Looking to the vast human history of water worship, a crucial study of our broken relationship with all things aquatic - and how we might mend it.
Early human relationships with water were expressed through beliefs in serpentine aquatic deities: rainbow-coloured, feathered or horned serpents, giant anacondas and dragons. Representing the powers of water, these beings were bringers of life and sustenance, world creators, ancestors, guardian spirits and law makers. Worshipped and appeased, they embodied people's respect for water and its vital role in sustaining all living things.
Yet today, though we still recognise that 'water is life', fresh- and saltwater ecosystems have been critically compromised by human activities. This major study of water beings, and what has happened to them in different cultural and historical contexts, demonstrates how and why some - but not all - societies have moved from worshipping water to wreaking havoc upon it, and asks what we can do to turn the tide.
'A far-ranging and gorgeously illustrated study, Water Beings explores humanity's enduring but always transforming connections to the wellsprings of life. A profound and entertaining book for a time when reimagining humanity's future has never been more vital.' - Caspar Henderson, author of The Book of Barely Imagined Beings
'With passion, rigor and creative depth, Strang eloquently takes readers across the world to further our understanding of water's natural, cultural, and symbolic qualities. Water beings are brought to life alongside relational beliefs and practices. This is a magnificent work that reflects a rich human/water/culture relationship, and explores possibilities to avoid a climate crisis future.' - Sandy Toussaint, University of Western Australia
'A spellbinding anthropological itinerary through the winding ways of serpentine water beings as they have manifested through history and across cultures. Luminously illustrated, ingeniously researched, and beautifully narrated, Strang's book is a treasure, a store of revelatory stories about how materiality, meaning, and myth have intertwined to create the aqueous spirits and deities that have accompanied human being and becoming.' - Stefan Helmreich, Elting E. Morison Professor of Anthropology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Looking to the vast human history of water worship, a crucial study of our broken relationship with all things aquatic - and how we might mend it.
Early human relationships with water were expressed through beliefs in serpentine aquatic deities: rainbow-coloured, feathered or horned serpents, giant anacondas and dragons. Representing the powers of water, these beings were bringers of life and sustenance, world creators, ancestors, guardian spirits and law makers. Worshipped and appeased, they embodied people's respect for water and its vital role in sustaining all living things.
Yet today, though we still recognise that 'water is life', fresh- and saltwater ecosystems have been critically compromised by human activities. This major study of water beings, and what has happened to them in different cultural and historical contexts, demonstrates how and why some - but not all - societies have moved from worshipping water to wreaking havoc upon it, and asks what we can do to turn the tide.
'A far-ranging and gorgeously illustrated study, Water Beings explores humanity's enduring but always transforming connections to the wellsprings of life. A profound and entertaining book for a time when reimagining humanity's future has never been more vital.' - Caspar Henderson, author of The Book of Barely Imagined Beings
'With passion, rigor and creative depth, Strang eloquently takes readers across the world to further our understanding of water's natural, cultural, and symbolic qualities. Water beings are brought to life alongside relational beliefs and practices. This is a magnificent work that reflects a rich human/water/culture relationship, and explores possibilities to avoid a climate crisis future.' - Sandy Toussaint, University of Western Australia
'A spellbinding anthropological itinerary through the winding ways of serpentine water beings as they have manifested through history and across cultures. Luminously illustrated, ingeniously researched, and beautifully narrated, Strang's book is a treasure, a store of revelatory stories about how materiality, meaning, and myth have intertwined to create the aqueous spirits and deities that have accompanied human being and becoming.' - Stefan Helmreich, Elting E. Morison Professor of Anthropology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Being in Being contains three masterpieces by legendary Haida mythteller Skaay of the Qquuna Qiighawaay. The shortest recounts the high points of the legend of his family. The second, Raven...
BookLoop is your trusted local Australian destination for books, games, toys, puzzles, tarot cards, stationery, and thoughtful gifts, offering a huge range of carefully curated products for curious minds of all ages. As a proudly Australian-owned bookstore, we are passionate about connecting our community with inspiring reads, creative play, and unique finds that bring joy, spark imagination, and support lifelong learning. Whether you're shopping for bestselling fiction, children’s picture books, educational resources, or non-fiction titles that encourage mental health, mindfulness, and personal growth, our ever-expanding book collection has something for everyone—including titles from local Australian authors that celebrate homegrown talent and storytelling. But we’re more than just a bookstore—our diverse range includes engaging puzzles for solo or family fun, educational and screen-free toys designed to develop skills and creativity, and family-friendly board games that bring people together. If you're looking for something with a little extra meaning, our beautifully illustrated tarot cards and oracle decks are perfect for beginners and seasoned readers alike, with options chosen for their artistry, symbolism, and accessibility. We also carry a range of gifts and stationery, from handcrafted journals and high-quality pens to bookmarks, greeting cards, candles, and calming tools, making it easy to find the perfect present for birthdays, celebrations, or simply because. Every product on our shelves is selected with care, quality, and purpose, making BookLoop a one-stop shop for thoughtful, meaningful shopping that supports creativity and wellbeing. We believe in the value of small business and community connection, which is why we’re committed to sourcing products that reflect our values and offering the kind of friendly, personalised service that big retailers can’t match. When you shop with us, you’re not only choosing beautifully curated items—you’re supporting a local Australian business that genuinely cares. We ship Australia-wide with a flat rate to keep things simple and affordable, and every order is carefully packed and quickly dispatched by our small, dedicated team. Our online shopping experience is safe, easy, and user-friendly, making it convenient to explore our wide range of books, gifts, and games from the comfort of home. We’ve seen a growing demand for titles and toys that support mental health, especially in children and teens, and we’re proud to stock a growing number of books on ADHD, emotional regulation, positive thinking, and self-esteem, as well as calming puzzles and sensory-friendly gifts that are both fun and supportive. Whether you're looking to inspire a young reader, encourage imaginative play, find your next favourite novel, or gift someone something truly special, BookLoop has you covered. Thank you for choosing to shop local and support a business that believes in the power of stories, creativity, and connection—explore our full collection today and experience the difference of thoughtful, heart-led retail with BookLoop.
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