Patterns in the Sky : An Introduction to Ethnoastronomy

Since the beginning of humankind, people around the world have had a strong interest in the powers and beings perceived in the sky. This compelling short work helps students fully understand and appreciate the ways in which non-Western indigenous and small-scale societies perceive, conceptualize, and make sure of what they astronomically observe. With its concise explanations of prominent astronomical phenomena, discussions of relevant crosscultural examples, and instructive suggestions for active field research, Patterns in the Sky is a unique and practical guide for doing ethnoastronomy. In addition, Fabian offers exercises in observational astronomy with the naked eye so that students can get in touch with the cosmos and natural world around them. Title of related interest also available from Waveland Press: McCleary, The Stars We Know: Crow Indian Astronomy and Lifeways, Second Edition (ISBN 9781577667261).

"As a good start and a basic primer, Fabian goes a long way toward encouraging student interest and broad research in this human fascination with reaching toward the stars and beyond."
The Journal of The Royal Anthropological Institute (Vol. 9, No. 3, September 2003)