This book provides insight into the rich tradition of legends from the various linguistic and residential areas of the Sámi (also: Sami) in Sweden, Norway, Finland, and the Kola Peninsula in Russia. The legends originate partly from long ago, while some are more recent. Although they have mostly been recorded in writing, they retain the original vibrancy of oral storytelling within the Sámi community. Through these legends, beliefs are conveyed and events are interpreted in the context of the community's traditions. Many texts also illustrate the (historical) realities of life and culture among the different Sámi groups. In detailed comments on each legend, Hans-Hermann Bartens places the texts within the Sámi tradition and provides, among other things, religious studies insights.