From School Library Journal
Grade 7 Up-These attractive volumes are readable and well organized. They have comprehensive introductions and conclude with current practices and a look to the future. Zoroastrianism discusses the religion's history, scripture, philosophy, ethics, and rituals. African Religion covers the oral tradition, beliefs about God and the spirit world, rites, sacred places, and mystical forces. Both books have glossaries (but no pronunciation guides), minimal chapter notes, and lists for further reading. Unfortunately, they also have internal inconsistencies and are occasionally confusing. The abbreviations B.C.E. and C.E. are used with no explanation of their meaning. Both titles suffer from inadequate maps. And, while they cover the "big picture" well, there is little sense of how the religions are practiced on a daily basis. However, since little is available for teens on Zoroastrianism and traditional African religions, these may be useful purchases where world religions are of interest.
Ann W. Moore, Schenectady County Public Library, NY
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Ann W. Moore, Schenectady County Public Library, NY
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Booklist
Lugira takes on a little discussed topic in this volume in the World Religions series. Africa is made up of thousands of ethnic groups, each with its own religious traditions, which may be the reason the topic is so rarely explored. Lugira, however, finds common ground in those religions, including the belief in a Supreme Being and in the lesser gods that assist. Traditions passed on through oral recitations and the importance of rites and rituals, such as animal sacrifice, are also discussed. Topics such as witchcraft and the role it plays in African religion, the future of "organized" religion in Africa, and the influence of other religions on African religions are touched on as well. There are many interesting black-and-white photos here, but some are not well reproduced. Students doing reports on religions should find this a useful source. Extensive glossary. Ilene Cooper
