"Myths And Legends Of The Great Plains (version 2)" by Katharine Berry Judson is a comprehensive collection of folklore from the Native American tribes of the Great Plains. Judson provides readers with a rich tapestry of myths, legends, and oral traditions that paint a vivid picture of the spiritual beliefs and cultural practices of these indigenous peoples.

The book is well-organized, with each chapter dedicated to a different tribe or group, allowing readers to easily explore the diverse range of stories and beliefs across the region. Judson's writing is clear and engaging, making these ancient tales accessible to modern audiences without losing any of their original beauty and significance.

One of the standout features of this book is the inclusion of detailed notes and explanations that provide important context and background information for each story. This not only enhances the reader's understanding of the myths and legends but also highlights the connections between different tribes and their shared cultural heritage.

Overall, "Myths And Legends Of The Great Plains (version 2)" is a must-read for anyone interested in Native American folklore or looking to explore the rich storytelling traditions of the Great Plains. Judson's thoughtful curation and insightful commentary make this book a valuable resource for scholars, students, and general readers alike.

Book Description:
Here, amidst the vast sweep of the plains which stretch away to the horizon on every side, boundless, limitless, endless, lived the plains Indians. Standing in the midst of this vast green plain on a soft May morning, after the Thunder Gods have passed, when the sun is shining in the soft blue above, and the sweet, rain-swept air is blown about by the Four Winds which are always near to man, day and night,—standing far out on the plains with no hint of the white man or his work—one sees the earth somewhat as the Indian saw it and wonders not at his reverence for the Mysterious One who dwelt overhead, beyond the blue stone arch, and for the lesser powers which came to him over the four paths guarded by the Four Winds….

The authorities used in this compilation are those found in the annual reports of the Bureau of American Ethnology and the Publications of the United States Geographical and Geological Survey: contributions to North American Ethnology…. No claim whatever is made for original work. Indeed, original work of any kind in a compilation such as this would impair the authenticity of the myths, and therefore destroy the value of this work. Nor has any effort been made towards “style.” The only style worth having in telling an Indian legend is that of the Indian himself.

These stories are from the following tribes: Osage, Cherokee, Lenni-Lenapi , Omaha, Teton, Comanche, Assiniboin, Sioux, Pawnee, Dakota, Kiowa, Mandan Arikara, Ponca, Yankton Arapahoe, and Kansa. Summary by Author's Preface and david wales.