Steven Forrest demystifies astrology as a dynamic language of signs (energies), planets (drives), houses (life arenas), and aspects (tensions), teaching beginners to read charts holistically for self-discovery, not fate — evolutionary style emphasizes growth options over predictions. Structured with the basics of astrologer in an accessible, poetic tone to better understand celestial influences and free will. He uses vivid examples blending myth, psych, and real charts, uniquely framing reincarnation lessons as empowering choices, turning "what's wrong" into "soul's next step." 

What you can get from reading it

• Core astrological components: signs as psychological flavors, planets as mythic actors, houses as life stages — with creative synthesis: step-by-step guidance on putting components together and build fluency decoding any chart intuitively.
• Aspect dynamics like conjunctions forging power or squares sparking growth, etc.
• Evolutionary signatures: Pluto and the North & South nodes revealing past-life karma for targeted healing.
• Horizon (ascendant/rising and descendant) and meridian (IC & MC) splits to balance inner secrecy with outer purpose, mapping personal vs. relational evolution.
• Intuitive and technical guidance for reading birth charts.

About the author

Steven Forrest is a prominent evolutionary astrologer, writer, and lecturer, widely recognized as one of the founders of the school of Evolutionary Astrology. He is best known for his emphasis on free will and personal responsibility, arguing that we can change ourselves and create our own futures rather than being limited by a fixed destiny. He offers apprenticeship programs through the Forrest Center for Evolutionary Astrology.

Includes a helpful glossary and index at the end of the book to help you find what you're looking for.