The Solar Return Chart is a unique forecasting tool. It gives a broad overview of the year ahead as well as shading in the subtler nuances of experience which may not show up in other forms of predicative astrology.
Interpreting Solar and Lunar Returns was the first book to offer a psychological and growth orientation to forecasting, using Solar and Lunar Returns. In this reprint of the original version, the reader is taken through a step-by-step procedure of how to interpret Solar Returns, and clear explanations are given of calculation and timing methods. As well as an examination of Lunar Returns, information on the Returns for Mercury, Venus and Mars is also included, while detailed case studies demonstrate how a synthesis of the various techniques can be achieved.
An important book for the beginner and the advanced astrologer alike, Interpreting Solar and Lunar Returns presents a new approach to a traditional predictive technique and gives guidance on its use in humanistic astrology.
There is something to be said for the ‘tried and true’. Interpreting Solar and Lunar Returns was first published in 1990 and as evidenced by its republication in 2025, is an indication of its proven value.
As astrologers, we are often called upon to consider ‘Solar Returns’ for our clients. But, to what extent do we make full use of the technique? As we know, the Solar Return is a unique tool, providing a general overview of the year ahead while also ‘shading in the subtler nuances of experience which may not show up in other forms of predictive astrology.’ In this text Kirby and Stubbs provide guidance and insight to maximize the potential to be gleaned from its application.
The authors remind us that the Solar Return is an ‘important guide in the process of individuation.’ The book is well organized with clear, specific, and concise descriptions of placements and their significance, allowing the reader to focus on what is specific to them whilst considering how they might ‘encourage the healthy flow’ of their own solar energy during the year ahead. The Chapter entitled ‘Other Considerations in Interpreting Solar Returns’ includes a very practical and clearly delineated list of factors which are useful in synthesizing and interpreting the main themes for the coming year.
In addition to the Solar Return, one section is dedicated to Lunar Returns, followed by another that discusses the Returns of Mercury, Mars and Venus. The Chapter dedicated to the ‘Detailed Case Study’ brings everything together, providing a full picture of the scope and potential of what the Return charts provide.
For the experienced astrologer, this book offers a great reminder that sometimes we need look no further than ‘tried and true’ to assist us, and our clients, in navigating life’s journey. Those new to astrology, or to the idea of ‘Returns’, will find this book immensely helpful and an ongoing resource.
Recently, I had the pleasure of diving into this book on a practical level as I considered my own Solar Return and all that entails. In short, I wanted to ‘test’ what Kirby and Stubbs have laid out in parallel with my usual process. What I found were a few nuggets that I had not previously considered, and others which for some reason had fallen off my list of considerations. I loved the reminders, and the new insights were meaningful. Mostly, I came to fully appreciate that the experienced astrologers of the 20th Century still have a great deal to teach us.
