Deerdancer: 2the Shapeshifter Archetype in Story & in Trance

In her third book, Jamal (Volcanic Visions and Shape Shifters) explores 12 shapeshifting entities in history and myth and invites the reader to expand his or her own self-awareness and spirituality. Throughout history, says Jamal, shamanic men and women have practiced shape-shifting, the powerful process of taking on the physical and psychological aspects of an animal to access its strength and perceptions, to achieve wisdom and spiritual power, to heal, to prophesy, to communicate with the divine. Each chapter covers a different animal ally--including the bear, wolf, cat, serpent--and begins by tracing the ally's role in world cultures throughout history. Then Jamal lyrically recounts shape-shifting stories that have pervaded folklore, legend and superstition all around the world from the mysterious seal shifter of Celtic myth to the mercurial dragon of classical Chinese culture. Every chapter ends with a poetic visualization of the animal--that goes along with the final chapter, a how-to-guide for readers to find and work with their animal allies. Anyone interested in shamanism, mythology or just plain self-awareness will enjoy Jamal's thorough exploration of shape-shifting. She allows for the appreciation of the power within oneself and other living creatures and ably demonstrates how the two may be integrated for deeper insight. (Nov.)