Bobrick's book is a fascinating History of Astrology and the great men of the past who helped develop and refine the practice. More than that it is a beautifully written work, meticulously researched and emimently readable. One of the most interesting books I have read in a quarter of a century!

As its subtitle suggests, this is a book about astrology as it evolved and was practiced throughout human history - from very ancient times to the present. It is a history book and not a textbook on astrology. Although the material is presented somewhat unevenly in places, most of the mini-biographies of historical figures and descriptions of historical events are well-written. The prose is clear, although amply peppered with astrological jargon. For those, like me, who are unfamiliar with this jargon, this can be distracting. However, a glossary is provided at the end of the book to help unfamiliar readers who want to understand these passages and explore the subject more in depth. Because of the author's apparent conviction of the soundness and power of traditional astrology and his presentation of many amazingly successful predictions that supposedly occurred throughout history, some readers may become convinced that there's much more to astrology than science would have them believe. Although this book would be of interest to history buffs, I believe that it would be of particular interest to those who, in addition to history, have a passion for astrology and who are thus familiar with astrological terms and techniques.