Suggested reading for an (almost) complete beginner?

[MrsPotatoHead]

I was just wondering if anyone knows of some good books/websites to get started with astronomy? I have the 'wonders of the solar system' book that accompanied the series with Prof Cox. So where to next?

[Jiggy 67]

Well, you're already here. These forums have most of the things you want. Scan the stickies and tutorials and if you have a specific question just ask. If you want knowledge of the skies....."turn left at Orion" and download Stellarium, it's free

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I am here: http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=53.365229,-2.732435

[Carbon Brush]

Everything that Jiggy 67 said.

[Merlin66]

If you want a general overview of astronomy -not just the observing side then you can't do much better than Dinah Moche's "Astronomy -Self teaching guide"

Amazon.com: Astronomy: A Self-Teaching Guide, Fifth Edition (9780471383536): Dinah L. Moche: Books

[Duns]

I found The Backyard Astronomer's Guide to be very useful. It covers every aspect of astronomy from a beginners perspective. A little bit pricey though.

[Black Knight]

Astronomy by Ian Ridpath (Dorling Kindersley). Great little handbook.

[tbird]

As well as Dinal Moche's book, I like Patrick Moore's Teach Yourself Astronomy Patrick Moore's Astronomy: Teach Yourself: Amazon.co.uk: Sir Patrick Moore: Books

[Ian123]

If you want a general overview of astronomy -not just the observing side then you can't do much better than Dinah Moche's "Astronomy -Self teaching guide"

Amazon.com: Astronomy: A Self-Teaching Guide, Fifth Edition (9780471383536): Dinah L. Moche: Books

+1

[Hightower]

I'm currently making my way through the Complete Idiots Guide to Astronomy, 4th Edition.

PM me for more details

[cotterless45]

yo, best book in the Universe;

"Stargazing, astronomy without a telescope" by Patrick Moore.

This'll direct you to each constellation, before you take the plunge and buy " Stargazing , astronomy with binoculars".

if your still fascinated you'll be moving onto ; Astronomy, how to survive in frosty conditions with 7 streetlights shining upon theee!

[Stu Skywatcher]

http://http://stargazerslounge.com/member-equipment-reviews/56871-stargazing-binoculars-beginners-first-review.html

Being new to this myself, I would highly recommend Phillip's Stargazing with Binoculars. See the SGL review via the above link.

[sticks]

I found the best beginners book, and one with lasting relevance and use, is "The Practical Astronomer" by Will Gater and Anton Vamplew. The Haynes book is good as well with lots about gear.