Thirty Indian legends

Ten brothers steal a belt of wampum from a sleeping giant bear, then race to escape its pursuit. Their youngest brother trusts the dreams that foretold the expedition, while Mudjekeewis interrupts their progress with displays of strength. This opening tale introduces a world in which dreams, animals and powerful spirits shape human fortunes. Margaret Bemister brings together thirty stories associated with the folklore of North America, with Canada named in the collection's subject heading.

The contents include water spirits, enchanted moccasins, the origins of corn and the adventures of Wesakchak. In another excerpt, a chief's daughter cares for an extraordinary dog, and a white feather has the power to restore speech. Bemister's preface credits named contributors and distinguishes a closing battle account from the legends. Readers interested in traditional storytelling will find repeated encounters with supernatural helpers, danger and unexpected changes of form.