Arny: Explorations-An Introduction to Astronomy, 3rd edition Updated, is built on the foundation of its well known writing style, accuracy, and emphasis on current information. This new edition continues to offer the most complete technology/new media support package available. That technology/new media package includes: 6 NEW Interactives, PowerWeb (web-based research and interactive quizzing - very current); Online Learning Center (that allows instructors to take their course to the web if they choose); and a CD-ROM that offers new and different text material/animations/links to even further enhance student comprehension.
That's an excellent textbook that deserves a proper review. Unfortunately, I don't have time right now, but I going to write about the book's strengths (they are aplenty) and flaws (there are really very few of them) in 2022. In the meantime, my advice is this: buy it and read it. Can't recommend it highly enough.
For an astronomy textbook (or really even a textbook in general), this is actually not a terrible read. The author is very clear in most of his explanations and seems to enjoy food metaphors (fine by me). Covers the basics of astronomy. He also has a few sassy moments which actually made me giggle.
Favorite quote: "The Universe doesn't care about our convenience"
Is it socially acceptable to have a favorite quote from an astronomy textbook? I don't even like science....
While the class I took did not cover every page of this book. I found it useful for the introduction to astronomy class I took in college. Its useful but not entertaining.