MacMillan Illustrated Encyclopedia of Myths and Legends

This survey of trends in U.S. religious beliefs compiled by the Gallup Organization presents tables and graphs that delineate Americans in groups and as individuals, and a variety of tallied responses to support the pollsters' conclusion that ``despite a strong, typically Amerian independent streak, the degrees of religious orthodoxy found among Americans is simply amazing.'' Belief in God is expressed by large numbers; Catholics appear to have become more independent in interpretation of dogma; the educated tend to be analytical about religion. There is a wealth of material here that, although informative, is plodding to read and in the form presented is not likely to interest general readers. (Nov.)