Mayas

Children's Literature - Barbara Youngblood

This book has a wealth of information about the Mayan people of Central America. It would be a great introduction to their culture in a classroom, home-school setting, or perhaps that family trip to the Yucatan peninsula in Mexico. The Mayan understanding of astronomy and the natural cycles of the earth has left a lasting impression. There were many facets to their lives that still touch us in our modern world. Their hierarchical society created lasting monuments to their lifestyle that we can only wonder about today. We are sometimes in awe of the bloodthirsty rituals they practiced. A chapter on a ball game they played will give the reader food for thought if modern sports had accepted their customs—the losers of the game were killed. The book uses illustrations, photos, and maps to help explain their religion, social classes, games and everyday life. Corn originated in Mayan territory, along with tomatoes, cacao beans, and avocados. Our diet would be very different without that dietary contribution. The book has an index and is divided into chapters.