Description

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"A colorful, beautiful book which teaches us about ourselves as much as about one of North America's native peoples."—Vancouver Sun

Rarely accessible to the general public, Ojibway mythology is as rich in meaning, as broad, as deep, and as innately appealing as the mythologies of Greece, Rome, and other Western civilizations. In Ojibway Heritage Basil Johnston introduces his people's ceremonies, rituals, songs, dances, prayers, arid legends. Conveying the sense of wonder and mystery at the heart of the Ojibway experience, Johnston describes the creation of the universe, followed by that of plants and animals and human beings, and the paths taken by the latter. These stories are to be read, enjoyed, and freely interpreted. Their authorship is perhaps most properly attributed to the tribal storytellers who have carried on the oral tradition that Johnston records and preserves in this book. 

About the Author

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Basil Johnston (1929–2015) was a linguist and lecturer in the Department of Ethnology at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto. His other works include Ojibway Ceremonies, also a Bison Book.

Praise For…

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"A colorful, beautiful book which teaches us about ourselves as much as about one of North America's native peoples."—Vancouver Sun

"This compilation of the basic beliefs, ideals, values, and ceremonies of a large North American native group is a beautiful and sacred document. The wisdom of many of these stories may be understood by humans of all ages. These insightful views of life and its meanings should be read and re-read by those seeking a better understanding of American Indians and themselves."—Library Journal