This is an authoritative guide to the fascinating myths and legends of the indigenous peoples of ancient America. Over 200 A-to-Z entries describe the complex and diverse philosophies and beliefs of Native North American cultures, revealing their continued importance in the contemporary world. It is richly illustrated with over 150 colour images depicting spirits and shamans, sacred sites, masks and carvings, and the central characters of the mythological stories. Superb pictorial feature spreads illustrate key themes and symbols at the heart of these diverse cultures, including The Living Sky, Spirits of the Earth, Transformation, and Death & Afterlife. This book includes tales from the frozen north, the Rocky Mountains, the great sweeping grasslands and forests, and the dry, arid desert regions. More than 200 entries describe the beliefs and legends of over 90 tribal peoples, including the Inuits, Cree, Hopi, Blackfoot, Crow, Cherokee and Apache. This instantly accessible A-to-Z guide is illustrated throughout with over 150 colour images depicting spirits and shamans, sacred sites, masks and carvings and the central characters of the mythological stories. Written for readers of all ages, this encyclopedia is an authoritative source of information on the myths and legends of the indigenous inhabitants of the North American continent that will bring to life their beliefs, their amazing folklore and the incredibly rich spirit world that inspires and fascinates us to the present day.