Schuman. Maya and Aztec Mythology Rocks!

Schuman, Michael  Maya and Aztec Mythology Rocks!     

 Enslow      2011  112p  31.93 978-0-7660-3899-8 

 ms/hs E-BNS       

    Myths of the Mayan and Aztec peoples focusing mostly on creation myths.  Each is introduced,  the story given, study questions presented and an expert commentary provided on the myth.  Middle into high school.    After an introductory review of the history of the Mayan and Aztec  peoples, eight myths are presented.  The format is excellent to produce understanding.  There is an introductory section for each myth followed by the actual myth rendered in modern English.  The following pages present questions and their answers to give readers the chance to check their understanding.  Each myth chapter concludes with expert commentary from a scholar  or specialist on that mythology.  This arrangement gives the reader a very thorough understanding of these myths from both their own viewpoint but also the thinking of experts who draw parallels with other religions.
  The deceptively simple pen and ink drawings which introduce each myth do provide extra background information towards understanding the myth.  Many of the drawings require a second or third look to see all the detail included.
  This title would be a great companion to the study of Mayan and Aztec history in middle school or high school grades.  It would be valuable either as a text for all students or supplemental reading for interested students. Mythology Rocks! (Enslow)    The series consists of six titles covering mythology of the world.  Greek mythology is split into two volumes of Gods and Goddesses and Heroes.  A great complement to the curriculum.   Mythology of the Americas     Joan Theal