Myths allow us to experience and find a meaning for life through different cultures. Myths resonate within us, bringing an experience of existing within a dissimilar reality. The Native American storytellers who shared their myths with the author were taught by their Elders who lived in a place and culture altered from that of today. These myths were told and recorded by the author with the understanding they would not be lost. Some of these myths were found to be almost lost, some to be very old, almost forgotten. The Salt Woman stories are difficult to find. They are very old and come from several cultures and diverse tellers. Other myths are from New Mexican Pueblos, Southeastern Creek, Lakota, Cheyenne, Hopi and Guiana cultures.

With the aid of more than 40 myths from the oral traditions of 30 native American tribes, ranging from the Eskimos to the Indians of Guiana, Pijoan invites readers to take a close look at the common spirit that binds together all forms of life.The native American heroes and heroines in these myths, imbued with the strength of this common spirit, possess the power to transform themselves into snakes, birds, bears, wolves, and occasionally as in the Sikyatki tale, Water Jar Boy into everyday objects.

Myths tell us much about a people. And all cultures have creation myths. The myths collected by the author in this book tell us about the rich and varied lives and imagination of the first Americans. They vary from simple to complex and all attempt to answer the question of human origin. Native Americans are of profound beginnings. Each Tribe, Group or Pueblo hold their beginning to be truths, unique from one another. The beliefs in this book are only a sampling of the many that still exist today. “In collecting these tales,” the author says, “no tape recorder was used and no notes were taken during the telling. Immediately after the session copious notes were taken and later expanded into a recreation of the myth. Subjects were located through word of mouth and after a short time people started coming forward and volunteering their stories. The people hold the stories. May they continue to tell and share with their families, communities, and the outsiders. We have much to learn from Creation, from each other, and from the holders of the stories.” TERESA PIJOAN was raised on the San Juan Pueblo Indian Reservation in New Mexico and later her family moved to the Nambe Indian Reservation. She is a national lecturer, storyteller, research writer, college professor, and teacher. She has lectured throughout Central Europe, Mexico, and the United States. Her other books from Sunstone Press are “Healers on the Mountain,” “Pueblo Indian Wisdom,” “Ways of Indian Magic,” and “Dead Kachina Man.”

A collection of stories passed down orally for generations, reflecting the customs and traditional beliefs of the Pueblo people.

Iroquois myths and legends were an important way for customs, beliefs, and histories to be passed down orally through the generations. These myths often explain natural events. In this creation myth, the creation of Earth by Sky Woman and Big Turtle is told. The Iroquois nature myth is retold in this brilliantly illustrated Native American Myth. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Short Tales is an imprint of Magic Wagon, a division of ABDO.

A unique characteristic of Native American medicine is the belief that each patient holds a different spirit, and that the healing can only work when it affects the individual spirit. Mythology is essential to this healing process. The belief stories within these pages reflect a culture that holds both poignant and alarming lessons. Readers of this book will discover the intriguing past and knowledge of Native American history and beliefs which are more enlightening than they may have previously realized. TERESA PIJOAN was raised as a young child on San Juan Pueblo Reservation in New Mexico by her Barcelona born father and her New York born mother. When Teresa was twelve years old, her family moved to Nambe Indian Reservation. She also spent several summers with her adopted aunt at Hopi. As a University of New Mexico at Valencia history professor, Teresa Pijoan, PhD, is an internationally acclaimed author, storyteller, and lecturer. She has won many awards for her teaching and her publications. Her other books from Sunstone Press are “American Indian Creation Myths,” “Pueblo Indian Wisdom,” “Ways of Indian Magic,” and “Dead Kachina Man.”

Lewis Spence's 'The Myths of the North American Indians' is a comprehensive study of the rich mythology of indigenous peoples of North America. Spence delves into various tribes' myths, legends, and spiritual beliefs, providing valuable insights into the cultural and historical significance of these stories. Written in a scholarly yet accessible style, the book offers a deep exploration of the literary context of Native American mythology and its impact on modern literature and popular culture. This work is essential for anyone interested in Native American folklore and traditional beliefs. Lewis Spence, a renowned Scottish historian and folklorist, was known for his expertise in mythology and ancient civilizations. His background in anthropology and archaeology enabled him to provide a well-rounded analysis of indigenous myths, shedding light on their significance and relevance in today's world. Spence's dedication to preserving and sharing these stories showcases his commitment to cultural preservation and understanding. 'The Myths of the North American Indians' is a must-read for those seeking a comprehensive and enlightening exploration of Native American folklore.