This book is VOL. 16. The trance is essential if a shaman is to reach an "altered stage of consciousness." With the aid of the Ayahuasca plant and chanting, the shaman gradually goes into a trance, and in this state can initiate actions both offensive and defensive in nature. For the amazonian indigenous communities, the shaman is the meeting point among all possible worlds; he is today as relevant as in the past. In the shamanic cosmological universe the shaman is the mediator that unites the invisible world with the visible world. This explains the reasons why, in spite of widespread cultural changes, authentic shamanism has not declined in the slightest. It is a powerful cultural influence for the inhabitants of the Amazon. This engaging book is also about the shaman's use of medicinal plants, which amply fills a new approach to tribal spirituality. An ideal introduction of shamanism for young readers. It will enrich their desire to learn about medicinal plants and spiritual alternatives. This real life colorfully illustrated narrative is highly recommended for naturalist, students of anthropology, school and community libraries and collectors of The Amazon Exploration Series.