Rating: 
Summary: Amazing
Review: This book has been a staple for me for over 10 years. I can't say enough good things about the detail, content and information in this book. Whether you use it for spiritual experiences, to seek advice or just use it for art interpretation you will be happy with this in your library.
My only criticism is that I would have even more info on the animals themselves as recognized by the Native Indian perspective. I'm sure chapters on each animal could be written if this approach was taken, but a bit more of the spirituality from this culture would enrich the book even more.
This book opened a whole world to me that I look forward to exploring over my entire lifetime.
Rating: 
Summary: If Helpful Great, but Native American?
Review: While all of the previous reviews are positive, none seem to be from people who have authentic training and qualifications to rate the accuracy of the contents.
It is true that the book is frequently cited--but in every instance I have found--the citations have been by non-Natives or non-tribal Natives who have not had recourse to authentic tribal teachers.
The meanings of animals as totems vary among tribal groups, so it can be expected that a book will reflect the training of the author. This book does not seem to match authentic teachings from any well-respected tribal educators.
According to all offical biographies I have been able to locate, Mr. Andrews is not Native American, and has not trained with one or more authentic shamen. He is an untrained lay person, who has made a career out of writing books and speaking about a wide variety of new age subjects in which his training is no broader than that of many of his readers/listeners.
Any book may be helpful and Mr. Andrews may have insights that help you. If so, great. But, please do not confuse this book with authentic Native American teachings.
Rating:
Summary: Couldn't put it down
Review: If you are into animals and nature, or want to learn more about them on a spiritual level, this is the book for you. I couldn't put it down from the moment I began reading it. And it's not a small book by any means!
You really begin to look for the animals around you more closely and attentively. Especially when going hiking or camping, you become aware and note down what animals you saw and under what circumstances, and then look it up later in the book. It is surprisingly accurate, and fun on top of it!
Rating:
Summary: Great "how to" book on animal guides
Review: Loved this book. It covers so many animals, you'll be hard pressed not to find your familiar, guide, etc. described in these pages. The book gives you the quick reference in it's "keynote" which is in bold at the top of each animal description. For example, the bear says "Keynote: Awakening the power of the unconscious", and then proceeds to give a page or so description of each of the animals symbolism and power points as well as what the animal may be trying to tell you about yourself. There is of course a section on finding your familiar (animal guide) as well. I have performed this "ritual" slightly tweeked to my own style, and it worked incredibly well for me. My familiar at that time was a Blue Jay and believe me, when I say this is to find your familiar, there is no mistaking it when this mystery animal comes to call. That Blue Jay, on several occasions flew right down in front of me and chirped it's head off a mere five feet away - maybe that far - to get my attention. FYI, my use of the word "ritual" is for lack of a better word. This is not a complicated endevor. Andrews style is straight forward and easy to use "magick". I strongly recommend this book for anyone wanting to connect with animal guides or is curious about some animal who seems to be showing up in their lives in an unusual manner - maybe they are trying to tell you something!
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