In 25 myths, life begins after some being either directs others to get or make soil, or forms the earth from nothing, or opens a box, or separates earth, sky and waters; the methods of creation are only limited by the number of stories in the book. The tales are varied, representing many world cultures and traditions; somelike the story of Pandorawill be known to readers, although they may not have identified it previously as a creation myth. The tellings, too, are varied, sometimes somber and other times lilting. In her introduction, Hamilton calls the phrase ``In the beginning . . . '' a ``classic opening, although not the only opening,'' but many of the tales begin this way, which suggests a tacit endorsement of the phrase. Additionally, she asserts that limitations of space ``do not allow for all of the important world myths to be presented here. Also, not all myths are easily rendered on a level of understanding for many readers.'' Simply by addressing such limitations, Hamilton embraces the only problem with the workthat it does not encompass every culture or even every world region. Moser's watercolors gleam like jewels amid the setting of the text. His people and creatures gaze out at readers, as if to challenge their imaginations to comprehend the chaos before creation. All ages. (Sept.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved

Gr. 6-9. Hamilton has gathered 25 creation myths from various cultures and retold them in language true to the original. Images from the tales are captured in Moser's 42 full-page illustrations, tantalizing oil paintings that are rich with somber colors and striking compositions. Included in the collection are the familiar stories (biblical creation stories, Greek and Roman myths), and some that are not so familiar (tales from the Australian aborigines, various African and native American tribes, as well as from countries like Russia, China, and Iceland). At the end of each tale, Hamilton provides a brief commentary on the story's origin and originators. These source notes, along with the author's preface and afterword, are addressed to adults and will be helpful to teachers and librarians preparing to introduce the topic. Because of its myriad uses, a must for mythology shelves. Bibliography appended. IC.

A leading author and illustrator collaborate in a fine compilation of creation myths--a basic component of any folklore collection. Each of the 25 stories is told in spare, dignified language appropriate to its source and is followed by a brief discussion of its origin and type. While many cultures are included, there is more emphasis on presenting a variety of mythological figures and interpretations than on equal representation. Five stories come from the Americas, from Eskimo to Mayan; four from the Pacific, including Australia; five from Africa. There are a few stories from Europe and Asia, five from the ancient Mediterranean world (including three of the Greek myths), and the concluding piece is from Genesis, shining as the brightest in this bright firmament. Moser's dark, powerful portraits of the Creators are dramatically framed in stark white. A rich mix of fascinating stories, making an excellent introduction to myths and their cross-cultural connections. Memorable bookmaking. List of sources. Copyright ©Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

Gr 6 Up Twenty-five creation myths from such diverse cultures as China, Tahiti, Micronesia, and Australia. Illustrated with 42 dramatic , full-color paintings, this is a handsome representative collection. Hamilton's introduction briefly defines creation myths and places them within the formal cultural structure that gives them authority. Her commitment to stay true to the simplicity of style of many creation myths results in some brilliant retellings, complete with the clarity of vision and fluidity of language synonymous with her work. While most of these retold myths are highly successful, others lack the precision of the ``perfect word'' associated with Hamilton. (One example is the jarring use of the modern word ``aide,'' as in aides to a god in a Zambian creation myth.) Although the placement of the explanatory notes at the end of each myth is less effective than if they were placed at the beginning, the book is handsomely designed. Each myth opens with a striking full-page painting, each of which is truly evocative and powerful in design and content. Text and illustrations together result in a strong, effective piece of work. Janice M. Del Negro, Chicago Public Lib . (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.