Beyond the Stones of Machu Picchu: Folk Tales and Stories of Inca Life vibrantly depicts Andean village life through folk tales, stories, and art. The subject matter brings forth Inca rituals and beliefs about the living earth (Pacha Mama), the majestic mountains worshipped as Apus, the sky and its “black constellations,” the meanings attached to sacred water, the events of nature and ever-changing climate, the stages of life and growth, courage and transformation.

The book is written for both adults and children, introducing an in-depth look into South American Native People, their customs, everyday lives, incidents of change, and profound appreciation and celebration of the natural world. The paintings and stories provide a rare glimpse into Inca peoples’ creative work, especially the famous Andean practice of weaving and other textile arts.

The paintings of Angel Callañaupa Alvarez are distinguished by his expansive imagination, delightful humor, sense of space and composition, and story-telling skills. His art shares a wide perspective, vividly illustrating scenes from little-known but time-honored traditions.