"The stories in this unusual collection come from the twelve tribes of Indians that, in historic times, have lived in the present states of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. They include myths, legends, personal narratives, and historical traditions preserved by highly respected storytellers, and reveal much about the lives and beliefs of the early Indians. The sections of the book are arranged to represent Indians of six linguistic groups...Although attention is focused on Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, the factual introductions to the various sections cover a larger area -- from the Cascade Range of western Washington and Oregon almost to the Mississippi River. Because the Sioux frequently came into Montana and Wyoming to make war and to hunt buffalo, two of their landscape legends are included...The simplicity of style characterizing the narration is truly reflective of their origins. Mythology is related to history in this volume..."--Book jacket.

"Dreams and visions, spirit helpers and supernatural experiences, sacred bundles and religious ceremonies, events in history -- these and other aspects of the lives of the Plateau Indian and of the Plains Indians are revealed in the stories they once told..."--p. 19.