American Indian Mythology

Grade 5-7-Chinese Mythology provides useful historical background to mythical and historical dynasties. Ten stories about creation, prehistory, and various legends include popular and lesser-known tales. Legends taken from various philosophies are presented. Wolfson's simple yet occasionally bland retelling of a combination of nine familiar and rare tales would be useful in an instructional setting. Each tale is preceded by an introduction and followed by academic questions with answers and expert commentary. Tales from the Tsimshians, Salish, Maidu, Cherokees, Blackfeet, Cheyennes, Hopi, Anishinabes, and Micmacs result in a wide span of coverage. Bock's black-and-white illustrations provide no enhancement to the tales. Both books are compact and strictly organized, allowing students to cover broad ground quickly. Unfortunately, they lack textual zest and illustrative flair, making their use purely an intellectual exercise rather than a memorable delight.
Nancy Call, Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Aptos, CA
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