22 of 23 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
Forrest's work empowers by integrating head & heart., Jun 10 2010
By Dan K "Psychotherapist" - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: The Ascendant (Perfect Paperback)
I've been a professional astrologer for more than a dozen years, and Jodie Forrest's multi-faceted, multi-dimensional book on the ascendant is the best one I've ever read on the subject. In less than 240 pages, she eloquently covers ground that most books on the subject don't even attempt. She deftly weaves several different conceptions--the ascendant as style, as persona, as vehicle, and as filter (to name just a few)--that taken together create a rich and multi-faceted understanding of an aspect of astrology that often gets only one-dimensional treatment. But the true brilliance of Forrest's presentation is the way she places intellectual, conceptual approaches ("left brain," if you will) along side imagistic, metaphoric, and experiential ones ("right brain"). You'll find something here that speaks to you whether you like your astrology in the language of the heart or in the language of the head. Forrest covers one other aspect of this topic that rarely gets addressed: the connection between the ascendant (in all 12 signs) and the BODY. Finally, she suggests that the ascendant is not a static concept, but a part of us that can, and must, be developed over time. This is part of a refreshingly larger perspective from which Forrest speaks--that of "Evolutionary Astrology," which moves beyond the old passive, fatalistic assertions of conventional astrology, and instead calls on us to employ our consciousness, our imagination, and our creativity in RESPONDING to the questions and developmental tasks put forth by our charts!
11 of 12 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
Incredible, Ground Breaking Astrologic Insights on the Ascendant, Jun 13 2010
By Starr Perry "Artist and Avid Reader" - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: The Ascendant (Perfect Paperback)
The Ascendant by Jodie Forrest is a ground breaking book with a fresh and innovative viewpoint, unlike many of the earlier textbooks that has been written on this important astrological aspect.
As an avid reader and astrology fan, I have been reading about astrology since the 70's, including the exciting writing of the Forrest duo, Jodie and Steven. Jodie is one of the revered Forrest duo that has been writing and speaking for many years in the international astrological field.
Ms. Forrest gives background information and details on the ascendant that I have never considered before, as well as presenting the ascendant material in an original, unique manner that was fascinating.
I particularly enjoyed the cookbook section featuring Ms. Forrest's sharply intelligent perspective about the multi varied aspects of the Ascendant. There is new material here, which is presented in an intriguing, thought provoking format.
The Ascendant presents a bold and unique perspective - exactly what I would expect from well known and renowned Ms. Forrest.
It is exciting to see Ms. Forrest step out and continue solo writing in addition to the impeccable writing she continues with fellow astrologer and husband Steven Forrest.
For those interested in a bright new thought provoking perspective, this is a great read for beginners and experienced astrology enthusiasts alike.
11 of 12 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
A solid addition to astrological studies, Jun 10 2010
By Joe Max - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: The Ascendant (Perfect Paperback)
This book fills a niche that is so often overlooked in astrological books, the rising sign or ascendant. Books on general astrology cover the subject, of course, but while there are many books dealing with aspects, transits, houses and planets, the ascendant has always gotten short shrift, considering how important it is in one's astrological profile.
Forrest's writing is both informative and passionate, showing comfort and familiarity with the subject matter. Like her partner Stephen Forrest, her views are based on what they have called Evolutionary Astrology, which treats one's horoscope as a "map" of the possibilities of one's life. This approach may not sit well with those who have a more traditional, antiquated view of how astrology works and what it's good for. But if you don't mind having your assumptions intelligently challenged, this book is an excellent addition to the art.