A down-to-earth guide about the message of the stars. For astrology to be useful there's no need to have a crystal ball, incense, meditation, or faith. Learn the practical language of astrology in this clear, easy-to-understand exploration that goes way beyond daily horoscopes and zodiac. With it, the reader will be able to calculate and read their own and others' birth charts; tell signs and planets from houses; create daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly planners- even make predictions for the future. With a glossary and further resources, this guide explores: ? Why horoscopes and descriptions of "sun signs" are usually wrong. ? Why many astrologers use the "wrong" zodiac. ? The several different houses system. ? All the planetary aspects that go beyond the sun and moon. ? The many cycles that determine an astrological forecast.