Customer Reviews

Secrets From a Stargazer's Notebook: Making Astrology Work for You

5 star:		(66)
4 star:		(5)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This is the new and updated "Secrets" that Debbi's fans have been waiting so patiently for. I bought the first "Secrets" in 1993 and learned from Debbi how to read an astrology chart, particularly my own. I'd been interested in astrology for years but had never before found a book that explained the basics so clearly. This book is actually not just useful in helping novices, it's terrific for more experienced stargazers. You won't find any book as informative and entertaining. I used the easy to follow charts to find out the planets in signs for all my friends, potential lovers, bosses and enemies. Debbi really teaches you how to find out what makes people tick. The information you will learn and read in this book will impress any skeptic. It's such a fun read that you don't even realize how much you are learning. The best thing about reading this book was that I was able to contact Debbi and she has been my personal astrologer since 1994. She has helped me tremendously and it has been a pleasure to have her as my astrologer and friend.

Wise and funny and true and life-changing. A professional astrologer since 1977, charging $100 for an individual/$200 hourly for corporate... I've used this book and this book ONLY as the text for my beginner's classes since 1983... The only book you need at the entry level, then The Astrologer's Handbook, if you want to get to the beginning professional level... order the Liz Greene computer generated horoscope report from Astrolabe... this is how to wade into astrology to see if you want to go further... and altogether $5000 worth of psychological insight into yourself for $20 + $25 + $45. A bargain that will help you make the most of your best qualities and the best of your worst traits... and enjoy the trip! Once you have studied some, have fun going to astrodatabank.com - which offers a lot of celebrity and famous people's charts - especially people in the news now... and you can look up the chart of anyone you admire - Julia Roberts or Condoleeza Rice or Justin Timberlake or Michael Crichton... for free or a nominal $5 fee...

Debbie Kempton Smith's Secret's from a Stargazer's Notebook is an exorcise in clarity cutting through the fuzzy and obscure descriptions found in many astrology reference books. With humor, grace and wit she takes the reader on a journey from the basics of astrology to a deeper understanding of the art. One of the many delights in the book is the way she revels an aspect of astrology through an example (a story) of how it manifested in someone's life. Astrology may have a focus on the stars but Debbie Kempton Smith brings it all down to earth. If you've ever been frustrated with the vagaries of astrology than this is the book to get. If you can get hold of a copy. I've owned two copies that now exist in other people's libraries. The next copy I get stays in my own hands. No mercy to would be borrowers! My advice is to get two copies and keep one of them a secret. I give it 6 stars.

This is one of the top 10 books on Astrology. I have been a professional astrologer since the late 60's and when this book was published I grabbed it up. It is mandatory reading for my beginner and intermediate class'. One of the things that places it in the top 10: It's an easy read presented in a very humorous was and keep my students really interested. Way to go Debbi (so when are you putting out another?).

I bought this book over 20 years ago to learn about astrology. Kempton-Smith's chummy, humanistic approach to interpreting the aspects, planets, etc. shys of pretentious science speak, enabling her to relay her comprehensive understanding of the cosmos in a way that'll get through to just about anyone. Her generous injection of wit taught me and many I know more about astrology than any other book. Can't recommend it enough for either the novice or seasoned astrologer!

This book provides the reader with the nuts and bolts of Astrology and then takes off from there. Debbie Kempton-Smith reminds me of Linda Goodman but with more depth and ALOT more wit.

Here is a serious piece of work that doesn't take itself seriously; the reader is learning a great deal about astrology and never notices that they are, beacuse the book is such a fun read!!! I couldn't put it down for the first go around - and it also remains my book of choice for a reference...

Your post, in reply to an earlier post on Mar. 23, 2010 3:52 PM PDT
Candid One says:

This is in response to Plutonian Fire's presumptuous remarks about this wonderful book.

Talk about reaching!!!

I was in a small bookstore in San Anselmo, California in 1993 and was going out of my mind over the conditions in my life. I was startled when a book fell off a nearby shelf when I brushed up against it and it happened to be Debbi's book. I was about to put it back on the shelf but decided instead to read it.

It wasn't too long after reading it that I contacted Debbi and for the next several years, Debbi tried to help me to put my life in order with the help of astrology.

She is not only completely ethical, she struggled with me as I tried to do find my way through the mystery of my life. My journey took many twists and turns and always, Debbi was there giving much purposeful and good advice. I cannot describe how grateful I am for her assistance. I fought her on many steps of the journey but what no one can do for you is get you to see and then to accept yourself before you can ever move forward.

She would never spend any amount of time trying to write up a bunch of phony emails to make herself look good. She helps many without charge and she puts the infirm and downtrodden high on her priority list of things to do. NEVER would she be writing her own press as you've accused her and I suspect you of possibly being a jealous competitor. Or worse, a judgmental and highly afflicted Scorpio.

Having to replace my original copy of her book due to excessive use and what the elements tend to do to paperbacks, I found it ridiculous that you would hone in on common statements from various fan postings. Tattered would be one the first words I would have used to describe my first copy. I have taped it and covered it with a hard cover to keep it intact. My other copies are not as worn because I have been more careful with them but they aren't in great shape by any means.

Next time you want to take pot shots at her, I suggest you ask some questions before posting such an unworthy bunch of hogwash.

My name is Candace Poole and I am a proud fan of Debbi Kempton-Smith. I am more than happy to sing her praises as one astrologer whose knowledge is wide and deep. Her great sense of humor helps those of us during times of confusion and sadness.

Shame on you.

Astrology books are usually dry and dull. Most will overwhelm a new reader with their calculations, chart erections, and planet analysis. However "Secrets from a Stargazer's Notebook" shows us an entertaining and humorous side to a typically sobering subject matter. Moreover, you don't have to know much about astrology to enjoy it. What you will need is a wicked sense of humor and the ability to laugh at yourself. What's more, it might even inspire you to learn more about astrology. Debbi makes it fun and a littler easier to comprehend.

This is one of the most complete and entertaining astrology books. It's filled with useful information whether you're learning about your own astrological chart or analysing someone else's.

As a psychic who uses astrology, I've read dozens -- perhaps hundreds -- of astrology books.

This is the only one I recommend for every level, beginner through advanced, and this book is always on my desk or next to it, for frequent reference.

The writing style is witty and light. Chapter titles include, "Fire Signs, Air Signs, Jell-o and Dirt Signs," and "Venus - Sleazy Sex and Eternal Love."

However, the information in this book is accurate and easy to understand, no matter what your background.

In addition, the author has put together one of the most valuable chapters, ever, "How to Read a Chart in Less than Five Minutes." That's an innovative approach... and it works!

With over 500 fascinating pages of facts, charts, and insights, this is one astrology book you'll read from cover to cover, and refer to often.

I purchased my first copy of Secrets in an LAX airport bookstore in 1988. It was such a mind opening experience that I dove headfirst into becoming an astrology enthusiast. Since that initial dog-eared paperback, I have given dozens of copies to friends and associates who expressed an interest in the subject. Without exception, they all raved on and on about Debbi Kempton-Smith's charming wit and self deprecating humor. The writing style removed all preconceptions they had concerning astrology and its role in a modern life. It is a truly disarming read. I've just ordered another 5 copies and can't wait to begin sharing the experience all over again! A fabulous book!