I agree that Backyard is a great introduction. I heard that it's now in its
second edition, but I haven't had a chance to see it. What was updated?

Also, for a quick read and a pocket reference, I think a good choice is:
Cambridge Guide to Stargazing with your Telescope
Robin Scagell
ISBM 0-521-78448-4



"DropZone01" wrote in message
...
I found "The Backyard Astronomer's Guide" by Terence Dickinson and Alan
Dyer
to be very good, and "Night Watch" by Terence Dickinson to be a close
second.

The Backyard Astronomer's Guide
ISBN 0-921820-11-9