Product Description
Known as “The Lords of the Land” during their heyday in the 1700s and early 1800s Arizona'sNavajo Indians came close to extinction as a result of military and civilian actions against them. But they have now recovered and Navajo Land is the largest Indian nation in the U.S., and a major tourist destination.

The following quote just hints at the depth and sophistication of their traditional culture, from their superb poetry to their treatment of the elderly.

"...As one's knowledge of Navajo life increases,
one learns that the Navajos have created
out of their human material a house of wonder.
Their intangible culture matches
the splendor of their land.
In terms of life—not of goods—
it is we who are poor, not the Navajos."
John Collier, Commissioner, Bureau of Indian Affairs, 1933-1936.

This book by Boye Lafayette De Mente, internationally known for his series of cultural-insights books on China, Japan, Korea and Mexico, brings out the history of these extraordinary Native Americans, from their arrival, their emergence as "the lords of the land," the nearly fatal efforts of white Americans to take their land and destroy their culture, to their comeback and the growing role they now play in Arizona.An outstanding background read for both residents and visitors. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

America's Famous Navajo Indians
The Navajo Indians were late-comers among Arizona's first residents, not showing up until around 900 A.D. Their oral history is replete with stories of worlds [civilizations] that came before this one and were destroyed because the people forgot the teachings of their gods and became selfish, venal and violent.

In sharp contrast to the image that early European invaders and immigrants had of the Navajos--as primitive savages who had no human rights--the Navajos had a remarkably sophisticated culture. They had a deep understanding of the relationship between the cosmos and all living things, an astounding tradition of poetry combined with spirituality, and social customs that were far superior to anything seen in the white world--even today!

Unlike several of Arizona's earliest residents in the central and southern part of the state who were farmers and village dwellers, the Navajos lived in the high mountains and plateaus of northern Arizona, and were hunters as well as farmers. They also had a warrior spirit and fought back when the Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 1540s and began to capture large numbers of them and ship them to Mexico to work as slaves in the silver mines. Large numbers of those who resisted were slaughtered.

The surviving Navajos stole horses from the Spanish invaders, and over the next 150 years became so powerful they were known as the "Lords of the Land," with their influence and their language extending throughout much of the Southwest.

But it was to be American military forces that nearly wiped out the proud Navajos in the 1860s because white settlers wanted their land, and the Navajos did not begin to recover from mistreatment by the American government until the mid-1900s.

The Navajo tribe is now the largest group of Native Americans in the U.S., and their Reservation is larger than several of the original American states in the New England area. I predict that the former "Lords of the Land" will once again become a powerful force in Arizona and the adjoining states.

I have used key words in the Navajo language to reveal aspects of theseNative Americans that has never been known to most other Americans, and is fascinating reading for residents as well as others--particularly those in other states and countries who might want to visit Arizona.

The Navajo Reservation is replete with some of the greatest natural attractions in the world, and welcomes visitors. The annual Navajo Fair in Window Rock, the capital,attracts people from around the world.

____________________

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Product Description
Ideal for today's young investigative reader, each A True Book includes lively sidebars, a glossary and index, plus a comprehensive "To Find Out More" section listing books, organizations, and Internet sites. A staple of library collections since the 1950s, the new A True Book series is the definitive nonfiction series for elementary school readers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

The UNTRUE Book: The Hopi
I disagree with the other reviewer in several things. It is simple- but it is intended for little kids. Unfortunately, the book is full of errors- including some major errors in the photographs. Some of the photos are good- but the "Hopi Kachina dancers" are actually Apache Gahn Dancers (Mountain Spirit or "crown" dancers), it implies that Hopi go only as high as Community College, it makes statements about Hopi religious beliefs that should NOT be discussed in a book for children- unless you think Hopi kids don't read books! I found so many errors it actually got funny if it were not that people actually believe these books!

something's missing
While it's imperative that we teach our children about other cultures this book does not offer enough details to do that. It glosses over what makes these Native-Americans different from other tribes in the desert of the Southern United States and how their culture developed. It is too simple and does not ask the reader to take part in the experience.

something's missing
While it's imperative that we teach our children about other cultures this book does not offer enough details to do that. It glosses over what makes these Native-Americans different from other tribes in the desert of the Southern United States and how their culture developed. It is too simple and does not ask the reader to take part in the experience. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Send in the Clowns!
What would our world be like without clowns?Let's hope we'll never have to experience such a time. The subtitle of this book describes the dual role of clowns in Hopi life and religion.Clowns are (both): "tradition keepers and delight makers".To the Hopi, clowns are more than just circus entertainers.To be sure, they function as slap-stick merry makers to the delight of the gathered crowds, but they are much more.From the Koshare (Tewa clown) to the Koyemsi (Mudhead) to the Kwikwilyaka (Mocking katsina) and the dozens of other clowns described by the author, the Hopi clowns serve as teachers who share valuable lessons about both the good and bad in mankind.Their role, as "tradition keepers" is critical to the Hopi way of life.Barton Wright does an excellent job of sharing the background and purpose of a wide variety of clowns.At one point Mr Wright describes them as the "caretakers" or "fathers" of the people and other kachinas.Such insight is critical to one's understanding of the Hopi, their customs and their dances. This is an excellent resource for anyone interested in Hopi legend and history or for the collector of Hopi art.The photographs and sketches contained in this 2004 publication were lacking in bothquality and detail.The sketches are primative and most photos contain examples from the 1970's rather than the highly detailed carvings of 1990 and beyond. With this in mind, my rating dropped from "5" to a "4".Overall, the book is one which I would recommend for any Hopi library. ... Read more

Product Description
Though of Scandinavian heritage, the author was initiated into the Seneca tribe as a medicine man, thus becoming one of the few white men so honored. His adventures into the strange (to outsiders) world of Indian magic rivals the experiences best-selling author Carlos Castaneda might have undergone.

Over the centuries, the native American priests have practiced a system of magic so powerful that it enables them to control the winds and the weather, to foresee coming events, and sometimes even to change the future. They have always possessed the ability to heal the sick, to walk over burning coals, to read minds, to send and receive telephathic thoughts, to communicate with the dead, speak to animals, and control others at a distance.

This book is a practical guide which teaches, among other things, the American Indian's way to perfection, telling the reader how to...

- Hold your own "Vision Quest."

- Communicate with spirits and angels and get them to assist you in all that you desire.

- Take total control of every situation and, through a formal agreement with the forces of nature, receive incredible benefits that can turn your life around for the better.

- Prepare your own "Medicine Bag" containing common objects that, after a simple ritual, becomes sacred and highly charged to the bearer.

- Send out "smoke signals" using your mind to contact and influence others many miles away. ... Read more

Product Description
From ancient rites enabling one to "walk in beauty" and harmony with the natural world to the dances, chants, and rituals representative of Navajo ceremonial life, this thoughtful and strikingly illustrated volume encompasses the essential elements of Navajo culture. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Beautiful little book
For such a small volume, it has a lot of beautiful photographs. Also a nice, short history of the tribe. I really like this series.

Excellent Gift
I did not open this product as it was a gift.I was impressed with the review and the overall packaging and would recommend this to anyone. ... Read more

Product Description
Fascinating U.S. Government ethnological study made at the turn of the century explores the use of katcinas—Hopi god symbols—in Pueblo Indian culture. 260 katcina figures on 62 black-and-white plates are reproduced here from original drawings by native artists. 62 plates. 260 black-and-white figures. Introduction.
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Product Description
This ebook is complete with linked Table of Content making navigation quicker and easier.

In this 4-in-1 omnibus edition, explore four Native American cultures, examining their lives, lore, and legends. Learn how they worshiped, lived in harmony with nature, and constructed unique social orders. Before Europeans invaded their homeland, these richly varied cultures thrived with a level of harmony with the land and dignity of spirit unmatched by modern Western civilization. Contained herein are The Sacred Formulas of the Cherokees; Blackfoot Lodge Tales; Truth of a Hopi; and Navaho Myths, Prayers, and Songs. Now you can explore these four cultures and their mystic traditions. ... Read more

Product Description
Recently updated, Hopi Kachinas: The Complete Guide to Collecting Kachina Dolls continues to be the best-selling book for identifying and collecting Kachinas. In this comprehensive guide, Barton Wright identifies over 150 dolls, ranging from the more traditional style of dolls to the new ultra-realistic style. Also included are detailed descriptions of the dolls and invaluable buying tips. Whether you are novice or an experienced collector, this book is a must-have for anyone interested in Kachina dolls. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Primary Resource For Identifying Hopi Kachina Dolls
After acquiring a collection of nine old kachina dolls (dating from the 1950s to the 1970s)I needed to be able to identify which spirit dancer each was meant to depict. This book was one of two that I bought to help me identify even the unusual ones I had bought, as well as learn about their background and get an idea of what the more modern Kachina Dolls look like...great photos!

Hopi Kachina book
This book is extremely helpful in identifying a wide range of Pueblo Indian kachinas and their reproduction as wood dolls, carved primarily by Hopi Indians in Arizona.It contains a helpful introduction to the history of Kachinas, and then proceeds to group them in many different categories with beautiful color photographs of the carved dolls in each grouping. Written descriptive paragraphs are included for each kachina illustrated.
This is a must book for anyone who collects kachina doll carvings or who wants to learn more about this fascinating and very important part of Pueblo Indian sprituality.

WHAT'S A KACHINA ???
ABOUT 15 YEARS AGO I WAS IN ARIZONA WITH FRIENDS WHO WERE SHOPPING FOR A KACHINA. " WHAT'S A KACHINA", I SAY??? ,I WAS NOT INTERESTED IN OWNING A KACHINA. I PICKED UP THIS BOOK, GLANCED THROUGH IT AND ENDED UP BUYING A 15"TALL KACHINA," DANCING BEAR." I (and my friends) ACTUALLY BELIEVE THE KACHINA PICKED ME. I SELECTED SIX 2-3 INCH KACHINAS. THE OWNER OF THE SHOP GAVE THEM TO ME (free), REDUCED THE PRICE OF "DANCING BEAR"AND SHIPPED THEM ALL HOME ( NY ) FOR ME AT HIS COST ............ P.S. MY FRIENDS DIDN'T FIND ONE.THE KACHINAS IN THIS BOOK STOLE MY HEART.

Contents
hopi kachinas

the complete guide to collecting kachina dolls

by barton wright

"To the Hopi, kachinas are the spirit essence of everything in the real world. In this highly readable and informative book you"ll find a comprehensive guide to Hopi kachina dolls, including buying tips. This is the perfect place to begin to learn about Kachina dolls. Whether you are a novice or an experienced collector, this guide will be of great help. The detailed descriptions and information are a must for any collector."

EXCELLENT GUIDE FOR ANYONE PLANNING TO BUY KACHINA DOLLS
This is the perfect place to begin to learn about Kachina dolls.Whether you are a novice or an experienced collector, this guide will be of great help.The detailed descriptions and information are a must for anycollector.For those planning to buy a kachina doll, I highly recommendTHE NATIVE AMERICAN INDIAN ARTIST DIRECTORY. It will enable you to find thekachina carver you are looking for.When you find a kachina you like inone of the Jacka or other fine Southwest Indian art books, check the nameand then find it in the directory - along with mailing address and phone #! Call the artist directly, make an appointment, take along your COMPLETEGUIDE TO COLLECTING KACHINA DOLLS and have a great time! ... Read more

Product Description
A guide to Kachinas ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Best Hopi resource available
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_gw?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Hopi+Kachina+Tradition%3A+Following+the+Sun+and+Moon+&x=19&y=15
Hopi Kachina Tradition: Following the Sun and Moon
This book provides an exceptional insight into the traditions of the Hopi people.I have quite a few books on the Hopi and Alph Sekakuku writes with authority, clarity and personal insight into the traditions of his people.

BRILLIANT, THE ONLY BOOK YOU NEED ON THE HOPI KACHINI
ON A TRAVEL OF MINE, I WAS VERY, VERY FORTUNATE TO HAVE MET ALPHA AND HISNEICE ON THE HOPI RESERVATION.I HAD NO IDEA WHAT THIS MEETING WOULD BRING AND HERE'S HOPING IT BRINGS MORE DELIGHTS..... THEY ARE THE BEST OF PEOPLE,TRULY A CULTURE THAT LIVES THEIR TRADITIONS, ONE THAT SHOULD BERESPECTED.I WAS GIVEN ASEED OF THEIR KNOWLEDGE ON THAT FIRST VISIT AND WAS ANXIOUSTO READ THIS BOOK, WHICH I DID THE WHOLE DAY!IF YOU WANT A BOOK REGARDINGTHE HOPI KACHINI TRADITION THIS IS IT! THIS BOOKTRULY GIVES US A GOODPEAK INTO THEIR "RELIGION" AND BELIEFS, ONE THAT IBELIEVE WECAN NEVER REALLY KNOW FULLY, BUTALPH HAS BEEN KIND ENOUGH TO GIVE US AFEW SEEDS.IF YOU MAKE A TRIP TO THE S.W. MAKE SURE YOU STOP AT THE HOPICULTURE CENTER AND PAY A VISIT.BRING THEM SOME GOOD COFFEE!

Excellent Book Written By A Hopi
You can read all the Kachina books you want, but take them all with a grain of salt until you read this one.This is the first book about the Kachina (actually "Katsina") tradition written by a Hopi.That is significant because of the secrecy around the religion. This book was suggested to me by a man who lives on Second Mesa of the Hopi Reservation.He said, "After years of bad books about Kachinas written by white guys, finally there's one written by a Hopi." This book gives the reader a clear understanding of the basics of the Hopi calendar and the Hopi religion. This is not a book about Kachina dolls, although it has photos of approximately 200 old style dolls.It is about the spirits those dolls represent. Buy this book as an indispensable reference.The Heard Museum in Phoenix deserves credit along with the author for presenting this great collection of dolls and descriptions. ... Read more

Product Description
Down in the kitchen Viv's parents try to hide the morning paper from her. But Viv sees the headlines: “Week-Long Search Finally Called Off For Local Pair Lost In Canyon."

Viv stares at the photos of her lovely cousin and Kevin. Kevin's photo mesmerizes her. He seems like he's actually standing beside her with those brawny muscles and that devil-may-care stance posing with a walking stick in front of a mountain. Viv protests that the park service shouldn't call off the search. A few more days might help!

Her parents try to reason with her. The park service has conducted helicopter searches for a week now. They've asked for volunteers to hike the trails along with the police. They couldn't find even a scrap of clothing let alone bodies! The official conclusion is that Kevin and Lisa fell into the Colorado River at the bottom of the Grand Canyon.

The mailman comes. There's a letter from Kevin! He asks Viv to bring supplies down to the spring right below Indian Gardens. He and Lisa can't leave the Canyon. They've gotten themselves into a jam.

Viv excitedly waves the letter in front of her parents. Kevin and Lisa are alive! Her parents don't share her excitement. They insist that the letter's obviously a prank.

Viv feels duty bound to go down there and find out for herself. ... Read more

Product Description
1986 - Northland Press - 1st Edition - Paperback - The HOPI Way : Tales From a Vanishing Culture - Collected by Mando Sevillano - New - Rare - Limited Edition - Collectible ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Excellent collection of Hopi stories including modern tales
Excellent translation. Catches the feel of Hopi storytelling. One interesting story is a modern Coyote story- Coyote and the Black Snake. It has a pun with mild sexual innuendo- a common Hopi pattern- yet the punonly works in English! ... Read more

Product Description
This scarce antiquarian book is a selection from Kessinger Publishings Legacy Reprint Series. Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment to protecting, preserving, and promoting the worlds literature. Kessinger Publishing is the place to find hundreds of thousands of rare and hard-to-find books with something of interest for everyone! ... Read more

Product Description
Drawing on Hopi traditional knowledge, Bernardini describes how each clan acquired its particular identity from the experiences it accumulated on its unique migration pathway, producing a pattern of "serial migration" in which villages briefly came together and then moved off again independently. He offers an analysis of rock art motifs to evaluate the diversity of group identities, then presents a compositional analysis of Jeddito Yellow Ware pottery to evaluate the diversity of these groups' eventual migration destinations. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A Wealth of Understanding
In this work which concentrates on the oral traditions surrounding the patterns of serial migration of the Hopi people within the Anderson Mesa area Bernardini makes a nearly un-assailable case for the inclusion of native oral traditions in the study of archaeology.Cohesive, thoroughly considered and informative, this book is a must for any serious student of Southwestern Archaeology.

Keen insights into both historical and modern-day issues
Written by University of Redlands assistant professor in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology Wesley Bernardini, Hopi Oral Tradition And The Archaeology Of Identity is the SAA Award Winning look at how drawing upon Hopi oral history and traditional knowledge can be applied as a source to stimulate new ways of viewing archaeological record. In an era when increasingly complex debate surrounds the methodologies and theories used to reconstruct prehistoric identity and the movement of social groups among Native Americans, particularly the southwestern tribes with their shifting populations and identities over the past thousand years, Hopi Oral Tradition And The Archaeology Of Identity sheds new light on a difficult and sometimes emotionally charged matter. Drawing upon case studies, architectural and demographic data, analysis of rock art motifs, and more, Hopi Oral Tradition And The Archaeology Of Identity is a most welcome scholarly analysis offering keen insights into both historical and modern-day issues. A welcome contribution to both archaeology and Native American studies shelves. ... Read more