For thousands of years, civilisations around the world have turned to the stars for guidance, marking the passage of time, navigating vast distances, and weaving myths that have been passed down through generations. While the International Astronomical Union (IAU) officially recognises 88 constellations, the sky holds countless more - shaped by the traditions, beliefs, and wisdom of diverse cultures throughout history.
From the Polynesians who voyaged across open oceans using only the stars, to ancient farmers who timed their harvests by celestial rhythms, to storytellers who filled the heavens with legends of gods, animals and heroes, the night sky has long been a canvas of human imagination and discovery.
Created in collaboration with the Royal Observatory Greenwich, Constellations: Around the World in the Night Sky is a captivating exploration of astronomy, folklore and science - revealing how the stars unite us across time and cultures.
Created in collaboration with the Royal Observatory Greenwich and experts from around the world, this book brings together scientific insight and cultural wisdom to uncover the universal language of the cosmos and the timeless stories that connect us all.Mariana Ruiz Johnson's vibrant, bold and graphic illustrations beautifully complement the stories, making each page a visual celebration of cultural heritage.Weaving star stories from diverse cultures across the globe, this book includes rich tales from Mongolia, Japan, China, the Pacific Islands, the Maori, the First Nations of Australia, the Dene of Alaska, the Ojibwe and Mohawk nations of North America and the Sami of Northern Europe. It also draws from Islamic traditions, as well as the ancient civilisations of the Inca, Aztec, Greece, Egypt and Babylon.