This is a very personal rating (as they all are, I suppose), as objectively this is probably a 3* book. This book did much to foster my interest in mythology, astronomy and science, so it was a formative read for me. It has great sentimental value and is one of the few books I have retained from early childhood.

What you've got here is a children's book with a very basic retelling of some of the Greek myths that link to the constellations of the northern skies, some nicely painted illustrations of the heroes and monsters, and some outlines of the relevant constellations, which make finding them in the night sky easy. At least it did when I was a child, before light pollution dimmed the view.

I don't know if this is still in print, but if it is it would be an excellent gift for a 6-9 year old (going on 50!). ( )

I very brief look at the myths and legends behind the names of various constellations. I found this a rather turgid read despite its brevity. ( )