He Atua, He Tangata

In this comprehensive collection, now in its third edition, esteemed editor Ross Calman revises the core stories of gods (atua) and people (tangata) and the many other beings that sit on the continuum between the two.

Divided into themes, this elegantly produced volume starts with traditions of the creation of the universe, and the separation of Rangi and Papa, then reviews the pantheon of atua (gods), the overworlds and underworlds. Next are the demigods and supernatural peoples, then legends of earth, ocean and sky, tohunga and makutu, and finally legends of love and endurance.

He Atua, He Tangata presents different versions for stories, with sources identified where possible. Calman has modernised the language to give stories a contemporary feel, incorporating updates to the Māori, making this timeless work perfect for twenty-first century readers.