In the posts below I explain the fascinating stories behind each star sign and how you can look for your star sign – which is also a constellation – in the night sky. Each star sign has a very interesting history. Do you know that the study of our star signs is called astrology? And did you also know that in ancient times, astrology was considered as important as astronomy is today. Ancient astrologers mapped the movements of celestial bodies, such as the planets and the constellations. From this they predicted human events and people’s personality traits; believed to be based on the alignment of the planets and stars at the precise moment of birth.
The Zodiac – which is a name for all twelve star signs – comes from the Latin term Zōdiacus, which in turn comes from the Greek- Zōdiakos Kyklos- meaning circle of animals: Half of the Zodiac constellations are animals!
Our star signs first came into being thousands of years ago. The ancient Babylonians started to notice how certain constellations rotated around every year. They started giving names to these constellations. The ancient Hebrews added to this ancient knowledge, as did the Egyptians, then the Greeks and the Romans. The astrologer and astronomer Ptolemy of ancient Egypt was particularly important in laying the foundations of western astrology.
Aquarius
Aquarius represents those born from January 20—February 18. Despite beginning our year – in astrological terms – it’s the 11th sign of the zodiac. Star signs are part of astrology, which is not considered a science, but are still a lot of fun! However in ancient times, it was taken as seriously as astronomy is today!
Myth and Legend: The ancient Babylonians and Egyptians both recognized this constellation. Even back then the constellation was thought of as the water carrier. This may be due to the fact that heavy flooding and rain occurred at the same time as the appearance of the constellation. In Greek mythology, the water carrier’s image became that of Ganymede. Ganymede was a young man and so incredibly handsome that his beauty even caught the eye of the Gods themselves. Zeus had him kidnapped by an eagle and brought up to Mount Olympus, where he served as the Gods’official cup bearer. Nowadays with such looks, you might become a highly paid movie-star or model. But back in ancient Greece, what did good looks get you? A career, as a slave, for all eternity! And people say the past was better?
Constellation: Aquarius can be seen in the southern hemisphere in the spring and the northern hemisphere in the fall. Use a star map as a guide. It also helps to have someone knowledgeable with you, to help spot the constellation. Otherwise, it just looks like a series of random dots in the sky. Which of course it is! In the northern hemisphere the best viewing time is October at 9pm.
Post Below: Pisces Constellation
Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage. These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).
Coming soon! The third book in the series, Amelia, the Merballs and the Emerald Cannon, is scheduled for publication February 2018.
Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?
Book One: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace
When is a present not a present? When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto! Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon. Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help. Should Amelia venture into outer Space?
Click below for a preview:
Or
“Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews
“The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.” —Beautiful Books for Children
Book Two: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage
Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help. His sister is very sick. The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune. With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest. More items are needed to buy the crystal. But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens. Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?
“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.” Kirkus Reviews
5/5 star rating! “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com
Click below for a preview:
or
Pisces
Pisces represents those born from February 19—March 20. Despite being near the beginning of our calendar year – in astrological terms – it is the 12th and final sign of the Zodiac.
Myth and Legend: So what do the two fish represent? Some ancient God’s pets? No, the myth of Pisces begins with a monster, a particularly terrible monster named Typhoeus. The father of all monsters, he was a fire breathing dragon that never slept and had over a hundred heads. Sounds cute eh? Side note, he later married another monster and had lots of baby monsters such as the Sphinx, the Nemean Lion and that ultimate lapdog Cerberus, the three headed dog of the underworld!
One day Typhoeus appeared and decided to get rid of all the Olympian Gods. They all fled in terror from him. The Greek Goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite, (Venus in Roman mythology) was sitting with her son Eros, (Cupid in Roman mythology) on the banks of the river Euphrates, when Typhoeus ran at them. To escape the monster, they changed themselves into fish and swam away in the river. In order not to lose one another, they tied their fins together with cord.
Athena, the Greek Goddess of wisdom and knowledge, (Minerva in Roman mythology) commemorated their escape by placing them in the sky as the Pisces constellation.
Constellation: Pisces is a difficult constellation to spot, due to its’ large size and dim looking stars. Dim as in light not as in brains! Constellations don’t have brains, as far as I know! It can be best seen in the northern hemisphere between November 6th and November 9th at 9pm (between latitudes 90 degrees and minus 65 degrees). In the southern hemisphere, look for the Pisces constellation in mid-spring. Use a star map as a guide. As always a knowledgeable person with you, to help find the constellation can be very helpful!
Extra Fun Fact: Did you know that the Pisces constellation has twenty one main stars? Overall it is the 14th largest constellation.
Post Below: Aries Constellation.
Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage. These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).
Coming soon! The third book in the series, Amelia, the Merballs and the Emerald Cannon, is scheduled for publication February 2018.
Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?
Book One: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace
When is a present not a present? When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto! Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon. Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help. Should Amelia venture into outer Space?
Click below for a preview:
Or
“Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews
“The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.” —Beautiful Books for Children
Book Two: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage
Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help. His sister is very sick. The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune. With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest. More items are needed to buy the crystal. But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens. Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?
“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.” Kirkus Reviews
5/5 star rating! “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com
Click below for a preview:
or
Aries
Aries represents those born from March 21—April 19. It’s early spring in our calendar year, but for star signs Aries is the first Zodiac sign of the year!
Myth and Legend: So what’s the story behind the Aries constellation? Well, the myth begins with a classic dysfunctional Greek family. Ino, the evil stepmother of two children – Phrixus and Nelle – decided to sacrifice them to appease the Gods during a long drought; In reality, she just wanted to get rid of them.
Their real mother Nephele – a cloud nymph, which was a career back in ancient Greece -sent a winged ram with a golden fleece to rescue her children. The winged ram carried the children away. Tragically Helle fell off the ram and drowned – Hellespont strait is named in her memory. Phrixus survived the journey, arriving at the court of King Aeёtes of Colchis. He gave the ram to the King as a gift and ended up marrying his daughter!
King Aeёtes kept the Golden Fleece in a sacred grove, protected by a dragon that never slept. Now you’ve probably heard about Jason and the Argonauts and the Golden Fleece from Greek Mythology? Well the story ends with Jason, who outwitted the dragon and stole the fleece. Zeus (lord of the Greek Gods) commemorated Jason’s epic quest by putting Aries the ram up in the sky as a constellation.
Constellation: Aries as a constellation is quite the let down. It looks nothing like a golden fleece, a ram’s head or even a pair of ram’s horns. At best if you squint, it looks like half a ram’s horn. Frankly they need to invent another myth about a monster that made off with the other horn! But, if you’re still interested in looking for this constellation, it’s best viewed in December at 9pm (between latitudes 90 degrees and minus 60 degrees). There are only three bright stars in the constellation to look out for. A star map is always very useful, as well as the help of a knowledgeable star gazer.
Extra Fun Fact: Aries means the ram in Latin.
Post Below: Taurus Constellation.
Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage. These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).
Coming soon! The third book in the series, Amelia, the Merballs and the Emerald Cannon, is scheduled for publication February 2018.
Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?
Book One: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace
When is a present not a present? When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto! Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon. Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help. Should Amelia venture into outer Space?
Click below for a preview:
Or
“Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews
“The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.” —Beautiful Books for Children
Book Two: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage
Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help. His sister is very sick. The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune. With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest. More items are needed to buy the crystal. But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens. Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?
“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.”Kirkus Reviews
5/5 star rating! “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com
Click below for a preview:
or
Taurus
Taurus represents those born from April 20—May 20. It’ spring in our calendar year, but Taurus is the second Zodiac sign of the year, right after Aries!
Myth and Legend: Zeus, leader of the Greek Gods (Jupiter in Roman mythology) fell for a young lady called Europa, a princess of Phoenicia. In order to attract her attention, he changed form into that of a beautiful, gentle white bull. Europa petted and played with the kind bull. Eventually she got on his back and the bull swam into the sea, all the way to Crete (a Greek island).
Once there he revealed his true identity to Europa as Zeus, king of the Gods. Later to commemorate their story, Zeus recreated the shape of the bull and cast it into the night sky as a constellation—the Taurus constellation!
Element Sign: This star-sign is an earth sign! The other earth signs are Virgo and Capricorn. Earth signs are practical and rooted to the earth and their surroundings. They also love shopping! But Taureans can be a bit like King Midas—there’s never enough gold—and we all know how that tale ended!
Constellation: Taurus as a constellation is one of the better ones. For one thing it’s a huge constellation and like the bull it represents, it charges through the night sky! It also actually looks like the creature that it represents, that of a bull’s head—although a very skinny bull—making a change from the squinting and active imagination you have to use with most of the other constellations! If you want to look for the Taurus constellation, it’s best viewed in December and January (between latitudes 40° degrees and longitude 95° degrees west)in the northern hemisphere and early spring in the southern hemisphere. A star map is useful, as well as the help of a knowledgeable star gazer.
Extra Fun Fact: Taurus is Latin for bull.
Post Below: Gemini Constellation
Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage. These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).
Coming soon! The third book in the series, Amelia, the Merballs and the Emerald Cannon, is scheduled for publication February 2018.
Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?
Book One: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace
When is a present not a present? When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto! Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon. Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help. Should Amelia venture into outer Space?
Click below for a preview:
Or
“Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews
“The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.” —Beautiful Books for Children
Book Two: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage
Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help. His sister is very sick. The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune. With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest. More items are needed to buy the crystal. But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens. Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?
“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.”Kirkus Reviews
5/5 star rating! “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com
Click below for a preview:
or
Gemini
Gemini represents those born from May 21—June 20. It’ late spring and early summer in our calendar year, but Gemini is the third Zodiac sign of the year, directly after Taurus!
Myth and Legend: Gemini the twins represents Castor and Pollux from Greek mythology. They had the same mother-Leda-but different fathers. Pollux’s father was the God Zeus-Jupiter in Roman mythology-yet again! Castor’s father was Leda’s husband, King Tyndareus of Sparta. Pollux was immortal, due to the handy fact that his father happened to be a God. Unfortunately Castor his twin, who only had a king as a father-the poor thing-was merely mortal.
The two Greek brothers grew up to become famous explorers and warriors. They sailed with Jason in search of the Golden Fleece; the story behind the Aries constellation. Then they fought in the Trojan War: Helen of Troy, their half sister had left her husband Menelaus, for Paris of Troy, and the brothers were determined to bring her home.
Tragically Castor dies in the Trojan War. Overcome with grief, Pollux his immortal twin, pleads with Zeus to let his brother share his immortality. Zeus responds by placing the twins in the night sky as the Gemini constellation.
Constellation: This constellation looks exactly like twins—well if you like twin stick figures drawn by five year olds! By as stick drawings go, it does resemble two people hand in hand. The Gemini constellation is unique in the Zodiac, in that two stars make up the twins’ heads. Pollux as the immortal twin has the largest bright orange—cranial — star. Castor, his mortal brother has a smaller blue white star.
If you want to look for the Gemini constellation, you can see it anytime between January and May. The best viewing times are January and February at around 9pm; between latitudes + 90° and – 60° in the northern hemisphere. If you live in the southern hemisphere, look for the Gemini constellation in summer. Use a star map as a guide and an experienced star gazer to assist you is also helpful.
Extra Fun Fact: Gemini is Latin for Twins. The heads of the twins are represented by two stars.
Post Below: Cancer Constellation
Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage. These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).
Coming soon! The third book in the series, Amelia, the Merballs and the Emerald Cannon, is scheduled for publication February 2018.
Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?
Book One: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace
When is a present not a present? When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto! Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon. Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help. Should Amelia venture into outer Space?
Click below for a preview:
Or
“Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews
“The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.” —Beautiful Books for Children
Book Two: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage
Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help. His sister is very sick. The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune. With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest. More items are needed to buy the crystal. But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens. Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?
“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.”Kirkus Reviews
5/5 star rating! “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com
Click below for a preview:
or
Cancer
Cancer represents those born from June 21—July 22. Cancer is the fourth Zodiac sign of the year, directly after Gemini.
Myth and Legend: As usual we turn to the Greeks for the myths behind the cancer constellation. It starts off with the Greek Goddess Hera, wife of Zeus being… jealous. Hera spends most of her time on Mount Olympus being jealous of someone or other. It’s her raison d’être. Anyway this time Hera was jealous of Heracles, (Hercules in Latin) the famous Greek hero and spent a lot of time and energy attempting to kill him.
One of the twelve labors of Heracles, (Hercules) was to destroy the Hydra, a terrifying nine-headed water serpent. During this battle Hera sent a gigantic crab to help the Hydra slay our Greek hero. But Heracles (Hercules) was so strong, he crushed the poor crab with his mere foot! For his loyal —but unfortunate service —Hera placed the crab in the night sky as the cancer constellation.
Constellation: the constellation is even worse than the glyph. Whoever decided this constellation could pass for a crab must have been mad. Yes, completely stark raving mad! My cat looks more like a crab—well he acts like it occasionally—than the cancer constellation. At best it looks like a lopsided upside down Y. That’s about it!
If you want to look for the Cancer constellation the best viewing time is in March, around 9pm; between latitudes + 90° and – 60° in the northern hemisphere. If you live in the southern hemisphere, look for the Cancer constellation in the autumn/fall. It’s a dim constellation and can be very hard to see with the naked eye. Use a star map as a guide and the help of an experienced star gazer.
Extra Fun Fact: Cancer is Latin for Crab. It comes from the Greek language originally and it means crabs and crayfish
Post Below: Leo Constellation
Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage. These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).
Coming soon! The third book in the series, Amelia, the Merballs and the Emerald Cannon, is scheduled for publication February 2018.
Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?
Book One: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace
When is a present not a present? When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto! Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon. Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help. Should Amelia venture into outer Space?
Click below for a preview:
Or
“Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews
“The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.” —Beautiful Books for Children
Book Two: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage
Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help. His sister is very sick. The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune. With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest. More items are needed to buy the crystal. But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens. Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?
“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.”Kirkus Reviews
5/5 star rating! “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com
Click below for a preview:
or
Leo
Leo represents those born from July 23—August 22. Leo is the fifth Zodiac sign of the year, right after Cancer.
Myth and Legend: In ancient Greek mythology Leo represents the lion and one lion in particular: The Nemean lion. This lion was much larger and tougher than a normal lion. For it was also the child of two monsters; Typhon and Echidna. After eating lots of people in Nemea, the famous Greek hero Hercules (Heracles) was ordered to kill it, as the first of his twelve labors.
Unfortunately, the Nemean lion had an incredibly tough hide, so normal arrows and spears simply bounced off its’ golden fur. Hercules overcame this problem with his legendary strength. He first wrestled, then strangled the lion. He later wore the animal’s skin as a cloak. Its special fur helped to protect him from other dangers.
It was later placed in the sky by the Gods, because the lion was considered king of all the beasts on Earth.
Hercules slaying the Nemean lion. Roman mosaic Lliria, Spain: Credit Wikipedia
Constellation: The Leo constellation is a big improvement on many other star clusters, in that the body of the constellation actually does look like a large cat resting. The head however is another story. Where’s the lion’s majestic profile and magnificent mane? This head is more hook than handsome. In fact, the whole Leo constellation honestly looks more like a coat hanger, than the mightiest of the beasts. But as constellations go—I have to admit —it’s more realistic than most.
When can you see the Leo constellation in the night sky? Well it’s easier to spot than most, due to the body of the constellation looking like—a big cat! The best viewing time is in April at around 9pm; between latitudes + 90° and – 65° in the northern hemisphere. If you live in the southern hemisphere, look for the Leo constellation in the summer and autumn/fall. As always use a star map as a guide and a knowledgeable star gazer is a big help.
Extra Fun Fact: Leo is Latin for lion. And did you know that lions used to live in Greece? Yes, until about 100BC, when they became extinct!
Post Below Virgo Constellation
Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage. These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).
Coming soon! The third book in the series, Amelia, the Merballs and the Emerald Cannon, is scheduled for publication February 2018.
Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?
Book One: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace
When is a present not a present? When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto! Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon. Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help. Should Amelia venture into outer Space?
Click below for a preview:
Or
“Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews
“The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.” —Beautiful Books for Children
Book Two: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage
Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help. His sister is very sick. The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune. With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest. More items are needed to buy the crystal. But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens. Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?
“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.”Kirkus Reviews
5/5 star rating! “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com
Click below for a preview:
or
Virgo
Virgo represents those born from August 23—September 22. Virgo is the sixth Zodiac sign of the year, right after Leo.
Myth and Legend: The constellation Virgo is associated with many myths, which differ depending on the civilization. Even in Greco-Roman mythology, this constellation has a couple of different stories. We’re going to focus on the most popular story, that of Persephone, a beautiful young goddess and the daughter of Zeus and Demeter.
Hades, Lord of the Underworld fell in love with Persephone. One bright spring day while she was gathering flowers, Hades appeared out of the earth, riding a chariot with four coal black horses. He charged towards Persephone, grabbed her and placed her in the chariot. A chasm then appeared in the earth ahead of them and the chariot then plunged back into the underworld.
Demeter, Persephone’s mother, was the goddess of agriculture. Furious at her daughter’s abduction, she deliberately ruined all the harvests. Soon the people were starving. Zeus spoke with Hades about releasing Persephone. Hades reluctantly agreed, but persuaded Persephone- who previously had not eaten since she arrived in the underworld – to consume a single pomegranate seed. It was a sly trick on Hades part, as anyone who eats in the Underworld may never leave it! After further negotiation with Zeus, it was agreed that Persephone would spend six months of the year with her mother. Her mother delighted, would begin the sowing that starts in spring and leads to the summer harvest. The other six months of the year, Persephone would spend with Hades in the Underworld. Demeter her mother would go into mourning during this time and so the seasons of fall/autumn and winter came to pass.
The constellation was placed in the sky to commemorate the beautiful young maiden Persephone and explain the story behind the earth’s seasons.
Constellation: Does the Virgo constellation resemble a beautiful young maiden? Well you need a lot of imagination to see that. It mostly looks like a stick figure, stuck in the sky. But if you draw in some hair and a dress…yeah I can sort of see a young woman now.
The best viewing time for the Virgo constellation is in May at around 9pm; between latitudes + 80° and – 80° in the northern hemisphere. If you live in the southern hemisphere, look for the Virgo constellation in the autumn/fall and winter. Use a star map as a guide and a knowledgeable star gazer to assist you.
Extra Fun Fact: Virgo is Latin for virgin. The Virgo constellation is the second biggest and contains Spica, one of the brightest stars in the night sky.
Post Below: Libra Constellation
Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage. These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).
Coming soon! The third book in the series, Amelia, the Merballs and the Emerald Cannon, is scheduled for publication February 2018.
Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?
Book One: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace
When is a present not a present? When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto! Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon. Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help. Should Amelia venture into outer Space?
Click below for a preview:
Or
“Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews
“The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.” —Beautiful Books for Children
Book Two: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage
Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help. His sister is very sick. The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune. With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest. More items are needed to buy the crystal. But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens. Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?
“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.” Kirkus Reviews
5/5 star rating! “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com
Click below for a preview:
or
Libra
Libra represents those born from September 23—October 22. Libra is the seventh Zodiac sign of the year, right after Virgo.
Myth and Legend: Way back in ancient times, the Libra constellation was known as the claws… of the scorpion! But that dramatic description fell out of favor and the constellation over time became known as simply, ‘The Scales,’ meaning justice, balance and harmony. It’s related to the Virgo constellation. Virgo is shown as a beautiful young woman —and often the Goddess Astraea— who carries the scales of justice in her hands: Those scales are the Libra constellation. Libra is also visible in the Autumn/Fall equinox, when the days and nights are of equal length and so in balance.
Constellation:
Do we think this collection of stars actually looks like a pair of scales? The top maybe? Although you have to imagine the weighing scales at the bottom. Personally, I think it most resembles an unfinished tetrahedron, but where’s the myth in a geometric shape?
Libra is not a dramatic constellation. If you can find the nearby bright stars of Spica and Antares, you can then see the fainter stars in Libra. The most visible star in Libra is the crazily named Zubeneschamail, Beta Librae! Then there is Apha Librae and Gamma Librae. These three stars make up the upper part of the scale.
The best viewing time for the Libra constellation is in June at around 9pm; between latitudes + 65° and – 90° in the northern hemisphere. If you live in the southern hemisphere, look for the Libra constellation in the autumn/fall and winter. Use a star map as a guide and a knowledgeable star gazer to assist you.
Extra Fun Fact: Libra means “the weighing scales” in Latin. The scales are held by the Roman Goddess, Astraea (Dike in Greek Mythology).
Post Below: Scorpio Constellation
Scorpio
Scorpio represents those born from October 23—November 21. Scorpio is the eighth Zodiac sign of the year, right after Libra.
Myth and Legend: The legend of Scorpio starts with the Greek hero Orion. Orion was a master hunter and showoff. He declared himself the best hunter and bragged that he would kill all the animals on Earth. His boasts offended the Gods, particularly Gaia— Goddess of the Earth. Gaia created a giant scorpion to be rid of Orion. The terrifying scorpion chased after Orion, eventually stinging him to death. Zeus, ruler of the Gods placed both Orion and the Scorpion up in the night sky as constellations. But he took care to place them far apart, so they could not fight anymore!
Constellation: Scorpio is one of the biggest and brightest constellations in the night sky. And it actually looks like what it represents— a scorpion—unlike most of the other constellations! However, like much in life it has been downsized. Under the ancient Greeks, Scorpio possessed claws. These were taken away by the Romans, who gave them to Libra, where they became the Scales of Justice. The best viewing time for the Scorpio constellation is in early to mid-July at around 9pm, between latitudes + 40°and -90° in the northern hemisphere. If you live in the southern hemisphere, you can also see the Scorpio constellation at the same time. In fact, you’ll get an even better view! Use a star map as a guide and a knowledgeable star gazer to assist you.
Extra Fun Fact: Scorpio is Latin for Scorpion. Scorpio literally means creature with a burning sting! Antares — a giant bright red star— marks the center of the Scorpio constellation.
Post Below: Sagittarius Constellation
Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage. These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).
Coming soon! The third book in the series, Amelia, the Merballs and the Emerald Cannon, is scheduled for publication February 2018.
Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?
Book One: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace
When is a present not a present? When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto! Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon. Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help. Should Amelia venture into outer Space?
Click below for a preview:
Or
“Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews
“The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.” —Beautiful Books for Children
Book Two: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage
Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help. His sister is very sick. The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune. With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest. More items are needed to buy the crystal. But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens. Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?
“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.” Kirkus Reviews
5/5 star rating! “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com
Click below for a preview:
or
Sagittarius
Sagittarius represents those born from November 22—December 21. Sagittarius is the ninth Zodiac sign of the year, right after Scorpio.
Myth and Legend: Sagittarius the Archer is the Centaur Chiron from Greek Mythology. Centaurs have the head and upper torso of a man and lower body of a horse. Of all the centaurs, Chiron was the most respected. He taught famous Greek heroes such as Jason, Hercules and Achilles and he was considered a superb musician, physician and of course archer!
Unfortunately, one day Chiron was shot by a poisoned arrow (from the Learnean Hydra) from one of his former students; the mighty Hercules himself. The stray arrow was an accident, but as Chiron was immortal he could not die, but still suffered greatly from the poisoning. Chiron went to the Gods and offered to give up his immortality, so that he could die. He asked the Gods if he could replace Prometheus, who originally gave fire to man: The Gods punished Prometheus for his gift to man and ever since he had been chained to rocks. Zeus, ruler of the Greek Gods (Jupiter in Roman mythology) – touched by Chiron’s kindness in relieving Prometheus from his endless pain – put Chiron in the night sky as the Sagittarius constellation.
Constellation: This constellation looks more like a dancing spider, than a mythological half man/half beast. But that’s constellations for you! Probably the result of poor eyesight in the time before contacts!
The best viewing time for the Sagittarius constellation is in August at around 9pm, between latitudes + 55° and – 90° in the northern hemisphere. If you live in the southern hemisphere, you have the best view of this southerly constellation. Your time to stargaze is in the middle of the winter, when Sagittarius is directly overhead in the night sky. As always use a star map as a guide and if possible a knowledgeable star gazer to assist you.
Extra Fun Fact: Sagittarius is Latin for The Archer. It is usually depicted as a Centaur —mythological creature with the torso of a human and the body of a horse—pulling back a bow.
Post Below: Capricorn Constellation
Coming soon! The third book in the series, Amelia, the Merballs and the Emerald Cannon, is scheduled for publication February 2018.
Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?
Book One: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace
When is a present not a present? When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto! Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon. Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help. Should Amelia venture into outer Space?
Click below for a preview:
Or
“Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews
“The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.” —Beautiful Books for Children
Book Two: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage
Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help. His sister is very sick. The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune. With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest. More items are needed to buy the crystal. But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens. Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?
“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.” Kirkus Reviews
5/5 star rating! “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com
Click below for a preview:
or
Capricorn
Capricorn represents those born from December 22—January 19. Capricorn is the tenth Zodiac sign of the year, right after Sagittarius.
Myth and Legend: The origin of Capricorn mythology is shrouded in mystery. Capricorn is often represented as either a goat or a sea-goat. As a sea-goat, it is shown with the tail of a fish. Ancient Greek myths often had sea-goats depicted in their art, but little is known about the origins of these drawings. One story that has been passed down through the ages, begins with the sea-goat Pricus.
Pricus was the father of all the sea-goats; thought to be highly intelligent creatures that lived in the sea, but near the shoreline. This special race of goats had the gifts of speech, reason and were highly favored by the gods.
Pricus is associated with the God Chronos—the God of time— and he shares Chronos’s ability to manipulate time. Pricus’s children were drawn to the shore and began to spend more and more time out of the water. They would drag themselves to the beach and lay in the sun. Overtime their fish tails turned into hind legs and they lost their abilities to speak and think, becoming the simple goats that we know today.
The clever father sea-goat Pricus was very upset with this transformation. He feared that one day all his children would lose their intelligence and unique abilities and become mindless animals, who would not be able to return to the sea.
So Pricus hatched a plot. He used his ability to reverse time, so that the normal goats reverted back to sea-goats swimming in the sea, talking and thinking just as before. But no matter how many times Pricus reversed time, his children continued to be drawn to the shore. Time and time again their fish tails turned to legs and their special powers faded away.
Pricus finally realized he cannot control destiny and he allows his children to choose their future; that of becoming simple goats. Soon he is all alone and absolutely miserable. He asks Chronos to let him die. Instead Chronos allows him to continue his immortality in the night sky as the Capricorn constellation. From the stars, he can still see all his descendants running all over the mountain tops. And that concludes the strange, peculiar tale that is the Capricorn legend!
Constellation: So does anyone think the Capricorn constellation looks anything like a sea-goat? No of course not, it looks more like a bandana than any actual animal. Maybe a bandana that you’d put on a pet goat, if you’re into dressing up your smelly pet goat? But constellations for the most part seem to follow a basic rule, look absolutely nothing like the object you’re supposed to represent!
The best viewing time for the Capricorn constellation is in September at around 9pm; between latitudes + 60° and – 90° in the northern hemisphere. If you live in the southern hemisphere, look for the Capricorn constellation in the spring. As always. use a star map as a guide and a knowledgeable star gazer to assist you.
Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage. These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).
Coming soon! The third book in the series, Amelia, the Merballs and the Emerald Cannon, is scheduled for publication February 2018.
Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?
Book One: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace
When is a present not a present? When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto! Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon. Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help. Should Amelia venture into outer Space?
Click below for a preview:
Or
“Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews
“The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.” —Beautiful Books for Children
Book Two: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage
Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help. His sister is very sick. The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune. With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest. More items are needed to buy the crystal. But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens. Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?
“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.” Kirkus Reviews
5/5 star rating! “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com
Click below for a preview:
or
Amelia's Amazing Space Adventures 