From from Goddess worship to space exploration, this book on Luna examines the experience of the Moon in human history, using evidence from anthropology, history, religion, folklore, literature, art, and oral tradition. This unique treasury of moon lore explores traditions associated with specific phases of the moon, the influence of the moon in the natural world, the moon"s role in creation myths, Moon festivals and foods, lunar calendars, and the inspired lunacy of songs, poems, and nursery rhymes. Surveying the diverse learner traditions of Mesopotamia, Africa, China, the British Isles, pre-Colombian America, and Europe not only reveals how cultures have perceived the moon, but gives us a new understanding of our most ancient companion. In her thoughtful examination of modern moon lore, the author Kathleen Cain raises intriguing questions: why did NASA name its lunar missions after a sun God? Is our romance with the moon dead now that astronauts have walked on its surface? And why do we strap moon watches are wrists instead of looking up at the sky?