The Ultimate Beginner Telescope Guidebook

I’m astronomer John Read and I’ve been writing bestselling astronomy guidebooks for almost 15 years. The Ultimate Beginner Telescope guidebook is, by far, the best way to get started in your astronomy journey.

Three versions to choose from

This Special Hardcover Edition

$29.95 + Shipping

This special hardcover edition is absolutely beautiful. With custom star maps, and telescope view images on every page, this is the ultimate way to kick off your stargazing journey.

International Editions

Don’t live in the United States? The Ultimate Beginner Telescope Guidebook is also available in Paperback and Hardcover direct from Amazon.

Buy from Amazon

Special Spiral Bound “Field Guide” Edition.

$29.95 + Shipping

Same great content as the other editions, but in a smaller 6×9 format specifically designed to fit in your backpack, or sit on your knee while observing with your telescope.

COMING SOON

“This book is for anyone of any age who is ready to look up at the stars in a way that is informative and engaging!”

Astronaut Dr. Sian Proctor, while premiering our new books at the Boston Museum of Science, June 13th, 2026

10 Things This Book Will Teach You

Learn how to… 

  1. Choose the Right Telescope: Select the best option for your budget and goals.

  2. Setup your Telescope: Assemble and align your telescope quickly without frustration.

  3. Track Sky Movements: Understand how the stars shift through hours and seasons.

  4. Use Stargazing Software: Use apps to instantly locate planets, comets, and satellites.

  5. Find Deep-Sky Objects: Locate distant galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters.

  6. Observe Double Stars: Find and visually split binary star systems.

  7. View Moon and Planets: See sharp details on the lunar surface and bright planets.

  8. Master Smart Telescopes: Set up and operate modern, automated smart telescopes.

  9. Astrophotography Setup: Configure your equipment to capture photos of the night sky.

  10. Earn Observing Certificates: Document your observations to earn certificates from the RASC or the Astronomical League.

Free Astronomy Club!

Have questions about your telescope? We meet live three times per week!