Gary Goldschneider

For all that this is the most comprehensive and useful astrology book that I've come across (case and point, the fact that I continue to reference it going back years to my mother's copy), it's not one which is meant to be read cover to cover. In previous readings I had only referenced the specific pages to look up myself or other people, but this time I actually read all the introductory material and the more generalized discussions around the elemental signs and stages. The authors do a show more great job explaining why they've taken a more individualistic view of astrology readings, which is definitely not the norm in a predictory practice which attempts to group people based on general characteristics. They admit to the usefulness of these general overviews, but I agree with their findings that each day (and therefore each individual) has more speicif readings. I try not to take astrology too seriously, but it seems that every time I read the pages about my birthdate and the sections about my sign in general I discover a little bit more about myself in retroflection. My only complaint with their highly specialized approach is that moon signs are not taken into account. Granted, that wold have made the book infinitely thicker and interpretation even more complex. "We'll leave that for another volume" is what I bet they said, so now I just need to track down some more of their work! show less

Really interesting look at astrology. It sums up more general aspects, then gives insight into your personality based on the day you were born. It lists numerology number, tarot card, health issues, and advice, along with a phrase to meditate on.

The tarot card seems pretty arbitrary to just use the arcana card that matches the day you were born.

I read the description for me and a few friends and family and it seems surprisingly spot on except for the Tarot bit.

Although it is an enormous tome, this is the most shoplifted book at our shop (and at a local restaurant, which liked to have it on hand for customer enjoyment). To my mind it is in no real way a book of astrology (but then I am a persnickety and opinionated astrologer) but a neat sort of parlor game book. Of course, I didn't agree with the assessment of my birthday (Sept 30). But I must say every other family member, whose days seemed pretty accurate, stared at me and couldn't believe I show more couldn't see myself in the description.
Silly book to refuse to admit I am perfect. show less

Recommended by a friend, this is one of the most read books that I own. If you're into astrology (or even have a mild interest in it), this is a must read if not must own book. Comprised of each day of the year, it gives an insightful and detailed personality assessment of persons born on that particular day. Whenever I learn of someone's birthday, I look it up to see what it says about them, and for the most part I've found that the traits outlined in the book are pretty much spot-on with show more the personality of those I know. show less