In times past, it was not uncommon for a seeker of knowledge to request the advice of an Elder; someone skilled in the ability to commune with the energies of nature. Elders were seen as direct links between the people and Spirit, with their words held in high esteem. When questions were raised, the Elder would take up a small pouch, perhaps containing claws, teeth, whiskers and bones of sacred animals which, after a quick shake, would be upended, the contents permitted to spill haphazardly onto the ground. Depending on where and how they fell, and the patterns they formed, the Elder would glean information relevant to the seeker by interpreting the messages offered by the animals represented by the claws and teeth.Developed with the corresponding energies of the four directions in mind, the uniquely Australian 'Animal Dreaming Oracle' embraces this ancient concept in a manner more befitting our times. Instead of the traditional claws and bones, it presents the animal energies to the people as beautifully illustrated portraits.