The Planets

Dava Sobel, former science editor for the New York Times, in her book, The Planets, gives a well presented description of the nine planets in our solar system. She does an excellent job of weaving the history of discovery with the presently known facts of each planet. She uses mythology, astrology, popular culture, science fiction, art and music as well to paint a many-faceted portrait of our celestial neighborhood.

Her book is detailed enough to give relevant information for most lay people, yet her style is accessible to most lay readers. I enjoyed her writing since it isn’t merely a bland recitation of dry facts but a living story of man’s desire to know and understand the heavens.