Stargazer : A Step-by-step Guide to the Southern Night Sky - foreword by Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock

Penguin Random House, 2019. ISBN: 9780143795575.
(Age: 9+) Recommended. Themes: Astronomy, constellations, Milky Way. This non-fiction guide book is a step by step guide to how stars are divided into constellations, the motion of stars in the night sky, the factors affecting conditions for stargazing and then a great reference on finding specific southern sky constellations such as the Southern Cross and astronomical objects such as galaxies and nebulae. The reference is divided into 'routes' which guide the viewer through star constellations and astronomical objects along a path, explaining notable features and background information for each, including their mythological roots. To conclude the book takes a look at closer astronomical objects such as the moon and planets and how to find them in the night sky.
This book would be a great companion for a budding star-gazer. It is easy to follow and contains great information on many of the constellations visible in the Southern Sky without overwhelming the reader with detail. Its relevance to Australian skies, great pictures and easy to follow 'routes' are a plus and I would recommend to anyone as an introduction to the night sky.
Michael Pledger