For those of us who have not gone GOTO, this series of books in about the best thing to have with you when observing. Move focused information makes them easier to use than a conventional sky atles - though you should have one of those, too. The best thing for newbies trying to learn the sky. I keep letting people borrow them at star parties. And they are built to handle much use and abuse, as well a dirt and dew. Highly recommended!