I was really looking forward to reading this book as I'd love to learn more about the subject. However, the download process was misleading. When I saw the book on NetGalley it said the file format was "EPUB", but when I downloaded it - the file was ACSM only, which my e-reader does NOT support. I wish I knew beforehand so I didn't waste my time.

I thought this was an astronomy book. I’m not even kidding. It is really focused on mindful thought and random tidbits of information. Great for someone who’s looking for such things.

Downloaded from Netgalley free in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group – Leaping Hare Press, for the read of Mark Westmoquettes’, Mindful Thoughts for Stargazers.

I was immediately interested in this book by the title.

Mindfulness and stargazing? Bringing the two together appealed to me.

It did not disappoint.

Author Mark Westmoquette uses his expertise in astronomy, adds in his Zen knowledge and gives the reader beautiful illustrations to allow visuals to accompany what they are reading. It is a great balance.

There is such peace when gazing up at the stars against the black expanse but one cannot help but wonder. The book provides excellent information on planets and the universe that will appeal to curious minds, but most importantly for me was how mindfulness can be practiced by getting lost in stargazing.

Mindful Thoughts for Stargazers is a thought-provoking read. The facts and learning are there but it’s also very much about quieting your mind. Noticing the night skies and respecting that expanse of great space and allowing it to guide you to a mindfulness experience.

I can recommend this as a wonderfully unique read.

My opinions expressed in my review are my own.

This is a sweet book for anyone into mindfulness, meditation and looking at the stars. I have never thought of looking at the stars and meditating but can see why I should be giving this a go and will be trying it very soon.

Just from the first glance at the cover, I thought this was a kids picture book, but I was pleasantly surprised that it is more than that. Besides the lovely and delightful illustrations accompanying every section, this book holds very interesting information on how night skies and stargazing can help us practice mindfulness. The astronomic aspects were well explained, and I liked how the author connected the outer universe with what’s been swelling in ourselves. The book asks simple questions but makes you ponder for an answer by taking a moment and pause. It makes you aware of the tiny and simple things around and within you. A very thoughtful take on how to practice mindfulness.

A beautiful and thoughtful book. It links astronomy with the practice of mindfulness. Each short chapter comprises some scientific information, a simple illustration and ideas for practising mindfulness.
I loved the way astronomy was used to illustrate points for consideration. The mystery and awe of the universe and our place in it are wonderfully portrayed.
The book emphasises curiosity and learning. Very thought-provoking.

This book is perfect for someone who loves the stars and the night sky as well as someone who is looking for a way to do some mindful thinking and introspective personal work. This book combines something that most people are interested in --the night sky-- and ways to think about our lives and how we live them each time we look up.

The simple and whimsy illustrations in this book are perfect; they are not too heavy and overthought and add just the right amount of interest. This book is also packed with little facts and tidbits about astronomy that help ground the more philosophical ideas, making it something that is well-balanced and well-informed.

Hugely enjoyable and informative - it's a book I've now read twice and keep find new parts that really make me wonder. Recommended. My wife also loves it.