From School Library Journal
Grade 6-9-Beginning with an introduction to stargazing and how to read star maps, the author relates how figures and creatures came to be represented in the patterns called constellations. The 88 alphabetical entries are often a page in length and are accompanied by large, sometimes full-page illustrations. The descriptions include information about the myths behind the patterns and note where and when it is best to view them. Some of the entries include bits of information on the scientist(s) who "invented" the constellation, how the pattern has changed over time, and occasional trivia. The images of the constellations, outlined in light blue with white star points against dark blue backgrounds, add essential information and visual interest to the text. The text font is large and easy to read. This volume will serve the needs of those interested in astronomy.Linda Wadleigh, Oconee County Middle School, Watkinsville, GACopyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist
Gr. 6-12. "Most constellations don't look like anything much. They're just groups of stars that have been given names," writes Sasaki in this clearly illustrated guide that demystifies stargazing. A brief introduction advises young people on the best places to view and what to use (the naked eye, rather than telescopes, is better at first). Short, lively entries explain the story behind each of 88 constellations and include tips for locating them in the sky, and excellent illustrations, one for each constellation, outline the pattern of stars with a drawing of the imagined animal or deity that gives the constellation its name. Ten star charts and a glossary conclude this useful, accessible resource that is written in relaxed, teen-friendly language: "Think you and your parents don't get along? Listen to what Andromeda had to put up with." Gillian Engberg
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Book Description
It's not always easy to find the 88 constellations, but this illustrated guidebook will lead you through the stars and make gazing at them a more meaningful experience. Two larger maps portray the entire northern and southern sky, and all the constellations in it. Because the stars put on different "seasonal shows," another set charts the changes that take place in the heavens during the year. Still more pictures present a close-up view of every single constellation, filled with detail. (You'll see an image of the real or imaginary creature it's named after, too.) And, there's so much great information accompanying the super visuals: facts on how far away the stars really are, other interstellar phenomena, the history of every constellation and how they got their names, and the best way to do your star searching. A Selection of Children's Book-of-the-Month Club.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

It's not always easy to find the 88 constellations, but this illustrated guidebook will lead you through the stars and make gazing at them a more meaningful experience. Two larger maps portray the entire northern and southern sky, and all the constellations in it. Because the stars put on different "seasonal shows," another set charts the changes that take place in the heavens during the year. Still more pictures present a close-up view of every single constellation, filled with detail. (You'll see an image of the real or imaginary creature it's named after, too.) And, there's so much great information accompanying the super visuals: facts on how far away the stars really are, other interstellar phenomena, the history of every constellation and how they got their names, and the best way to do your star searching.

FROM THE CRITICS

VOYA - Caitlin Augusta

This title would be a valuable resource for astronomy collections were it not for significant flaws in its writing and information. Covering all eighty-eight constellations, Sasaki's book begins with a brief introduction on astronomy and stargazing and then focuses on each constellation with an outline drawing of each star group on facing pages, ending with star maps. The book is well organized: Constellations can be found in alphabetical order and the layout is suited for browsing or reading through. The content, however, is inconsistent and confusing. Sasaki's choice of constellation myths and stories is haphazard. In some cases, the myth's origin is omitted. Further, Sasaki abruptly switches from culture to culture in confusing maneuvers, and he often neglects to mention in which hemisphere constellations rest. To be fair, the tidbits on astronomical phenomena give the text depth and interest; however, the book would be more useful were the stars in the constellations labeled. The overuse of qualifying adjectives such as "fairly small," "very bright," or "medium sized," gives readers no real sense of the size of astronomical objects. More than once the author goes so far as to write that "there's not much to see" in a particular constellation, which denigrates a fascinating subject. In a few instances, the author is factually incorrect. It is misleading to say that a star is a black hole or that Castor and Pollux are "the patron saints" of the sea. For libraries desperately seeking constellation books, this offering is an acceptable but hardly stellar choice. Glossary. Index. Illus. Photos. Maps. VOYA Codes: 2Q 3P M (Better editing or work by the author might have warranted a 3Q; Willappeal with pushing; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8). 2002, Sterling, 128p,

School Library Journal