Recommended Texts
Astrology books that the Faculty of Astrological Studies recommend
Astrology books we recommend
Welcome to our curated list of recommended astrology books, designed to support students at every stage of their learning journey. Whether you’re just beginning to explore the fascinating world of astrology or deepening your understanding as an advanced practitioner, these texts provide invaluable insights, guidance, and inspiration. This collection includes foundational works, practical guides, and thought-provoking explorations of astrological theory and practice. We’ve also highlighted publications by our Faculty tutors, including our own Faculty book, which offers a unique perspective on the transformative power of astrology.
Journey Through Astrology:
Charting the Astrological Voyage of Discovery
The book, edited by Laura Andrikopoulos, Cat Cox and Carole Taylor, consists of ten chapters, each written by a different author. The first eight chapters each seek to explore some aspect of the journey through astrology whilst the final two offer reflections on their lives in astrology from two of the world’s most respected astrologers: Darby Costello and Melanie Reinhart.
We believe this current work is unique amongst the currently available astrology-related publications, for this work is not concerned with techniques or interpretation but addresses the inner experience of the astrological journey. It interweaves the personal reflections of the authors with their specific chapter theme.
Recommended texts
General Texts:
These books are ideal for those starting their astrological journey or building on foundational knowledge. They cover essential topics such as planets, signs, houses, aspects, and interpretation techniques.
Clare Martin
- Mapping the Psyche: An Introduction to Psychological Astrology
Volume 1: The Planets and the Zodiac Signs (CPA Press, 2005)
Volume 2: The Planetary Aspects & the Houses of the Horoscope (CPA Press, 2007)
These texts feature transcripts of live classes by Clare Martin, former Faculty President, and are widely praised for their clarity and depth.
- Mapping the Psyche: An Introduction to Psychological Astrology
Sue Farebrother
- Astrology Decoded: A Step-by-Step Guide to Learning Astrology (Rider, 2013)
Written by Faculty tutor Sue Farebrother, this book is an excellent companion to the Faculty Foundation Course, providing a step-by-step approach to mastering astrological themes.
- Astrology Decoded: A Step-by-Step Guide to Learning Astrology (Rider, 2013)
Stephen Arroyo
- Chart Interpretation Handbook (CRCS Publications, 2004)
A timeless classic, offering practical insights into the interpretation of signs, planets, and houses.
- Chart Interpretation Handbook (CRCS Publications, 2004)
Sue Tompkins
- The Contemporary Astrologer’s Handbook (Flare Publications, 2006)
Former Faculty tutor Sue Tompkins delivers a comprehensive guide to chart interpretation, covering all the basics and more.
- The Contemporary Astrologer’s Handbook (Flare Publications, 2006)
Julia & Derek Parker
- Parkers’ Astrology (Dorling Kindersley, re-issue edition 2009)
Co-authored by former Faculty President Julia Parker, this beautifully illustrated book covers astrology from beginner to advanced levels.
- Parkers’ Astrology (Dorling Kindersley, re-issue edition 2009)
Rex E. Bills
- The Rulership Book (American Federation of Astrologers, Inc, 1971)
This reference text offers a detailed list of astrological rulerships, essential for advanced interpretation.
- The Rulership Book (American Federation of Astrologers, Inc, 1971)
Lee Lehman
- The Book of Rulerships (Whitford Press, 2000)
A comprehensive guide to astrological correspondences, perfect for advanced students seeking detailed rulerships.
- The Book of Rulerships (Whitford Press, 2000)
Astrology and Personal Growth:
Books in this section delve deeper into astrology’s role in self-awareness, family dynamics, and spiritual development.
- Lindsay River & Sally Gillespie
- The Knot of Time – Astrology and Female Experience (The Women’s Press Limited, 1987; reprinted 1997)
This book takes an intuitive and feminine approach to astrology, offering a fresh perspective on signs, planets, and houses.
- The Knot of Time – Astrology and Female Experience (The Women’s Press Limited, 1987; reprinted 1997)
Faculty Publications
- “Journey Through Astrology: Charting the Astrological Voyage of Discovery”
Edited by Laura Andrikopoulos, Cat Cox, and Carole Taylor, The Faculty of Astrological Studies Press, 2015
Contributors: Cat Cox, Carole Taylor, Kim Farley, Polly Wallace, Deborah Morgan, Lindsay Radermacher, Diane Conway, Laura Andrikopoulos, Darby Costello, Melanie Reinhart
This Faculty publication offers a unique perspective on what it means to be a student of astrology and the transformative journey of learning this ancient craft. With chapters by multiple authors, it provides insights into the power of astrology to change the lives of those who seriously study it.
Explore More
Explore More:
Looking for additional reading suggestions? Browse our Astrology Library for articles, recordings, and other resources to enrich your studies.
Seminars, Workshops & More
In-Person Event
Winter Weekend 2025 – Astrology Retreat
Online Seminar
Astrology as Storytelling: How Narrative Techniques Can Help Us Engage with Our Own Charts
Online Seminar
