[Lismore Bloke (Paul)]

Bought a copy of "The Backyard Astronomer's Guide" by Dickinson and Dyer (Firefly Books) from Dymocks ($49). It would have to be one of the best introductions to the hobby I have seen. It just doesn't cover the basics, but leads on to more advanced topics (digital astro-photography for example). It is quite comprehensive and written from the observer's point of view. It is right up to date with the latest equipment (for example, discussing the Televue Ethos EP). Highly recommended.