In Seeing in the Dark, a poetic love letter to science and to the skies, Timothy Ferris invites us all to become stargazers. He recounts hi...
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Apr 09, 2009
Asymmetrical
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A readable book about astronomy, highlighting the contribution of amateur astronomers. Ferris alternates longer chapters on a wide range of astronomy topics with shorter first-hand experiences and interviews.
I started this about two years ago and still read a chapter now and then, so I would have to say it's not the most enthralling book on the subject. Still, I expect to finish it. . . someday.
I started this about two years ago and still read a chapter now and then, so I would have to say it's not the most enthralling book on the subject. Still, I expect to finish it. . . someday.
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Dec 02, 2010
Beatrice
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Actually I'm rereading, because I loved this book the first time around. It's a transporting journey through the wonders of the universe, from our solar system to the Big Bang, with side trips to describe other remarkable amateur astronomers. One of them is James Turrell, who is spending a good chunk of his life transforming the Roden Crater into a Stone Age observatory. Look it up on line and marvel!
Dec 17, 2009
Sarah
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Seeing in the Dark is a short but dense series of essays on different aspects of amateur astronomy. Each chapter is a different topic or a different experience from Timothy Ferris's life.
Ferris begins his fascinating book by describing how he got hooked on astronomy as a child. He includes a loving review of an older science book: A Child's Geography of the World by V. M. Hillyer. I was so excited by his review of his childhood favorite, that I bought a copy for myself!
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Ferris begins his fascinating book by describing how he got hooked on astronomy as a child. He includes a loving review of an older science book: A Child's Geography of the World by V. M. Hillyer. I was so excited by his review of his childhood favorite, that I bought a copy for myself!
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Nov 25, 2011
Kenyon
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This is an outstanding book about astronomy, the universe, science, and the glories of amateurism. Timothy Ferris's book is part-memoir, part-scientific article, part how-to manual. If you are interested in astronomy I can't imagine a better place to start than here.
Mar 08, 2011
Carolyn
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The book jacket says that Timothy Ferris has been called "the best popular science writer in the English language today" and I have to say I just may agree. I might have to read more by him.
Apr 20, 2009
Erika
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Tim Ferris has a great way of helping us understand the night sky. I got to meet him and see out of his telescope in the barn with the fancy moving roof. It was an amazing experience!
Mar 15, 2011
Richard
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One of the best living science writers at the top of his game. Or only near the top? I will have to re-read the gorgeous, lyrical "Coming of Age in the Milky Way" to be sure.
Apr 09, 2010
Keith
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Timothy Ferris's style is very readable. He paints a great picture of the cosmos and the work amatures have done to advance the science of astronomy. Though the authors descrtions are wonderful the book would benefite from illustrations, or links to photos.
I enjoyed the book and would recommend it to anyone seeking a better understanding of astronomy and it's history.
I enjoyed the book and would recommend it to anyone seeking a better understanding of astronomy and it's history.
Apr 06, 2009
Emily Anne
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This is the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Reads book choice for the year. I tried really hard, but just couldn't get into it. The chapters where he describes the lives various amateur astronomers tended to be more engaging. I finally gave up and just read those chapters.
Apr 03, 2009
Steve
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Even if you are not actively into amateur astronomy, this book is quite entertaining. It consists of many, mostly interesting stories and characters. Recommended, especially if you like telescopes and astronomy.
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Dec 16, 2009
Tina
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This is one of my favorite books in the world. It is about amateur astronomers. Just a series of really lovely little vignettes. The chapter on the moon is the best, especially when he explains "the moon illusion".
Mar 31, 2007
nathaniel
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My favorite science book--and I don't even really care that much about astronomy.
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