I personally prefer Sky and Telescope to Astronomy magazine, though both are great publications. You can find each at the local Barnes and Noble or Borders bookstores and decide for yourself. My very favorite book for learning the constellations is H.A. Rey's (of Curious George fame) "The Stars: A New Way To See Them", which you should also be able to find at the local bookstores; it's been in print since the 1950's (or perhaps 40's even). I consider learning the constellations an important first step, and this book is better by far than any I've seen to accomplish this. Rich --- J Waterreus <jwaterr@comcast.net> wrote:

I'm thinking about subscribing to an astronomy magazine. I was wondering if anyone could recommend a good one for a beginner. It would be used by the whole family, including our teenagers. I want to start to become more familiar with the basics of astronomy and using telescopes. Also, suggestions for books to read would be great too. When I read your posts, I sometimes don't understand what you're talking about!

Thanks! Dottie

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I have subscribed to both Sky and Telescope and Astronomy in the past; both provide monthly sky maps and highlight special events to look for in the sky. Out of the two, Astronomy seemed geared more towards beginners. One thing you could do before committing to a subscription is to buy a copy of one or both at a store and see what you think. Several local retailers carry at least one of the magazines each month. I think I used to by mine at Albertsons. On Wed, 2004-03-31 at 16:57, J Waterreus wrote:

I'm thinking about subscribing to an astronomy magazine. I was wondering if anyone could recommend a good one for a beginner. It would be used by the whole family, including our teenagers. I want to start to become more familiar with the basics of astronomy and using telescopes. Also, suggestions for books to read would be great too. When I read your posts, I sometimes don't understand what you're talking about!

Thanks! Dottie

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