All peoples have their own stories of how the Earth was created, what separated the land from the seas, and how the many animals, fish, and other creatures came to have their particular characteristics. The native tribes of North America are no different: they too have stories about the “way things began.” A fascinating collection of tales that explain the origins of tornadoes, forest fires, butterflies, horses, Niagara Falls, why dogs are our best friends, and even a very funny story of why owls and rabbits look the way they do.

Birth of Niagara Falls (Algonquin) --Why butterflies cannot sing (Tohono O'odhan) -- How Eagle Man created the islands of the Pacific Coast (Bella Coola) -- How Snowmaker was taught a lesson (Micmac) -- How horses came into the world (Blackfoot) -- Why the dog is our best friend (Oneida) -- First tornado (Kiowa) -- Why rabbits and owls look the way they do (Mohawk) -- How the world will end (Cheyenne).