As the moon casts its shadow, plunging the world into a momentary dusk, there’s nothing quite like settling down with a book that matches the mood of a total solar eclipse. Whether you’re an astronomy aficionado, a lover of metaphor-rich narratives, or in search of a laugh under the darkened sky, here’s a curated list of books to read during the next total eclipse. This eclectic mix of informative, literary, and humorous reads promises to enhance your celestial experience.

1. For the Stargazer: “Totality: The Great American Eclipses of 2017 and 2024” by Mark Littmann and Fred Espenak

Begin your eclipse journey with “Totality,” a guide that combines the scientific and the practical. Littmann and Espenak, experts in their field, offer a comprehensive look at the phenomena of total solar eclipses. With detailed maps, photography, and tips on the best viewing spots for the 2024 eclipse, this book is an essential companion for anyone planning to witness this awe-inspiring event.

2. For the Literary Soul: “Nightfall” by Isaac Asimov and Robert Silverberg

Imagine a world where the sun sets only once every 2,049 years, and the idea of night is a mere myth. Asimov and Silverberg’s “Nightfall” plunges readers into a civilization on the brink of its first-ever eclipse, exploring themes of darkness, fear, and the unknown. This science fiction classic is a perfect metaphorical pairing for the eerie calm of an eclipse.

3. For the Humorist: “This Book Is Full of Spiders: Seriously, Dude, Don’t Touch It” by David Wong

While not directly related to eclipses, David Wong’s outrageously funny and terrifying sequel to “John Dies at the End” captures the chaos and unpredictability of the universe in a way that eclipse enthusiasts can appreciate. As you wait for the moon’s shadow to pass, enjoy a dose of laughter mixed with existential dread, perfect for the surreal setting an eclipse offers.

4. For the Curious Mind: “American Eclipse: A Nation’s Epic Race to Catch the Shadow of the Moon and Win the Glory of the World” by David Baron

Dive into the fascinating history of eclipse chasers with David Baron’s “American Eclipse.” This narrative non-fiction book recounts the story of three pioneering scientists who sought to use the 1878 total solar eclipse to advance American science. It’s a captivating tale of ambition, discovery, and the timeless human quest to understand the cosmos.

5. For the Seeker of Shadows: “Shadow and Bone” by Leigh Bardugo

Leigh Bardugo’s fantasy novel isn’t about eclipses, but its exploration of light, darkness, and the shadows that lie between makes it a fitting read. As the world around you darkens, immerse yourself in the Grishaverse, where a young orphan discovers a power that could save her war-torn world from a swath of darkness. It’s a thrilling adventure that mirrors the transition from light to dark and back again.

6. For the Quirky: “We Have No Idea: A Guide to the Unknown Universe” by Jorge Cham and Daniel Whiteson

End your eclipse reading with a humorous yet informative exploration of all that science has yet to uncover. Cham and Whiteson tackle the biggest mysteries of the universe in a way that’s accessible, engaging, and downright funny. It’s a reminder that, much like during an eclipse, there’s so much beauty in the unknown.

As you prepare for the next total solar eclipse, let these books accompany you through the darkness and back into the light. Each read, in its own way, captures the wonder, mystery, and humor of the universe, making your eclipse experience all the more memorable.