{"id":2985,"date":"2018-04-19T18:18:24","date_gmt":"2018-04-19T18:18:24","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/wordpress.library.illinois.edu\/sshel\/?page_id=2985"},"modified":"2026-04-07T21:54:25","modified_gmt":"2026-04-07T21:54:25","slug":"guide-to-astrology","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/wordpress.library.illinois.edu\/sshel\/specialcollections\/mandeville\/mandgui\/guide-to-astrology\/","title":{"rendered":"Guide to Astrology"},"content":{"rendered":"

About the Collection<\/a> | Journals<\/a> | Books by Topic<\/a> | Web Resources<\/a><\/p>\n

About the Collection<\/h2>\n

The University Library\u2019s collection of astrology journals and books was enhanced significantly in 2014 by a donation of material from Michael Erlewine<\/a>, an astrologer, and Internet entrepreneur. Erlewine contacted the University Library in 2009 about possibly donating his collection from the Heart Center Astrological Library in Big Rapids, Michigan. His ultimate goal was to make it available, in its entirety, to a research university for permanent retention. Erlewine\u2019s materials complement the Mandeville Collection of Parapsychology and the Occult Sciences<\/a> and greatly expand those holdings. Part of the Erlewine collection<\/a> includes papers from Gary Duncan (Neil Llewellyn Bloch), an important research astrologer, as well as the extensive collection of Michael Erlewine Papers<\/a>, which are held in the University Archives<\/a>. The Rare Book & Manuscript Library already owns some papers\u00a0from astrologer Sybil Leek<\/a> making the University Library a nexus for astrology research<\/p>\n

Journals<\/h2>\n

133. 5405 AME1a<\/strong> (Main Stacks)
\nHoroscope Guide<\/a>. 2004-.
\nIncludes puzzles, book reviews, articles, and monthly forecasts and daily horoscopes for each sign, plus a yearly guide for the dominating sun sign of each month.<\/p>\n

Q. 133.5 L771<\/strong> (SSHEL Reference, Main Stacks, and Oak Street)
\nLlewellyn’s Astrological Calendar<\/a>. 1985-.
\nThis twelve month wall calendar provides monthly horoscopes as well as astrological details for each day including the moon’s quarter, phase and planetary motion, planting and fishing dates and daily horoscope aspects. Each month features a full color painting inspired by a zodiac sign and information about that sign. Includes an introduction to astrology, a section on lunar gardening, an aspect key, travel and vacation forecasts, and ephemeris tables. Last 5 years available in SSHEL Reference, previous years in Main Stacks and Oak Street.<\/p>\n

Books by Topic<\/h2>\n

All books are shelved in SSHEL Stacks, unless otherwise noted.<\/p>\n

General<\/h3>\n

BF1708.1 .S73 2012<\/strong>
\nArchetypes of Astrology: Unlocking the Mysteries of the Planets, Signs & Houses<\/a>. 2012.
\nExplains the elements of astrology in terms of their mythological origins. A chapter is devoted to each of the twelve archetypes in addition to chapters on special topics.<\/p>\n

133.5014 M925A<\/strong> (SSHEL Reference and Oak Street)
\nThe Astrological Thesaurus: Book 1: House Keywords<\/a>. 1992.
\nThis book draws parallels between the organization of astrology into houses and English grammar, words and, ideas.\u00a0 The first section of the book consists of five chapters which introduce and explain the concept and the remainder of the book is organized by the four quadrants and twelve houses and their associated words. Words for each house are arranged by category, such as things; psychological qualities; and places.\u00a0 Includes an index by word and appendices including an astrological house formulary, directions on how to calculate house cusps, and keywords by topic heading.<\/p>\n

133.5 M454a2000<\/strong>
\nAstrology: A Key to Personality<\/a>. 2000.
\nThis book aims to help the reader gain a better understand of themselves through the various components of their birth chart, including planet and moon nodes, zodiac signs, planetary aspects, houses, and others.<\/p>\n

133.503 T572c<\/strong> (SSHEL Reference)
\nThe Complete Idiot’s Guide to Astrology Dictionary<\/a>. 2010.
\nA guide designed to help laypeople understand astrological terms and apply them to their personal charts.\u00a0 Includes cross-references and symbols indicating the area of astrology each entry pertains to.\u00a0 Arranged alphabetically by term.<\/p>\n

133.509 C156d<\/strong> (Main Stacks)
\nThe Dawn of Astrology: A Cultural History of Western Astrology<\/a>. 2 vols. 2008.
\nA comprehensive history of astrology in the West, divided into two volumes. The first volume covers the prehistoric to classical eras and includes chapters devoted to various ancient civilizations, such as Mesopotamia, the Hebrews, Greece, and Rome.\u00a0 The second volume covers medieval to modern times and is organized mainly by century.<\/p>\n

BF1719 .H47 2016<\/strong>
\nEssential Astrology: Everything You Need to Know to Interpret Your Natal Chart<\/a>. 2016.
\nA step-by-step guide, aimed at beginners, to interpreting all aspects of your natal chart. Includes a glossary and suggestions for further reading.<\/p>\n

133.5 G572g 2009<\/strong>
\nGary Goldschneider’s Everyday Astrology: How to Make Astrology Work for You<\/a>. 2009.
\nFocuses on how each of the twelve sun signs manifest in various types of relationships in the realms of work, romance, friends, and family. Examples include The Aries Boss, The Cancer First Date and the Libra Roommate.\u00a0 Strengths and weaknesses of each sign in each role are given as well as communication tips.<\/p>\n

BF1726 .F465 2012<\/strong>
\nUnexplained Zodiac: The Inside Story to Your Sign<\/a>. 2013.
\nA basic guide to each of the twelve sun signs. Early chapters include a compatibility chart, a list of astrology factoids, and a quick reference guide to the “virtues and vices” of each sign as well as explanations of how each sign bears some of the characteristics of its neighboring and opposing signs on the zodiac.\u00a0 The final twelve chapters each cover a different sign and include sections on looks, careers, health, and more.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By Planet<\/h3>\n

133.533 P329m<\/strong>
\nMercury Retrograde: Its Myth and Meaning<\/a>. 2004.
\nAn in-depth analysis of the often dreaded and misunderstood mercury retrograde phenomenon from mythical, historical, astrological, astronomical and spiritual standpoints. Includes a glossary, recommendations for further reading, and a table of Mercury’s positions from 1910-2026.<\/p>\n

BF1724.2.V45 M3 2006<\/strong> (Main Stacks)
\nVenus: Her Cycles, Symbols & Myths<\/a>. 2006.
\nExplore the many different aspects of the often overlooked Venus, ruler of love, relationships, social life and more.\u00a0 Discusses Venus’ relationship to the four elements and the signs of the zodiac as well as her role in marriage, among many other topics.<\/p>\n

133.534 P429m<\/strong> (Oak Street)
\nThe Mars-Venus Affair: Astrology’s Sexiest Planets<\/a>. 2000.
\nExplains how the position of Mars and Venus in the birth chart affects each person’s love life. Every possible combination is given for a total of 144 profiles.\u00a0 Each profile includes a “case history” detailing the romantic history of a public figure sharing that profile.\u00a0 Includes ephemeris tables.<\/p>\n

133.53 AR69E<\/strong>
\nExploring Jupiter: The Astrological Key to Progress, Prosperity & Potential<\/a>. 1996.
\nInvestigates Jupiter’s effect on personal growth and success. Discusses the planet’s effect on each sun sign and house as well as Jupiter transits. Includes illustrated charts for several celebrities and historical figures.<\/p>\n

133.53 G833S<\/strong> (SSHEL Stacks and Oak Street)
\nSaturn: A New Look at an Old Devil<\/a>. 1979.
\nChallenges the traditional interpretation of Saturn as a purely malignant influence to take into account its role in the process of self-understanding.\u00a0 The book discusses Saturn’s effect on the signs and houses related to each of the four elements and then examines its aspects in the birth chart.<\/p>\n

133.538 T444a<\/strong> (Main Stacks)
\nAlive and Well with Uranus: Transits of Self-Awakening<\/a>. 1999.
\nAn astrological introduction to the disruption and change associated with Uranus transits.\u00a0 Details the effect of Uranus on on each house and planet.<\/p>\n

133.5 F391n<\/strong>
\nNeptune: the 12th House & Pisces: The End of Hope, the Beginning of Truth<\/a>. 2004.
\nThis book fully explores the role of Neptune, Pisces and the 12th House, all of which symbolize and rule over truth and neutrality. The four chapters cover the 14 phases of Pisces, Neptune in each house, each sign in the 12th house, and Neptune transits.<\/p>\n

BF1724.2.P4 D59 2014<\/strong>
\nHarness Astrology’s Bad Boy: A Handbook for Conquering Pluto’s Tumultuous Transit<\/a>. 2014.
\nExplores the traditionally negative influence of Pluto and discusses how it can be turned into a force for good on a personal level. Details the planet’s effect on different generations as well as on each sun sign and zodiac house and includes quick reference charts for each of these topics. Also includes a glossary, recommendations for further reading, and a quick reference chart to figures in Roman mythology.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Special Topics in Astrology<\/h3>\n

133.5 N462d<\/strong> (Main Stacks)
\nDeclination in Astrology: The Steps of the Sun<\/a>. 2006.
\nDeclination is latitudinal form of astrology which “measures how far the Sun and the planets move above and below the celestial, rather than around the zodiac circle.” This book explains this “missing half” of astrology, tying it to mythology, culture and historical events.<\/p>\n

BF1723 .B677 2012<\/strong>
\nMoon’s Nodes: Understanding the Dynamic Ties That Bind<\/a>. 2012.
\nMoon nodes are “diametrically opposite points, which are created by intersections of the path of the Moon with the plane of the eliptic” and which, according to astrology, influence personal growth.\u00a0 This books covers facts and mythology about moon nodes along with their interpretation and influence on each of the houses.\u00a0 Appendices include birth data sources and ephemeris tables.<\/p>\n

133.5 M342H1987<\/strong> (Oak Street)
\nPlanetary Aspects: from Conflict to Cooperation<\/a>. 1987.
\nDirected at those trying to come to terms with squares and oppositions in their natal charts.\u00a0 Covers focal planets and signs; opposing signs and houses; and influences, as well as theory and techniques for handling a T-square.<\/p>\n

133. 532 T662I<\/strong> (Oak Street)
\nLunar Returns<\/a>. 2003.
\nA lunar return is a monthly event that takes place when the moon reaches the same position in the sky that it was when you were born, helping you predict your personal month ahead.\u00a0 This book explains how to interpret a lunar return and outlines its various delineations. Includes example natal charts.<\/p>\n

BF1723 .V53 2013<\/strong> (Oak Street)
\nSolunar Returns<\/a>. 2013.
\n“Each month when the transiting Moon returns to the natal Sun it is known as a solunar return.” Solunar returns are purported by astrology to offer clues about the coming month. This book demonstrates how to set up a solunar return chart and offers example charts for famous people and world events.\u00a0 A worksheet is included.<\/p>\n

BF1717.5 .E44 2017<\/strong>
\nHorary Astrology: The Practical Way to Learn Your Fate: Radical Charts for Student and Professional<\/a>. 2017.
\nHorary astrology is concerned with whether or not something did or will happen at a certain point in time, as opposed to natal astrology which is concerned with how the arrangement of the universe at an individual’s time of birth affects their personality.\u00a0 This book explores the theory of horary astrology, discussses its practical application, and provides dozens of example charts for various fate-related questions.\u00a0 Includes a glossary.<\/p>\n

BF1724 .K46 2015<\/strong>
\nAstrological Transits: The Beginner’s Guide to Using Planetary Cycles to Plan and Predict Your Day, Week, Year (or Destiny)<\/a>. 2015.
\nWhere our birth charts are said to determine our personalities, astrological transits are said to determine everything that happens to us after our birth.\u00a0 This book is divided into three parts: an overview of transits, a section on planetary transits to other planets, and a section on transits in houses.<\/p>\n

133.53 Sa78t<\/strong> (SSHEL Stacks and Oak Street)
\nThe Twelve Houses: An Introduction to the Houses in Astrological Interpretation<\/a>. 1985.
\nThe twelve houses, alongside the planets and the signs of the zodiac, are the third basic element of astrology.\u00a0 This book discusses the themes of each house and how they relate to each other, then follows each of the planets and their corresponding sign or signs as they move through each house. Includes a summary of key concepts, suggestions for further reading, and sources for chart references.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Practical Astrology<\/h3>\n

HG4661 .B83 2013<\/strong> (Main Stacks)
\nThe Bull, The Bear, and the Planets: Trading the Financial Markets Using Astrology<\/a>. 2013.
\nAn investment advisor explains their method for astrology-guided trading. Appendices include lunar event dates, retrograde event dates, sun-planet aspect dates, mercury aspect dates, and first trade dates.\u00a0 A glossary is also included.<\/p>\n

BF1729.M68 D38 2014<\/strong>
\nAstrolocality Astrology: A Guide to What It Is and How to Use It<\/a>. 2014.
\nA guide to the sub-discipline of locality astrology which is concerned with the dimension of space as it relates to astrology. The book explains the concept and demonstrates how it applies everywhere, from different rooms in the home to different spots on the globe.\u00a0 Includes appendices by several guest authors, including Michael Erlewine.<\/p>\n

BF1729.O25 L66 2014<\/strong> (Main Stacks)
\nZodiac Guide to Successful Relationships and Careers: How Research-Based Western and Chinese Astrology Can Help You Make the Big Decisions in Life<\/a>. 2014.
\nAims to help the reader make decisions about both personal relationships and\u00a0 business matters using both Western and Chinese astrology to determine personal strengths and weaknesses.<\/p>\n

BF1701 .L86 2007<\/strong> (Oak Street)
\nSunshines: The Astrology of Being Happy<\/a>. 2007.
\nThis book acknowledges the differences between people born under the same sun sign and how those differences connect to formative experiences, upbringing, and cultural background.\u00a0 It then attempts to leverage this deeper understanding of what sun signs mean into greater happiness for the individual.\u00a0 The first part of the book gives an overview of each of the twelve sun signs and the second half delves into the areas of life affected by sun signs such as money, religion, love and communication.<\/p>\n

133.5 Or336p<\/strong> (Main Stacks)
\nPolitical Astrology<\/a>. 2005.
\nThis book discusses the astrology of national and international events in the political sphere and provides “methodology to validate a national horoscope”, including a Scorpio-rising horoscope for the U.S.\u00a0 Also covers in detail the effect of the asteroids on the so-called Kennedy Curse.\u00a0 Includes lists of horoscopes, tables, and figures; a list of national horoscopes; recommended reading; and the U.S. presidents’ planetary positions through George W. Bush.<\/p>\n

BF1711 .P76 2015<\/strong> (Oak Street)
\nThe Professional Astrologer: Building a Successful Astrology Practice<\/a>. 2015.
\nThis guide, sponsored by the Organization for Professional Astrologers, is aimed at professional and aspiring professional astrologers.\u00a0 It is divided into three parts.\u00a0 The first part is a survey of working astrologers; the second part covers advice on building a sustainable business, creating various streams of income, and professional development; and the third part consists of interviews with professional astrologers.\u00a0 Also includes ethical guidelines and a list of references and resources.<\/p>\n

BF1718 .C736 2013<\/strong>
\nDictionary of Medical Astrology: A Compilation of Astrological Terms (Physical, Emotional and Medical) and Disease Significators Used in Traditional Medical Astrology<\/a>. 2013.
\nThis dictionary lists various medical terms and gives the different planets, houses and signs, or combination of the preceding, that rule over them. Also includes a special section on the hypothetical Uranian planets and their role in medical astrology.<\/p>\n

BF1729 .C75 S25 2012<\/strong> (Oak Street)
\nForensics by the Stars: Astrology Investigates<\/a>. 2012.
\nForensic astrology is the art of trying to determine what happened in unsolved crimes, missing persons cases, and disasters using event horoscopes. The author discusses her astrology-based theories on several famous and less well-known cases. Includes a glossary, astrological tables and other appendices.<\/p>\n

BF1708.1 .D53 2014<\/strong> (Oak Street)
\nSeparating Aspects: The Astrology of Break-Ups, Divorce, and Other Partings<\/a>. 2014.
\nA guide to understanding break-ups aimed at readers with a sophisticated understanding of astrology. Insights are based on the natal charts of the parties in question as well as the timing and nature of the relationship itself.\u00a0 The book also delves into modal and generational astrology.<\/p>\n

BF1729.L6 A53 2013<\/strong> (Main Stacks)
\nFinding a Soul Mate with Astrology<\/a>. 2013
\nAims to help readers find the ideal match by using astrology to first understand themselves and their needs in a relationship. Advice is based on various aspect’s of the reader’s birth chart.<\/p>\n

BF1729.P8 B635 2012<\/strong>
\nPlanets in Therapy: Predictive Technique and the Art of Counseling<\/a>. 2012.
\nThis guide, aimed at “therapeutic astrologers”, explores how astrological transits may affect how we operate on a psychological level.\u00a0 The book begins with an overview of astrology and a look at the foundations and philosophy of “therapeutic astrology”, before going on to discuss astrology as a therapeutic tool in different life situations.\u00a0 Includes several case studies.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Non-Western Traditions<\/h3>\n

The Medicine Wheel: Earth Astrology<\/a>. 1980. (Oak Street)
\nA nature-based Native American form of astrology based on the moon, the cardinal directions, and the four elements. The book discussed each of these components and their variations and includes a guide to understanding the medicine wheel as well as creating one yourself.<\/p>\n

BF1714.H5 M36 2017<\/strong>
\nJyotish: The Art of Vedic Astrology<\/a>. 2017.
\nJyotish, or “the science of starlight”, is India’s traditional astrology. This book discusses the roles of the moon, sun, planets, zodiac and houses in Jyotish as well as its connection to Ayurveda, among other topics. Appendices include a quick reference guide to the planets, a seasonal calendar, and more.\u00a0 Also includes a list of further resources.<\/p>\n

BF1714.C5 S44 2006<\/strong>
\nSimple Chinese Astrology<\/a>. 2006.
\nThe book attempts to be a simplified guide to the complex art of Chinese astrology. One chapter is devoted to each of the twelve signs. Each chapter includes the sign’s associations, a personality overview, the different types of each sign (based on the element associated with a particular year), and the influence of time of birth on the personality. Also includes a general outlook through 2020.<\/p>\n

F1219. 76.A83 S36 2017<\/strong>
\nDay-Signs: Native American Astrology from Ancient Mexico<\/a>. 2017.
\nIn this Pre-Columbian Mexican form of astrology people are born under the influence of one of twenty day-signs, based on animals and other elements of nature, as well as the 13 day period in which they were born, similar to the Western sun and moon signs.\u00a0 This book includes tables for finding your day-sign and 13 day period, and the chapters of the book help you interpret their meanings.<\/p>\n

133.50902 W892208<\/strong> (Main Stacks)
\nWorks of Sahl & Masha’allah<\/a>. 2008.
\nThese collected and translated works of two of the most influential and celebrated astrologers of the Arabic period cover natal, horary and predictive techniques, among others. An extensive introduction helps explain some of the unfamiliar terms and mechanics of this medieval form of astrology.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Web Resources<\/h2>\n

General Resources<\/h3>\n

Astrology Online Catalogue<\/a> (Alexandria iBase Project<\/a>)
This online catalog has over 9,000 records for materials associated with astrology, including digital versions of works in the public domain, individual issues of publications, and donations from private libraries of professional astrologers. Alexandria iBase Project also includes a special collection of digitized copies of The Mercury Hour magazine.<\/p>\n

Cafe Astrology: Free Astrology Birth Chart<\/a>
\nUpon entering your date, time and place of birth, this website will generate your birth chart, accompanied by a detailed explanation of each of its aspects. Also offers a tailored daily horoscope and the option to add a second person for a compatibility profile.<\/p>\n

Associations and Organizations<\/h3>\n

American Federation of Astrologers<\/a>
\nOffers courses and certification in astrology in addition to publishing manuscripts on the topic.<\/p>\n

Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Astrologie<\/a>
\nCentre Universitaire de Recherche en Astrologie (or The International Astrology Research Center) is a French website, readable in French, English, Italian and Spanish that contains scholarly explanations of the mechanics of astrology and its history as well as various theoretical and critical works on the subject.\u00a0 The site also maintains a forum in both French and English.<\/p>\n

International Society for Astrological Research<\/a>
\nDedicated to astrological research, this organization publishes a journal, offers certification and accreditation programs, holds conferences, and provides news coverage on astrology via its website.<\/p>\n

Organization for Professional Astrology<\/a>
\nOffers astrology education and trainings through webinars, conferences, and retreats, and awards OPA Professional Astrologer certifications to qualified members of their organization.<\/p>\n

United Astrology Conference<\/a>
\nConference featuring workshops, lectures, and social events of interest to practitioners of astrology.<\/p>\n

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Resources<\/h3>\n

Bibliography on Hindu Astrology
\n<\/a>Includes a variety of practical and analytical works on Hindu astrology.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

About the Collection | Journals | Books by Topic | Web Resources About the Collection The University Library\u2019s collection of astrology journals and books was enhanced significantly in 2014 by a donation of material from Michael Erlewine, an astrologer, and Internet entrepreneur. Erlewine contacted the University Library in 2009 about possibly donating his collection from […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":135,"featured_media":0,"parent":781,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-2985","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.library.illinois.edu\/sshel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2985","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.library.illinois.edu\/sshel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.library.illinois.edu\/sshel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.library.illinois.edu\/sshel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.library.illinois.edu\/sshel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2985"}],"version-history":[{"count":21,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.library.illinois.edu\/sshel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2985\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12438,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.library.illinois.edu\/sshel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2985\/revisions\/12438"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.library.illinois.edu\/sshel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/781"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.library.illinois.edu\/sshel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2985"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}