The Telling of the World

The anthology contains legends and stories from many Native American tribes and nations - Mohawk, Sioux, Cree, Nez Perce, Yakima, Cherokee, Zuni, to name but a few - collected from both traditional and contemporary sources. These inspirational tales follow the path of life - from creation and birth, through adolescence, family relationships, love and marriage, death and renewal. Words recounted by respected storytellers reveal a unique approach to the world, as well as a desire to pass along the knowledge necessary to lead a good life. Taken as a whole, the stories reveal an innate power to entertain, to instruct, to bind people together into a healing community, and to provide an identity and a unifying vision. These stories are richly illustrated with art - paintings, sculpture, drawings - created by modern Native American artists, and historically significant artifacts. Their work showcases the enduring spirit of Native American peoples who have found ways to survive and to continue telling their stories, revealing who they are for future generations. Among the artists included are Jaune Quick-To-See-Smith, George Longfish, Emmi Whitehorse, and Fred Kabotie.