Blends science, history, philosophy, and sociology to present a portrait of America's lion, from its role in Native American folklore to the current controversy over sport hunting in the Western states Mountain lion, puma, cougar, panther: all are names given to the New World's own big cat, which ranges from Canada to Patagonia and is powerful both physically and in its ability to embed itself in the myths and legends of every culture it encounters. Writing from a cultural perspective, Bolgiano, author of numerous wildlife articles, traces the big cat's interactions with humans in North America, thus the (questionable) use of "unnatural history" in the title. She describes the range of human reaction to the puma, from the respect and reverence of Native Americans to the hatred of ranchers to the current fascination with the cat as the symbol of the wilderness. Bolgiano also covers the attempts to restore the endangered Florida panther, the meaning of the frequent cougar sightings in the Northeast, and her excursion into the life of a professional puma hunter. This sometimes sad, always fascinating book is graced by Bolgiano's clear, melodious prose. Highly recommended for libraries of all levels.?Lynn C. Badger, Univ. of Florida Lib., Gainesville Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc. The mythic force of the mountain lion--also known as cougar, panther, or puma--runs throughout European and American culture from primitive to contemporary times. This unnatural history tells of the myths and impact of the creature rather than its natural habits, quarries, and lifestyle--although often the latter is cited within the mythological versions. Bolgiano's account stretches from tales in various Native American tribes to modern Madison Avenue perceptions that view the creature as a fast, sleek, dangerous, and powerful figure whose likeness is worthy of being depicted on knives, coats, and cars. Denise Perry Donavin This history of pumas and their interactions with humans presents an unnatural history based on seven years of research. From the lion's role in Native American folklore to frontier myths and modern interactions, this packs in some intriguing details. -- Midwest Book Review Used Book in Good Condition