americas

This reader is a great resource for teachers at all levels. It proved to be a great help in my curriculum planning.

Native American Voices may be the only volume that emits from "Native Country" encompassing the western hemisphere. From the Inuit and Athapascan near the Polar Rim to the Mapuche and Tierra Del Fuego, this volume winnows articulation from a variety of common dialogues. Often we are presented with great philosophy; sometimes we are greeted with prophacy. But, always there is the warning that the lives of the Native People have been assaulted and drastically altered, and if we, the Native Nations, do not reverse ourselves and adhere to the wisdom and the knowledge of our forefathers, we may, along with "civilization," perish. Perusing Native American Voices, we are presented with a scurry of tribal activity that cautions the Elders to guide the youth, and for the youth to listen and to employ that wisdom with respectful enthusiasm. From the British Domain down through California, piercing the Dakotas, entering the realm of the Iroquois Confederacy and southward, there is the cry of political injustice, and that taking the Tribal Laws of great Native Nations and using them for the benefit of the invading masses is not an act of righteousness. In Native Ameircan Voices we hear the weeping of women and children and the clash of swords as the invading hordes rush to attach a people armed only with kindness. WE are witness to the attack. We are also a spectator in the arena where native multitudes are marched in to be baptized in the name of God. Moments later, the baptized are beheaded. Native American Voices is often a requirement in my classes. The students wonder why there were never taught "this" in American and World History in high school. They, too, worry about the value of life in the future. But, thanks to the labors of special people likeLobo and Talbot, the Native People will not fade into the sunset. On page 477, Philip Deere succinctly states the determination of the Native Nations to continue, "We are a people that are made and placed here for a purpose. Through many struggles, through many years of struggle and sufferings we refuse to die." Highly recommended.

For information on the cover art, chapter heading art, as well as other art by Parris Butler, give him a call at River of Dreams Fine Art (510) 527-5687, ex. 2.