Focusing on both the ancient (Inca) and living (Yanomami) cultures of South America, this volume captures the South American mythmakers fascination with shape shifting and magic. It includes the tale of the first Inca, who built the city of Cuzco on the spot where his staff disappeared into the ground, and the sky people, who discovered the rain forest teeming with animals. Readers will learn about the many cultures and mythologies of South America and gain a better understanding of how the past has shaped the present.

Kingdoms of gold -- Realm of the condor -- Empire of the sun -- After the conquest -- The forest people -- The Amerindian legacy.