"This book is meant for people who want to know just enough about the stars to be able to go out at night and find the major constellations, for the mere pleasure of it."
I think H.A. Rey says it best above. Simple pleasure can be derived from hauling a telescope to an open field on a clear night and looking up. The stars and the constellations they form are fascinating on a lot of levels. Scientifically, we can study what a star is composed of, their life cycle, how their light travels. Mythically, each constellation has a story connected with its name that can be read and enjoyed.
The Stars: a New Way to See Them by H.A. Rey is an excellent guide to astronomy for the beginner whether that be a child or adult. The book is a history text book, constellation guide, science lesson, and fun trivia collection all in one. The Stars: A New Way to See Them was first published in the 40s and has been updated through the years to keep up with advancing discoveries. How many books can print an endorsement from Albert Einstein on the back cover? This one can! My next book purchase will be for my youngest astronomer - a toddler version called Find the Constellations.