Myths and Legends: From Cherokee Dances to Voodoo Trances

Interest in mythology has grown over the years and we now realize that many of the ancient anecdotes in circulation, either through verbal storytelling, ancient script or paintings, have in fact assisted the human race in understanding the complex world we live in, even if they are not always factually correct or true. They have helped us mold societies and given people reason to live; they are the blocks that when linked together can help us find the answers we, as a human race, have been searching for.

Myths and Legends is a hardcover volume with four-color photographs and decoration throughout, and will make an excellent addition to the library of any reader who cherishes stories from the past and viewpoints of differing cultures. The book groups the world's myths into four geographical regions in order to provide an easy-to-follow structure. Myths from neighboring countries often share distinct similarities, but it should be noted that many of the cultures featured here were separated through vasts periods of time. Many of the cultures that produced these works have themselves long since vanished but, through the myths and legends presented here in this collection, the gods and demons that sprang from their imaginations—and maybe even their realities—live on.

John Pemberton is a freelance writer who specializes in ancient and modern folklore. He grew up in Ireland where he became fascinated by Celtic myths and legends. He has since traveled widely, particularly in Central and South America, studying the cultural history of the Aztecs and Incas at the University of Lima in Peru, where he lived for some time. He currently resides in Tintagel, North Cornwall close to the legendary castle of King Arthur.