Includes bibliographical references and index.

"Native American starlore has instructed and entertained non-natives for generations. Yet until recently the sophistication of this extensive body of tradition and acute observation has not been appreciated. In this edited collection, seventeen folklorists and astronomers consider American starlore and its relation to specific observations of the sky in terms of its native uses and interpretations. Far from being another recount of sky mythology, this is a book that relates clear descriptions of astronomical phenomena and mechanics to interpretation and ritual usage from all areas of North America. Navajo, Seneca, Alabama, Pawnee, Lakota, Apache, and other peoples are represented. Rather than focus on pristine astronomies, the contributors to this volume consider ongoing traditions and contemporary usages. Earth and Sky provides a broad perspective on the exciting new field of ethnoastronomy, as well as fascinating insight into Native American wisdom"--Back cover

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