Roots of Survival: Native American Storytelling and the Sacred by Abenaki master storyteller and writer Joseph Bruchac delivers a powerful message that examines the role of the traditional Aboriginal storyteller and traditional narratives and stories. Their relevance to modern Native American and First Nations people is expertly woven through essay, traditional legends, poems, and personal experience. Bruchac views traditional legends as a means for Aboriginal People to connect to their past and their spiritual present. In fact stories and storytelling are at the roots of Native Peoples' survival in North America. The book is divided into four key sections and each begins with a brief retelling of a traditional legend. Bruchac stresses the importance of context for storytelling as well as proper protocol and appropriation issues. With gentle persuasion drawn from his extensive study of stories, Bruchac shows readers that traditional stories are more than mere entertainments for children. Stories connect Aboriginal People to the land and this spiritual connection remains strong. Bruchac is careful to acknowledge his sources and has met and discussed storytelling with a wide range of Native American and First Nations storytellers. From his own Abenaki heritage and those of close friends among the Mohawk and other Iroquois Nations, Bruchac makes his key points with examples of traditional stories and oral traditions. He discusses themes of men's and women's roles, stereotypes, racism, cultural appropriation, humour, history, music, healing, medicine, and spirituality. Bruchac spends one section dealing with the cultural understanding of "horse stealing" among Plains people. He also critically examines the works of Carlos Castaneda and how his books have confused non-Native people about Aboriginal spirituality. Although some points are repeated because many of these revised essays previously appeared in journals and magazines, Bruchac uses the repetition to make his points for the general reader and educator. This book is highly recommended for anyone who is interested in traditional legends and stories. From college and university students to the teachers and general public this book contains messages for all cultures who want to restore peace, balance and beauty to their world.