“This is one of the finest books on the history of visual astronomy I have ever read. Virtually every sentence conveys a bit of history, and it is remarkably illustrated with sharp photographs. I can only suggest that every reader obtain a copy. The writing is excellent.” (Leonard Matula, The Observatory, Vol. 140 (1274), February, 2020)“Neil has skilfully woven an individual path through this ‘golden era’ as he describes it, by recounting in great detail the instruments, books and lives of individuals he considers important to the story. I am confident that many of these will seem equally important to others interested in astronomy. I am planning on re-reading the book again as soon as I have finished this review. I recommend that you seriously consider reading it too.” (John Chuter, Journal of the British Astronomical Association, Vol. 129 (2), April, 2019)“This is a massive tour de force, some 665 pages, profusely illustrated throughout, covering the history of observational astronomy and perhaps more importantly the pioneer astronomers themselves. … The author, himself an enthusiastic amateur astronomer, has a way of making history come alive. He has written with passion something that is both unique in substance and enjoyable in style.” (Azrabella, stargazerslounge.com, December, 21, 2018)
