I don’t usually read books like Decoding the Stars: A Modern Astrology Guide to Discover Your Life’s Purpose. But, I’m so glad I broke out of my comfort zone with this one. As we bring 2023 to a close, I’m bringing you a dose of “woo woo” that’ll knock your socks off.
How I discovered Decoding the Stars
I actually met author Allison Scott before I’d even heard of Decoding the Stars. We hit it off and soon started talking about ghosts and spirits because of my love of the supernatural. That conversation quickly transitioned into discussing all things “woo woo” like the cosmos and horoscopes and astrology, and how creativity plays into all of that.
Scott is an experienced astrologer at conjuringthemuse.com, and just a short while talking with her had me convinced I should read her book.
I admit, most of it was out of politeness instead of a real interest in astrology. But, my tune had completely changed after reading just a few chapters of Decoding the Stars.
What’s Decoding the Stars about?
The main goal of Decoding the Stars is to unlock the mysteries of “Who am I? Why am I here? What am I here to do?” through astrology. While this sounds terribly daunting, it’s not. At least, not when you’re in Scott’s capable hands.
Think of Decoding the Stars as “Astrology for Dummies.” Scott explains the more complicated aspects of astrology and horoscopes using wonderfully simple, easy-to-follow instructions and explanations. After pulling up my birth chart (the book tells you how to do this for free), I was quickly able to identify all my key signs – sun, moon, and house – and discover how they intertwine to make me, well, me.
You don’t have to read all of Decoding the Stars. Scott helps you jump around the book, section by section, based on what your astrological signs are. This way, you can find out what details only apply specifically to you: the person born at X time in Y location on Z date.
Once you “decode” yourself, you’ll want to ask everyone their birth dates, birth towns, and birth times so you can decode them, too.
What I loved about Decoding the Stars
I love so many things about Decoding the Stars, but what I loved most was how in tune with myself I felt after reading it. It helped me highlight what my strengths are, and why; what my weaknesses are, and why; and, what areas in my life I should be careful with, and why.
Learning about these things helped me gain a better understanding of myself as a person, in all aspects: as a partner, as a friend, as a writer, as an employee, as a traveler, as a dancer, an an artist. In all the ways that make me who I am.
There were certain things about my sign and my birth chart that resonated with me. I don’t think they could have resonated with anyone else so perfectly. I felt seen, I felt understood, and in many ways, I felt explained to myself.
Now, I’m fully aware that some (many?) of you are rolling your eyes at me and this book review. I don’t blame you because I was you. I was totally Ms Skeptic before reading Decoding the Stars. While I’m not full-blown into astrology now, let it be known that my previously rolling eyes have been opened to new possibilities.
How Decoding the Stars helped me
I read Decoding the Stars during a bout of severe depression, which was largely triggered by a chronic injury that left me unable to stand, walk, sit, or lie down without being in horrible pain. Not to be all “woo woo,” but I honestly feel this book came to me when I most needed it.
Decoding the Stars helped me come to terms with my depression, and to identify why some aspects of it were more crippling than others. It also helped me understand why I was so prone to certain bouts of depression, and why I gravitate toward certain people, jobs, creative endeavors, and inclinations that may not bring me the joy or relief that I need on a regular basis.
After I finished Decoding the Stars – which is now dog-eared, covered in scribbled notes, and flagged with different colored post its – I felt more aligned with myself, my purpose, and my goals that I had in a long time. Possibly ever.
Should you read Decoding the Stars?
If you have an open mind, if you’re looking to find more meaning in your life, or if you want to become more attuned with your own needs and wants, you should read Decoding the Stars.
The book’s Introduction (which you can read for free on Amazon using their “Look Inside” feature) will give you a good idea of what to expect from this book. If you’re intrigued, buy the book and keep reading.
I find myself returning to Decoding the Stars when I feel lost about what I’m supposed to do next, or when I’m wondering what creative or occupational path I’m supposed to take. Looking over my notes reminds me of who I am, what I’m doing here, and what my true purpose is. Re-reading this book helps me feel grounded, in control, and, well, happy. Who doesn’t want to be happy??
With 2024 right around the corner, I can’t think of a better time to explore the cosmos and what you can achieve in the new year. And, there’s no better guide to exploring this than Decoding the Stars.
What’s the book-inspired recipe for Decoding the Stars?
Be sure to check back in for the book-inspired recipe for Decoding the Stars: Pfeffernusse Sugar Cookies with Easy Marbled Icing.
