It's all in the stars

When I was at the RNA conference earlier this year, several people recommended the use of an astrology book as a helpful aid to 'knowing your character'. So, when I was in a book store recently, I actually remembered to seek out such a book and consider its virtues for myself. Naturally, I couldn't remember the title of the book nor the author but happened upon one called 'Love Stars' by Claire Petulengro - 'Astrologer for Express and OK!'. Within minutes of picking the book up, I was hooked - it gives not only the general characteristics of each star sign but also which star sign is suited to which, what sort of job they may hold, what sort of mother-in-law they may make, what sort of friend they are and what their sexual needs might be! In other words, everything you need to know about your character and what makes him or her tick. Equally naturally, the copy I held in my hands was the only one on the shelf and well-thumbed. 'Go and ask them if they have a better copy in stock,' advised my husband. Off I trotted and obediently asked the question. 'No,' the assistant replied, 'I'm afriad we don't. We only have that one. I can give you ten per cent off that copy if you like, or order you a new one.' As the book was only meant for me and as I was in Cheltenham at the time (about 150 miles south of home), I decided I didn't mind if the book was slightly dog-eared. It was only going to go further in the same direction once I got it home after all (I'm not one to preserve my books, especially reference books, they are there to be used, not to look pretty). My husband then said I was the only person he knew who would haggle over the price of a book in Waterstones. I pointed out to him that I was not haggling, merely following his suggestion, to which he responded with a boyish grin and a waggle of his eyebrows in a 'I know, you're so easy to lead astray', kind of way.

Naturally (word of the day in case you hadn't noticed) once home, I just had to read all about me - an Aries. And what did it say? It said I could be led into something, and that I could be tight with money - though did add 'but there is usually a good reason for it'. How right you are Ms Petulengro - what better reason than getting ten per cent off a book?