including building financial self-esteem (make a to-do list and commit to a path of action), cultivating a healthy relationship with money (“identify your true financial desires”), and overcoming shame and doubt (accept oneself as deeply human). Resources include journal prompts and affirmations, astrology and crystal tips, and mindfulness exercises. Readers interested in personal financial basics will need to look elsewhere, but those looking to understand the emotional basis of their financial behavior will feel right at home. (Dec.)