The ancient Aztecs and Maya, and the cultures that preceded them, had a complex and colorful mythology. According to one Aztec myth, for instance, the sun needs sustenance from human blood and hearts in order to rise and set. In a Maya creation myth, humans come into being after the gods shed their blood onto corn created from bones. In many of these ancient cultures, real bloodletting and sacrifice was part of their ceremonial life. These fantastic stories are captures in Gods of Sun & Sacrifice: Aztec and Maya Myth.