Hopi Animal Stories. - book review

Compiled and edited by Ekkehart Malotki; introduction by Barre Toelken. Lincoln and London: University of Nebraska Press, 2001. xxxi + 261 pp. Illus. $16.95 (pbk). ISBN 0-8032-8271-0

The thirty tales in this collection were collected by Professor Malotki from four Hopi informants, mostly in the early 1980s; being deeply concerned at the rapid erosion of their traditional culture, they gladly let him tape and publish their tales. All are concerned with the interaction of humans and animals, or of animals among themselves, and most have moral or cautionary implications; some, but by no means all, involve the famous figure of Coyote. The original hardback edition in 1998 gave both Hopi texts and English translations, but here only the latter are given; they have a pleasing directness and simplicity. A very useful appendix explains unfamiliar terms, and also the particular importance that certain plants, animals or activities possess in Hopi culture. Professor Toelken's introduction discusses broader topics essential to the proper appreciation of these tales--their underlying worldview and communal values, for example, or their storytelling techniques and humour. The book as a whole will both teach and entertain new readers, while playing a valuable part in preserving these traditions from oblivion.

Jacqueline Simpson, Folklore Society

COPYRIGHT 2003 Folklore Society
COPYRIGHT 2003 Gale Group