Letters on Astronomy in which the Elements of the Science are Familiarly Explained in Connection with Biographical Sketches of the Most Eminent Astronomers

"Letters on Astronomy" by Denison Olmsted is an educational work that simplifies the intricate topic of astronomy for a wide audience by turning it into a series of helpful letters and adding stories about famous astronomers. The book is crafted to educate and inspire, inviting readers to explore the cosmos. Olmsted starts by acknowledging a friend eager to learn astronomy but wary of its confusing language. He promises to provide a clear and detailed discussion, enriched with historical tales of important figures in astronomy, such as Copernicus and Newton, explaining that while it can be challenging, its core ideas are simple and can reward those who study them with knowledge and wonder.