Now THIS is a great book.
When I received it, I have to admit that I judged the book by it's cover as I hadn't read the advertisement properly, so was expecting a hardback (that's my error of course). On reading the introductory text once again I felt that maybe I'd made a mistake as the book was obviously an undergraduate textbook. Regardless, I persevered. Then, two weeks later, I'm wondering how on earth I managed to read every page, diagram and article in such a short space of time. This book is compulsive reading.
It is beautifully organised, and the planet-specific sections are truly the most enlightening pages I've ever read about the Solar System. The chapter on Mars is particularly brilliant in its portrayal of the red planet and the secrets it holds. The images are always useful and at times awe-inspiring.
How the Authors manage to convey such complex phenomenon to such a wide audience is incredibly effective. The most complex of astrophysical laws are made accessible to anyone with even a passing interest in Astronomy and Cosmology. The casual astronomer is going to feel right at home here, and so will the degree student. Trust me, it is a work of art.
Without doubt the most extensive, well crafted books I have ever read on the subject.