Exploring the World of Astronomy by John Hudson Tiner

Exploring the World of Astronomy: From the Center of the Sun to the Edge of the Universe by John Hudson Tiner, is an astronomy textbook for students and astronomy enthusiasts alike.  This guidebook is well adapted as an astronomy review  text for middle and high school aged students.  The quality presentation of this book rivals that of many popular science themed books for children and adults.  From the cover to the graphics, professional astronomy photos and professional scholarship- this book is sure to capture the attention of any  reader interested in astronomy and science. The information represents the latest scientific research.  Even social and historical background information is covered for a well rounded experience, integrating concepts from additional academic disciplines. The photos and illustrations in of themselves are thorough and represent the latest of scientific discovery- yet the limitations of the black and white printing make the book appear "dated".  The matte finish of the pages and black and white interior resembles more of a work book styled text rather than a primary textbook contrasts with the glossy full color cover. Glossy full color interior would be more suitable for a book on astronomy. This of course is not a problem, but something to keep in mind before purchasing this book.  It is a hybrid of a manual, technical guide and an educational text.  It is useful for learning as well as expanding on one's hobby of astronomy and stargazing.  This is a multi-function - multi purpose thorough book. This book isn't only educational for kids, but adult readers- parents, educators and enthusiasts will also enjoy this book.  And, most of all, the author ties this information with a biblical based view of creation.

 Tiner's book provides a well rounded background for the science student or hobbyist; technical enough to capture the interest of an astronomy enthusiast, yet simple and broad to serve as an introduction to the study of astronomy.  Presenting science in such an appealing format makes learning more obtainable for students and the public in general.  Once again, Master Books has published a text that meets the high standards of scholarship. The only change I would like to see is to have the interior in glossy, full color rather than black and white.  I feel the black and white photos take away some of the splendor and majesty of the universe that is best depicted in full color.  Many of the planets and astronomical bodies are best viewed in full color.  For this reason, this book  would serve as a better review tool to supplement a more indepth curriculum. I imagine this book was printed in black and white in order to keep production costs lower.  I would like to see a premium full color option available.  As a blogger for New Leaf publishers I received this book, published by Master Books for the purpose of writing this review.

Available at NLP

New Leaf Press