Feathered Grace

In studies of fairy tales from all over the world,
only one basic rule holds true: the advice of the
animal helper is always right. It does not matter
what the animal tells the heroes of fairy tale to
do, what matters is following the animal''s advice.
If they do not, then disaster is certain to strike.
"Feathered Grace" explores the idea, found not only
in fairy tales, but in myths and literary traditions
around the world, that winged animals play an
essential role in inspiring and guiding human beings
to excel and embrace their own better natures, in
addition to warning what will happen if they indulge
in their lesser natures as well.
"Feathered Grace" studies stories from Greek, Roman,
Hindu, Buddhist, Jewish, Christian, Islamic, Celtic,
and Native American traditions, showing how winged
animals help in achieving wholeness and harmonic
balance of the individual and community. The book
concludes with consideration of the birds that share
our lives today in homes, backyards, and the
wilderness, exploring their essential role in
understanding the mutual reciprocity of our
collective existence.