I too love this deck! I have the Swiss version with the gold. It has read very accurately for me so far and I really think that is because the beautiful paintings are so detailed and varied. There is so much to look at, focus in on during a particular reading, so many possibilities. I notice something "new" every time I look through the deck! The detail is incredible, pictures within pictures within pictures.
I believe Scapini wrote that when he did this deck he didn't know very much about Tarot at all. It shows lol, in my opinion I don't see much RWS imagery or inspiration which is why it can be a difficult deck to read and not one I would recommend to someone just learning Tarot. But this is what makes the deck so different and inspired. The book is funky, I received it as a gift from an AT member
so I'll always have it but I think you really have to interpret these cards yourself. You're right, you can't read it RW style right off the bat! I couldn't! It is a beautiful hot mess at times, lol. It's a lot of fun though.
I love that it is colorful, and like you said there are people from all walks of life and people literally all colors of the rainbow. In many ways they look like real people to me, Scapini wasn't afraid to "ugly" some of them up! It is just a really beautiful deck. I've traded and sold a few of my decks but I've never had the heart to part with this one!