The Planets

Perhaps because British science writer Henbest has guided this tour at least five times previously, ( Exploring the Universe et al.) the patter is first rate. For the ``grand tour'' in hand, moreover, he has the advantage computer-enhanced snapshots show: state-of-the-science satellite images, reproduced in color and black-and-white, of all the planets and major moons, save Pluto and Charon. This is a pleasure tour emphasizing the classic astronomic mysteries and anomalies that keep astronomers out of church. Except for the patronizing mistake in the subtitle--several of the photos are from Soviet, not American, space probes--this is a fine, but probably not the final tour from a veteran guide to the solar system. Astronomy Book Club main selection. (Jan.)