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wafflefonfabre's review against another edition
1.0
TLDR:You might get one or two myths or fun facts from this like I did but I still think any other myth book would be better. This books wastes most of its page count examining one myth over and over with very few new details each time. Im so disappointed tricksters are my favorite myth archetype and I wanted to learn more about tricksters that may not be well known.
This is one of the worst mythology books I've ever read and I've read a lot of them. This book not only redefines trickster to a definition thats just mind bogglingly strange, Lewis redefines trickster to a boundary crosser or in-between being or crossroads god. He didn't even include cleverness or anything about playing a trick which is how most people categorize tricksters.
Despite redefining the word trickster to basically encompass any god he still excludes goddess from being tricksters despite the face I could think of 5 off the top of my head that fit in the normal and his definition. This book doesn't even focus on most tricksters. Its dull and mainly examining one myth, you heard me one myth. For a god who I would say is on the edge of being a trickster, Hermes.
Honestly your better off picking up a Edith Hamiltons Greek myth book or another other book on myth cause you will learn little here. Every time you think your gonna learn about a new trickster psyche! No its Hermes time again! You know I like Hermes but this is 100 pages of the same myth. It feels like a high schoolers essay that Lewis is stretching out to hit a page limit.
This is one of the worst mythology books I've ever read and I've read a lot of them. This book not only redefines trickster to a definition thats just mind bogglingly strange, Lewis redefines trickster to a boundary crosser or in-between being or crossroads god. He didn't even include cleverness or anything about playing a trick which is how most people categorize tricksters.
Despite redefining the word trickster to basically encompass any god he still excludes goddess from being tricksters despite the face I could think of 5 off the top of my head that fit in the normal and his definition. This book doesn't even focus on most tricksters. Its dull and mainly examining one myth, you heard me one myth. For a god who I would say is on the edge of being a trickster, Hermes.
Honestly your better off picking up a Edith Hamiltons Greek myth book or another other book on myth cause you will learn little here. Every time you think your gonna learn about a new trickster psyche! No its Hermes time again! You know I like Hermes but this is 100 pages of the same myth. It feels like a high schoolers essay that Lewis is stretching out to hit a page limit.
nettles's review against another edition
1.0
Dnf 30%
Funny how Hyde came up with his own definition of trickster—which doesn’t include deception btw—and then blames other academics for why women are excluded and can’t be tricksters.
The writing has a certain type of academic pretentiousness that didn’t land for me. (What does he mean that the cows Hermes kidnapped represent asexuality?) I tried to read this in a book club and we simply had enough and moved on.
We’re looking for other books with Trickster god myths now.
Funny how Hyde came up with his own definition of trickster—which doesn’t include deception btw—and then blames other academics for why women are excluded and can’t be tricksters.
The writing has a certain type of academic pretentiousness that didn’t land for me. (What does he mean that the cows Hermes kidnapped represent asexuality?) I tried to read this in a book club and we simply had enough and moved on.
We’re looking for other books with Trickster god myths now.
small_gift811's review against another edition
4.0
This is a dense and rewarding book. It took concentration to read. Parts of it felt revelatory and transformed my thinking about tricksters as archetypes. I also learned much about Fredrick Douglass that I did not know. I loved the way Hyde writes, weaning together myth, present day a& his reflections on the intersections. My one bed is that a few of the chapters felt more abstract and disconnected (notably the interlude & project chapters for me).
orionmerlin's review against another edition
challenging
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
4.5
Credibility & Research: 9/10
Lewis Hyde’s exploration of the trickster archetype feels deeply researched and intellectually rigorous. He draws from an impressive range of mythology, anthropology, and literature, making connections that feel both well-founded and insightful. While his focus on Western and Indigenous trickster figures is comprehensive, some areas—such as African and Asian trickster traditions—receive comparatively less attention. Still, the book never feels agenda-driven, and the research is presented with a balanced, scholarly curiosity rather than ideological bias. Hyde’s use of primary and secondary sources adds legitimacy, though direct citations and footnotes are sometimes lacking.
Authenticity & Uniqueness: 10/10
This book is unlike anything else I have read on mythology or creativity. Hyde takes a well-known folkloric figure and recontextualizes it as a force that shapes not just myth but art, politics, and culture. His examination of how tricksters disrupt societal norms and generate creative breakthroughs offers a fresh way of understanding figures like Picasso, Duchamp, and Frederick Douglass. Rather than presenting mythology as static stories, Hyde shows how trickster figures continue to influence the world, making this an original and compelling contribution to cultural studies.
Writing Style: 8/10
Hyde’s writing is engaging, poetic, and often profound, but it demands focus. He blends storytelling with analysis in a way that rewards patience but doesn’t always make for an easy read. While his prose is elegant, some sections meander, making it difficult to stay grounded in his overarching thesis. The structure is more thematic than linear, which can feel fluid but also occasionally disjointed. That said, his ability to weave myth, philosophy, and cultural criticism together is impressive, and the book’s lyrical quality makes it feel almost mythical in itself.
Personal Impact: 9/10
This book fundamentally changed how I view creativity, rebellion, and the role of mischief in cultural progress. Hyde’s perspective on trickster figures as agents of necessary disorder resonated deeply, making me rethink how transgression and playfulness fuel innovation. His analysis of artists and historical figures through this lens reframed my understanding of their contributions. The book doesn’t offer straightforward "life lessons" but instead provides a more nuanced, transformative way of seeing the world. It stays with you long after you finish reading.
Intrigue: 8/10
The book kept my attention for the most part, though some sections felt denser and more abstract than others. When Hyde delves into mythology, his storytelling is captivating, but when he shifts into lengthy philosophical discussions, the pace slows. The mix of narrative and analysis is fascinating, but it isn’t always evenly paced. Still, the concept of trickster figures shaping art and culture is so compelling that I remained engaged, even when certain sections required extra effort.
Logic & Informativeness: 9/10
Hyde organizes his ideas in a way that feels intellectually rewarding, though not always linear. His arguments about the trickster's role in society and culture are well-supported, and he provides ample historical and mythological evidence to back his claims. While the book occasionally feels more like a collection of interwoven essays than a single, cohesive argument, each section contributes meaningfully to the whole. There’s no fluff here—every passage is rich with thought-provoking material.
Enjoyment: 9/10
I thoroughly enjoyed Trickster Makes This World. It is a book that challenges assumptions and encourages a deeper engagement with myth, art, and creativity. It’s not a casual or quick read, but for those willing to invest the time, it offers immense rewards. I would recommend it to anyone interested in mythology, philosophy, or the role of disruption in artistic and cultural evolution. Hyde’s writing is both intellectually and aesthetically satisfying, making this a deeply enriching read.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Misogyny, Racism, Cultural appropriation, and Colonisation
Minor: Cursing, Death, and Alcohol
The book explores trickster figures across various cultures, some of which are linked to colonial histories, racial injustices, and cultural tensions. While these topics are examined through an academic and mythological lens, they may still be sensitive for some readers. Hyde also discusses transgression and rebellion in art and literature, which includes occasional strong language and references to substance use.gabesteller's review against another edition
4.0
Very cool examination of the Trickster figure in various cultures and the similar functions his myths serve, and how he’s like the father of imagination! Woohoo!
Was definitely one of those galaxy brain books that starts one place, seems to get pretty abstract, and then brings it all home and you’re like WooooOOOaaaAAAhhhh!!
Highlights included learning about weird rituals like the medieval festival of fools where people would invade the church dressed in drag, or in grotesque masks, and drink and sing and dance around to gross songs.
As well as discussion of how tricksters can both inspire a challenge to the social order, and be a way to maintain it, his stories/traditions serving as a safety valve for dissent, mocking (festival of fools!).
The comparisons of modern artists to tricksters doesn’t completely avoid cliché but there is a suuuuper interesting exploration of Frederick Douglas, and the discussion of the public reaction to Robert Mapplethorpe’s Homoerotic/graphic photography VS. public reaction to Piss Christ, is useful as well.
By the end Hyde, does sorta start to repeat him self a bit, and even tho it’s only about 300 pages, probably still coulda cut 50 or so. Still, very worth it!
Was definitely one of those galaxy brain books that starts one place, seems to get pretty abstract, and then brings it all home and you’re like WooooOOOaaaAAAhhhh!!
Highlights included learning about weird rituals like the medieval festival of fools where people would invade the church dressed in drag, or in grotesque masks, and drink and sing and dance around to gross songs.
As well as discussion of how tricksters can both inspire a challenge to the social order, and be a way to maintain it, his stories/traditions serving as a safety valve for dissent, mocking (festival of fools!).
The comparisons of modern artists to tricksters doesn’t completely avoid cliché but there is a suuuuper interesting exploration of Frederick Douglas, and the discussion of the public reaction to Robert Mapplethorpe’s Homoerotic/graphic photography VS. public reaction to Piss Christ, is useful as well.
By the end Hyde, does sorta start to repeat him self a bit, and even tho it’s only about 300 pages, probably still coulda cut 50 or so. Still, very worth it!