This is an excellent textbook for first year astronomy students at either the senior in high school or freshman in college level. There are beautiful pictures, stimulating text, and thought-provoking questions to lead the student on toward deeper knowledge and understanding of the topics. At the end of each chapter are review questions, thought questions, and problems to solve, as well as suggestions for further reading. Along with its companion volume, Stars, Galaxies, and Cosmology, this text is a highly stimulating read.