The Legend of Lord Eight Deer is a retelling of the great epic saga of the Mixtec people of Mexico recorded in pictographs painted on deer-hide codices more than 500 years ago. The legend begins with the mysterious murder of three princes and unfolds as Lord Eight Deer embarks on a quest to rule his kingdom that takes him to the gates of the Sun God himself. It is a story of breathtaking beauty-a story of gods and kings, heroes and princesses, thieves and holy men, and the betrayal of love. John Pohl's vivid retelling and dazzling illustrations brings to life the last great flowering of Mesoamerican civilization. "The Story Behind the Story," an illustrated section immediately following the retelling, offers a dynamic look at the history, religion, warfare, and daily life of the Mixtec people, the ancient codices, and the legacy of the tale today.