This reference was prepared by an anthropologist from the perspective of the natives themselves, that is, in the belief that shamans can do what they say they can do--an approach generally avoided by anthropologists. It is designed to complement and cross-reference the publishers's Encyclopedia of Native American Healing, but shifts the focus to powers other than those used for healing (plant usage is not covered in either volume). Surveying aspects of sacred ceremonies that have been observed in North America since the 16th century, entries encompass the names and results of various ceremonies, acclaimed shamans, techniques used by shamans, anthropological terminology, symbolic motifs, ceremonial plants and paraphernalia, and recurring structural themes. Much of the documentation for this information is by anthropologists, but accounts of priests, trappers, and explores who recorded their observations are also included. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.