Native American Myths and Legends

by Colin F. Taylor (Editor)

Explores the mythology of Native Americans in their struggles of solve the mysteries of humankind's origins and purpose on Earth, in an examination of Native American anthropology, rituals, ceremonies, holy places, and craftsmanship.

Genres: Mythology, Native American, Nonfiction, History

144 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1995

Reviews

[Elaine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Its shockingly hard to find an ebook with Native American myths in them, so I suppose most of the stars go to that this even exists.

But the stories told have no context or analysis to them and seem to have been translated haphazardly, which makes it difficult to understand what's going on. I hope someday this is rectified - it is bizarre that I can get gorgeous English translations of all sorts of mythology except that of aboriginal Americans.

[Mike Cohn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great overview of Native American legends, cultural practices, and artifacts. It breaks down the tribal cultures by the 8 main regions in North America. Replete with stunning photos of sacred sites, old photos, and artifacts with detailed descriptions. Very informative. I really liked it. An excellent starting point for those interested in Native American religion and philosophy.

[Kristina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had some wonderful pictures in it and was very informative in a topical way about Native American myths and legends. It provides some good insights to the relationship between geography and the development of myths and legends, but lacks insight to the sanctity of these stories.

If a person doesn't have some basic anthropology knowledge, it may be difficult to fully appreciate the value of what the book has to give. For the layman, it could be taken as fairy tales meant for entertainment. There are alot of descriptors for the photography and not enough space to really delve into the spiritual context of these myths and legends and how they functioned in much the same way religious belief systems do today for any people.

Perhaps it just bothers me when any religious or spiritual material is referred to as "bible stories" when it is taken as fact and history for the people that have built their lives around it.

[Gary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I actually wrote a chapter of this book. I think it was a rip-off coffee table book that was remaindered before it was published. Regardless, I did the chapter on the Cherokees. It is not among my proudest moments.

[Theresa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Native American Myths and Legends
Taylor, Colin F.
a great history of stories that are inspiring and dramatic in their attempt to show human nature. museum quality photography and graphics. The book is heavy and detailed of the tribes, peoples and legends.