Book Reviews

The Secret Life of Space

Authors Couper and Henbest are great storytellers with an eye for a colourful character, says reviewer Andy Sawers. Novice stargazers looking for an introduction to the great milestones and personalities of astronomy will want to read it, while knowledgeable astronomers will enjoy the enthusiastic storytelling, he adds.

Book Reviews

Moon: Nature and Culture

Edgar Williams’ book examines the psychological, philosophical and spiritual significance of our nearest neighbour in space. Reviewer Ian Welland states that the author had done extensive research, but the book should be considered a cultural and historical account of our interpretation of the Moon, rather than a full scientific account.

Book Reviews

Living Among Giants

Space artist and author Michael Carroll takes you on a voyage of discovery through the outer Solar System, exploring not only the science of these worlds, but lets your imagination soar to picture what it would be like to stand on Ganymede or Titan. “Carroll’s artwork is stunning… this brilliant book will have you hooked from the beginning,” says reviewer Keith Cooper.

Book Reviews

Stories in the Stars

A retelling of the main constellation stories from the Graeco-Roman tradition with a light-hearted approach that also introduces some stories of the stars from other cultures. A nicely produced book with excellent drawings that can be recommended if you want a modern retelling of the constellation stories, writes reviewer Owen Brazell.

Book Reviews

The Astronomy Bible

Small, chunky and handy enough to be stuffed in a rucksack for quick facts and tips on the go, six of the book’s eight chapters cover the Solar System, the remainder being devoted to all that lies beyond. An easy-reading book that won’t swamp the reader with complicated terminology and a waffling narrative, writes reviewer Kerry Hebden.

Book Reviews

Introducing the Planets and their Moons

An excellent summary of the planets with the right amount of facts, writes reviewer Ian Welland. It uses a geological approach and each chapter deals with specific topics rather than being devoted to one planet in turn. “A super value book that will appeal to more than the beginner or younger reader,” he says.

Book Reviews

Introducing Astronomy

The production quality of this delightful little book by Iain Nicolson is remarkably lavish given the cover price, writes reviewer Steve Ringwood. While aimed at relative newbies to astronomy, its claim to be an introductory guide does not diminish its scope.