Mesoamerican Mythology: A Guide to the Gods, Heroes, Rituals, and Beliefs of Mexico and Central America
After a somewhat disconcerting preface in which mother-and-son authors Read (comparative religion, DePaul Univ.) and Gonzalez refer to each other and themselves in both the first and third persons, the two proceed to deliver an impressive and scholarly but still student-friendly work on the mythology of Mexico and Central America.  They begin with an 78-page introduction defining the nature of the myth, the Mesoamericans as a people, and the cultural worldview underlying their myths.  The next section deals with historical and mythological time lines, leading to a chapter that details deities, themes, and concepts.  A time period and cultural group is defined for each entry, which is followed by suggested readings and See Also references where appropriate.  The final sections include an annotated biography and an extensive reference list as well as a glossary.  Pronunciation guides are given throughout.  A user-friendly reference on a complex subject, the Handbook is recommended for all secondary, public, and academic libraries.Katherine Kaigler-Koenig, Ellis Sch., Pittsburgh, PA.Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to theHardcoveredition.