The Four Corners of the Sky: Creation Stories and Cosmologies from Around the World

Rating:
Summary: I loved it
Review: I loved this book. I've seen so many different books on origin stories from around the world - there are dozens of them. This once is totally unique - it's about how different cultures picture the world. From the Maori, to the Egyptians, to the Desana Indians, the book explores the different visions of the universe that each culture has set forth in its myths and stories. There are even wonderful chapters on both medieval and modern science - even a chapter on Genesis. Most of the chapters are accompanied by myths and stories - all of them beautifully written. This book is perfect for a curious Middle School reader whose interest in the cosmos is just awakening - but it's great for all ages. It's one of my favorite books

Rating:
Summary: Disappointing and dull in spite of much promise
Review: Zeitlin fulfills his mission to compare the creation myths from many times and peoples, but he doesn't do it in an exciting or engaging manner. While each story builds on the next, the retellings themselves are a bit bland, and could have used a more drama. In spite of an impressive list of acknowledgements and sources (including Joseph Bruhac and E.C. Krupp, Edith Hamilton and Carl Sagan, and a nod to Joseph Campbell), Zeitlin is no storyteller.
The wide range of stories is impressive. Here the reader finds Genesis and the Talmud, theories of the first scientists and present day ones, and tales from India, Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Chapter layout is consistent. Each chapter begins with "Imagine ..." inviting the reader to slip into the culture and beliefs of the origins of the tale. A one sentence abstract further sets the stage, and Zeitlin puts each tale into context before going on to relate the story. Each myth is given thoughtful consideration as to how it fits in with the others.
The illustrations by Chris Raschka are a bit disappointing. He made an effort to research each period and culture to render appropriate patterns and drawings, but like the text, the illustrations fall flat. Rectangles in shades of gray cover and confuse instead of illuminating. The graphics, many of which incorporate traditional patterns, would have made lovely borders instead of single page pictures. Color would have made the illustrations less static.
Too scholarly for children, and of little appeal to YA's, it is unclear for whom this book is intended. Zeitlin presents big ideas, big words, and some adult themes, but usually it is either younger children or college students who explore such folk tales and myths. The author is to be commended for promoting openmindedness, and for his ability to portray many different belief systems with respect. Perhaps this will fit into curriculum frameworks, be a jumping off point for teachers, or be useful to storytellers.