Everything You Wanted to Know About Indians But Were Afraid to Ask

May 15, 2012

Positioning himself as an ambassador of the Ojibwe people, Treuer (Ojibwe, Bemidji State Univ., MN; The Assassination of Hole in the Day) endeavors to address misconceptions held by non-natives about the American Indian experience in the United States. He accomplishes his task by posing and answering approximately 125 questions divided into ten categories: "Terminology," "History," "Religion, Culture & Identity," "Powwow," "Tribal Languages," "Politics," "Economics," "Education," "Perspectives: Coming to Terms and Future Directions," and "Finding Ways to Make a Difference." Some of the questions, such as "Do Indians live in teepees?" and "What is the real story of Columbus?" are generic for this type of work, but other questions delve into politically sensitive areas such as the relationship between blood quantum and tribal enrollment. The author also thoughtfully provides examples of how cultural misunderstandings often have unintended consequences. For instance, he discusses how tribal license plates intended to show native pride became a tool for racial profiling by law enforcement. VERDICT This book, both entertaining and informative, is recommended for general readers.--John Burch, Campbellsville Univ. Lib., KY

Copyright 2012 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 1, 2012

Gr 9 Up-This collection of approximately 120 questions and answers, mainly gathered during the author's many public lectures on Native culture, can be used on many levels. Divided into chapters such as "Terminology"; "History"; "Religion, Culture, Identity"; "Powwow"; "Tribal Languages"; "Politics"; "Economics"; "Education"; and "Perspectives," questions range from general (What is a powwow? What were federal residential boarding schools?) to specific (How do tribal languages encapsulate a different world view?). Treuer, a Princeton scholar and member of the Ojibwe tribe, often uses personal examples in clear concise language, stating upfront that the views he expresses are his own. Black-and-white photographs and illustrations, both historical and modern, accompany the text where appropriate. Overall, this is a thoughtful and thought-provoking overview that serves to alleviate misconceptions and bridge knowledge gaps among cultures. A useful tool for students, an excellent resource for teachers, or simply an informative read for those interested in the topic, this book is for general purchase.-Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library

Copyright 2012 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.