Totality : The Great North American Eclipse of 2024

by Littmann

Praise for the previous edition
'A relaxed, well-written and information-packed expedition discovering the history of eclipses' - The Sky at Night

A complete guide to the most stunning of celestial sights, a total eclipse of the Sun

The Great North American Eclipse of 2024 is the most comprehensive source of information, photographs, and illustrations to help readers understand and safely enjoy all aspects of solar eclipses. It includes information on how best to photograph and video record an eclipse, as well as abundant maps, diagrams, and charts, as well as covering the science, history, mythology, and folklore of eclipses.

This new edition focuses especially on the eclipse of April 8, 2024 that passes across Mexico, the United States, and Canada, including detailed maps, precise locations, and weather prospects.

Genres: Science, Nonfiction, History

392 pages, Paperback

Published October 30, 2023

Reviews

[Lauren Stoolfire · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't really have a lot to say about Totality: The Great North American Eclipse of 2024 by Mark Littmann and Fred Espenak except that it was a fascinating read! I was lucky enough to be able to see totality during this eclipse last year and it was one of the most amazing things I've ever seen. In was especially interested in the history elements and, of course, the eclipse photography.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book provided me with everything I was looking for and more. It explains the science but also the folklore, how civilizations past reacted to eclipses, how science and understanding evolved, the behavior of humans and animals/insects during eclipses, and plenty of quotes and stories. It also gives you all the info you need for all the eclipses coming up in the next 50 years around the world. Eye safety, how to photograph eclipses, and all the amazing features observable with the naked eye during totality that the average person doesn’t know about. Lots of great photos, diagrams and historical photos/art in here too. Anyone interested in eclipses or planning to watch one in the future should own this book.

[Moriah · Rating 4 out of 5]

(More 4.5 stars)

Such an excellent reference book! Anything and everything you want to know about eclipses. The first half of the book goes over the science of how eclipses happen, the history of how people have reacted to it throughout the ages, the difference between solar and lunar eclipses and all kinds of information.

The second part of the book goes over the upcoming eclipse in April and maps, guides, references to experiencing the eclipse in the best way possible. There are pictures throughout the book and it is chalk full of great information. I will be referencing this book while we plan our trip for the 2024 viewing!

[Kim Gray · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this book to prepare for the upcoming eclipse in April 2024 which is a 30 minute drive from my house. The 1st part of the book centers on the history of eclipses throughout observable time. It also touches on some scientific discoveries, including proof of Einstein's theory of relativity during the 1919 eclipse. The later half talks about how to observe an eclipse, what to bring, how to photograph, etc. There are appendices in the back that show maps and details of the next eclipses that will take place around the world. I found this book to be informative and interesting to read. Highly recommend especially if you have an interest in astronomy.

[Robin Owens · Rating 4 out of 5]

Focusing on the April 8, 2024 eclipse, a comprehensive source of information, photographs, and illustrations to help readers understand and safely enjoy all aspects of solar eclipses. It includes information on how best to photograph and video record an eclipse, as well as abundant maps, diagrams, and charts. It also covers the science, history, and mythology of eclipses as well as includes personal stories and experiences.

[Jas Madhavan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic read

One expects a work on astronomy to impart a good amount of knowledge on the field. This extremely well written book delivers that and more. Written in a very engaging and witty style it keeps the reader engrossed and wishing the book never ends. Recommended for anyone who wants to further their knowledge of solar eclipses and enjoy the read at the same time.

[Michelle Ferguson · Rating 5 out of 5]

So much information, real variety of science vs planning vs story. Glad I bought this for the 2024 eclipse got me very excited and better yet, helps me prepare for the next.