David Grant Books

This book is indeed a masterpiece written by a real Hawaiian King himself, his majesty King David Kalakaua. As a Polynesian Hawaiian I have heard connections of the Hawaiians to Samoa, but I always thought they were just hearsays. Now its clear as crystal how Hawaiians are related to Samoa, the big island chiefs came from Samoa.

The Hawaiian King himself proclaims the Kamehameha lineage back to the Ali'i chief from Samoa named Pili, brought over by a high priest (Kahuna) named Pa'ao from Samoa. The Hawaiian King clearly identifies which ruling alii chief families descended from Tahiti, Society islands, Marquesas and the Ali'is who ruled big island Hawai'i from Samoa, the alii chief Pilikaeae or simply Pili.

The book is testament to the vast knowledge of the great Kamehameha Kings in King David Kalakaua. The written word by the Hawaiian king should be heralded and treasured for he possessed the highest of confidence, counsel, validity and security of information from his own family, advisors and educators his time.

The King's book is truly of highest value and respect, very eloquent, academic and articulate. The book is highly educational and full of information which clarify a lot about the origins of the Hawaiian people from Samoa, Tahiti and the Marquesas.

Pele the volcano goddess was an immigrant from Samoa to Puna, Hawaii according to the King Kalakaua. Classic relevations, this is a great source for understanding the birth of the Hawaiian people and their culture. The original Kanaka maoli from Samoa, Tahiti and the Society islands. The Hawaiian King proclaims the origins of the Hawaiian people from the Polynesian navigators.

A great book to fully understand the beginnings of the Hawaiian people. Written and published by the Hawaiian King King David La'amea Kalakaua in 1888. Great book, full of revelations and answers. Hawaiiana, Samoana & Polynesia exposed by a royal Hawaiian King himself, King David Kalakaua. Indeed a masterpiece.

The Legends and Myths of Hawaii is one of the finest books you will ever read concerning that magical fleet of islands anchored in the Pacific, not to mention one of the very best mythology books you will find anywhere. Written with great gusto by David Kalakaua, His Hawaiian Majesty who was also somewhat of a Renaissance Man, these fabulous tales mix fact with fiction, historical figures with gods and goddesses, past and present into a rich stew of oral myth/history, certain to captivate even the most jaded reader. Indeed, the most striking feature of these wonderful tales is how the author accepts as gospel truth many suppositions that scientists and cultural anthopologists are still debating more than a century after his death. For example, most "scholarly" references to Ancient Hawaii mention the Menehunes, that proto-Hawaiian, pre-Polynesian race of people that supposedly inhabited the islands until the turn of the last millenium, but most sources still conjecture whether this band of early settlers existed in actual fact or only in myth and legend. His Majesty not only acknowledges that Menehunes lived and thrived, but actually may have survived the later "Polynesian invasion" which was supposed to have wiped them out; he cites a recent census where 65 inhabitants of a remote valley actually identified themselves as "Menehune"!!! It seems that many of our esteemed present-day scholars should in fact examine these tales more closely, the better to clear up ancient factual mysteries. (Halfway around the world, Hellenistic scholars, those concerned with ancient Greece, used Homer in their quest to unearth their legendary rival city of Troy in present-day Turkey. The bards of old truly knew what they were talking about!!) Fans of Greek and other mythologies, as well as The Bible, will no doubt discover similarities between several of these stories and the legends of other cultures, most notably in the tale of "Hina, the Helen of Hawaii," that leads off this collection. Still, even if you could care a hill of taro for the factual content or scholarly discussions of Ancient Hawaii, do yourself a favor and buy this book anyway. Kalakaua, is first and foremost, a great storyteller, and all those who love a great story will be thrilled for hours. It's hard to pick out personal favorites because all are so good, but "Hina," "Umi, the Peasant Prince of Hawaii," and any story starring Pele, the often beautiful, always dangerous volcano goddess, are all standouts. So, if you love the myth and magic that is Hawaii, buy this most wonderful book today. The words of His Majesty await your endless pleasure!

Originally published in 1888, The Legends And Myths of Hawaii by King David Kalakaua is probably the best book currently available on Hawaiian folklore, and due to its authentic pedigree, likely to be for some time. Written with a certain amount of historical bias and subjectivity, only a thoroughly objective, enthusiastic and well-conceived scholarly overview will be able to equal it.

In the early 19th century, and under the rule of an inappropriate king, a band of political and religious leaders of the only-recently united Hawaiian Islands formed a conspiracy with the intent of overthrowing the centuries-old native Hawaiian religion and tabu (taboo) traditions. Though Christian missionaries were to arrive later, the conspirators had recently witnessed the arrival of foreign merchants to the islands, white men who appeared to act as they pleased without receiving fatal punishment from the native gods. The weak young king, already something of a hedonist, was persuaded by the conspirators to join them in a public display of tabu defiance. Sadly, the conspirators were successful, and on that day the tabu system, gods, and idols--their entire centuries-old religious system--officially went into the fire forever.

Author Kalakaua, a direct descendant of the royal line, was famous during his reign for attempting to reverse this cultural dissolution and return the full majesty of the ancient Hawaiian traditions back to prominence among his people. Legends And Myths Of Hawaii was part of his effort, and, as such, has an important and dignified history. Throughout the volume, sensitive readers may sense the author's mental, emotional, and historical intimacy with his material. Only a hundred years before his book was published, the Hawaiian people were still 'pure,' free of Western influence, and living a relatively comfortable stone-age existence after fifteen centuries. .

Beautifully introduced by R. M. Daggett and highly readable throughout, the text underscores the importance of honor, nobility of character, the warrior code, respect for self, family and nature, and finding the necessary balance between individual and communal needs. Sneakiness, pettiness, and selfishness are found to be disreputable qualities; facial beauty, excellent physical proportion, athletic ability, personal integrity, and joy in life are highly valued.

As outlined by the tales, gender roles are traditional: men are expected to be masculine and honorable, whether warrior, sportsman, shaman, folk-singer, fisherman, or farmer. Women are observed to be behaving appropriately when warm, supportive, comforting, and pure of intention. Interestingly, though denied the better food under the tabu system, women are often portrayed as objects of veneration, worthy of the sacrifice of a man's life, and held as equals in love relationships. For both sexes, responsible and dedicated parenting is fundamental.

These are vital, proud legends of heroes and heroines; their blood percolates through the book's pages. Expectedly, the stories are largely archetypal: there are quests, plagues upon the land, a high priest swallowed by a whale, and solar and lunar motifs. War and the conflicts that lead to war are a constant theme; gods, demi-gods, and goddesses are continually present. Though giants, evil spirits and monsters lurk under the sea, behind mountains and in trees and rocks, the writing is evenly balanced so just the suggestion of a hidden underwater cave, a long journey, an inter-family act of betrayal or a timeless, unconditional love creates the required interest and suspense. No single storytelling component is emphasized over another, and though each tale has an ethical point and lesson, the writing is never didactic. Each of the legends is enthusiastically told, and Kalakaua's terse descriptions of nature are simply beautiful.

Amazingly, Kalakaua jumps from the myths of island antiquity to those of his own century without a shift or change of tone; for the Hawaiian people, he seems to be saying, the miraculous moment is always now, as it was then, in the present. The legends are still unfolding, and wonders never cease.

Legends And Myths of Hawaii also contains a map of the islands, an excellent glossary of Hawaiian words and their meanings, as well as a brief but effective pronunciation guide.

As a online pal of mine pointed out to me recently, many people who have visited Hawaii seem to be on a quest to find 'the real Hawaii' - unspoiled by American influence and modern capitalism. This book provides a very unique insight into the ancient Hawaiian culture. Interestingly enough, many of the stories - including the Hawaiian creation myth - bear a strong resemblance to that of other cultures. The legends compiled here are poetic and mystical, reading like the script to an anime movie. My personal favorite was 'The Iron Knife,' which recounts the story of the first metal weapon introduced to the islands. 'Umi, The Peasant Prince of Hawaii' is another one that stands out. Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the book, however, lies in the fact that each ot the stories are just as based in fact as they are in fiction. I highly recommend this book to anyone with even a wanning interest in the islands. The only drawbacks I see is that to someone not familiar with the Hawaiian language, keeping some of the character names in line may take a bit of effort; and at times, the attention to small details are bordering on tedious. A great read, nonetheless.

Facinating book that places Hawaian folk lore in its historical roots. Studies of different Hawaian characters and their exploits both historically and mythologically allows the reader to dig deeper into the culture of an isolated people.

And who better to write it but the last King of Hawaii!

Certainly there is a slant to European influence, but I found that in the introduction. The assumption by the author of the introduction that most of these legends have their roots in semitic lore is going too far. Stories like these come from all cultures and have nothing to do with Middle Eastern culture.

Many people in many places of the world that have been touched by Christian missionary work fail to understand that the beliefs and God of Christianity has been drawn into the existing culture and is not as "pure" as is assumed.

I do not doubt that David Kalakaua was influenced by European thought, but he also had great respect for traditional Hawaian beliefs. To assume that these represent an European version of Hawaian lore that is false. As the royal representative of his people, David Kalakaua knew that it was his responsibily to present accurate and faithful renditions of these stories.

Contental Americans and tourists from all over the world think they understand Hawaii, but Hawaians are a secretative people about their beliefs in traditional Hawaian culture. Anyone who expects them to publically display their inner passions will be disappointed and uninformed.

Ride one of the public bus routes and while you will see the islanders in their "western" skins, just look into their eyes and you often see a detachment from many "western" styles and beliefs. They are not a rude people -- just very private.

Just because there are tourist displays of traditional forms of music and dance, tourists can't possibly get into the mind and heart of an Hawaian. Those who think they understand Hawaii from a "white" viewpoint understand nothing.

I say hurrah to David Kalakaua for his faithfulness to many of his people's stories and lore.

If you are at all interested in singing on the theater stage, this book is a must. I recommend highly along with the nine hour video. Not something you will see on the usual market. Get it!

David Craig literally invented musical theatre performance training. He was the master. You may want to save this book until after you've read some others. It is highly technical and deals with performers on at a master level. His books and tapes are all we have left of this amazing teacher. But there was simply no one better.

This is indeed a very brilliant guide to singing onstage. However, I do not recommend it to novices. I remember having read this book when I was still a drama student in school, and not understanding most of what the great David Craig taught, because his methods are so painfully detailed(which is good, but not if you've never stood on a stage much before), and requires a good amount of maturity and self-awareness to achieve the desired results.

This book does not teach you about vocalising or their techniques. What it does is that it teaches you how to interpret the song through the lyric, the music, phrasing, and most of all, the subtext in your mind!

Having been a professional performer for more than a decade now, re-reading the entire book has been mindblowing, as it reaffirms and reintroduces me to the lessons that Experience has taught me. Oftentimes, I didn't even know that I possessed that piece of knowledge, until Craig puts it to the class in his always eloquent and witty way. He really does have a very persuasive way of luring the "real" you out, so we can all hear and watch YOU perform a song, and not the guy you are hiding behind. Singing becomes a much greater joy then, both for the singer and the audience, I promise you!

A must-read for singers and especially for actors wanting to get into musicals.

David Craig breaks down the sometimes overwhelming task/joy of performing songs into manageable chunks. His analysis of songs at the beginning of the book is priceless. After determining the Who-what why-when-where-how facts, the singer is guided through creating a subtext that personalizes and animates the performance, making it truly something worth watching/hearing. Highly recommended to singers of all genres, although Mr. Craig's focus is on musical theater. Answers the eternal question, "is this song (trip) necessary?" with a resounding "YES!"

This short, concise book gives a clear and easily understood history of the interpretation of Scripture. The author examines the way the Bible has traditonally been interpreted and then shows how these historical approaches have contributed to our contemporary understanding. While this book may be of particular interest to clergy, teachers, preachers and students, it is free of specialized theological and exegetical terminology and is a valuable resource for anyone who reads the Bible. Highly recommended

Robert Grant (emeritus, U. Chicago) and David Tracy (U. Chicago) have come together in this small book to give perhaps the finest concise history of biblical interpretation that you can find for the money ... Yes, it leaves out some theologians and interpreters, maybe your favorite ones, but the book is not meant to be exhaustive. Nevertheless it almost manages even this, since I cannot think of someone you NEED to know about that you won't have studied after having read this little tome. There is a very nice biblography, a good index (includeing references in the notes as well), though no scriptural index. This is not a real problem, however, since this is not a book of exegesis per se, but the history of exegetical problems and traditions.

The book is divided into two parts, historical and theological. That may not be an exact divide in a book on biblical interpretations, but it serves. Grant writes part one, and manages to give a good overview of all (and excellent investigation of others) of the various readings of the text, Old and New. In 150 pages of non-technical language, Grant leads the reader from Jesus and first-century Jewish readings of the Bible, and the development of Christian texts into a "testament," all the way to modern (20th century) Protestant ways of reading, without leaving out anyone who figures largely or less-largely in the history of interpretation. Quite a feat, but he is successful, at least within the scope that this book sets for itself. It is not for the specialist, but the specialist can certainly benefit from it as a reference book and quick look-up tool (and who doesn't need that from time to time?) David Tracy's contribution is part two, a theological and hermeneutical look at biblical interpretation, interpretaiton theory, critical theory, and prospects for the future. As in Grant's earlier chapters, Tracy gives just enough information to be helpful, but not enough to be daunting.

With a top scholar in biblical studies and a top scholar in theological studies coming together in this book, it makes it a volume hard to avoid owning, especially for the student or educated layman. Here is a suggestion, as a matter of fact: this would be an excellent adult study book for churches--pastors and vestries take note! If you are in the position to need a history of how the biblical texts have developed and been interpreted (the multifariousness of interpretations might well shock you), this is a great little book to own. I highly recommend it without reservation.

Truly a work of great scholarship. In some occasions, the discussions were beyond my comprehension level. This book is certainly not meant for the new Christian or even for the intermediate Christian. The theological and philosophical depth of this book can certainly cause some to be "left behind."

Therefore, as a pro and as a con, the level of intellectualism of this book serves it as both a blessing and bane.

The reader can also sense immediately from the start of the book and to the end of the book the authors' moderate viewpoint concerning the authority of Scripture. As presented in pages 3, 104, 129 and 176 (from cover-to-cover), both authors view that Scripture is the "record of God's revelation," and David Tracy adds further on p.176 that, "Christianity considers the Scriptures not the revelation itself but the original witness to the revelation." This moderate view of Scripture devalues the authority of God's word as His sole special revelation of Jesus Christ.

Both authors write their works well, except they both fail to explain why the Bible is merely a "record of God's revelation" and not IS "God's revelation," but brushes their liberal view with an absolute statement that "all Christianity considers it this way," when in fact Conservative Christianity DOES NOT support this view.

A SHORT HISTORY OF THE INTERPRETATION OF THE BIBLE, written by Robert M. Grant and published in 1963 and later revised with David Tracy is the standard history of the different ways in which the Bible has been interpreted since the days of the early Church to the mid to late twentieth century. Beginning with how Jesus and New Testament authors used the Hebrew Scriptures, the book continues with the different ways patristic authors, medieval and Renaissance authors, and finally modern authors interpret scripture. What we see is that there was never one way to interpret scripture, which shows how scripture is a continuous living and thriving set of writings. I have found the book helpful not only in understanding scripture, but also theology itself. Scripture is the basis of theology, and understanding the differences between Alexandrian interpretations and the interpretation of scriptures of writers associated with Antioch, the differences between Catholic, Lutheran, and Calvinist interpretations, and how modern scholars see scripture gives insight into theological thought. More often than not, theologians are not biblical scholars, and basing thought in scripture is not their forte. The Grant and Tracy text is a great help with clarification and for me brings together the connection between theology and the Bible.

After studying theology and scripture, I have returned to this text for Bible study preparation and preaching. From time to time I will look at various texts and how they have been interpreted through the centuries, which if done well can make scripture study vibrant. Of course the key is when it is done well, but that's another story.

Needless to say this text is indispensable for anyone studying scripture. Most exegesis looks not only at the text but also the ways it has been interpreted over the centuries. This book gives an overview that will make historical exegetical work easier. If this is not a required text for theological study, I would advise people who wish to study scripture or theology to buy this readable and valuable volume. It will undoubtedly answer questions that will arise. I only have one caution and it's not about the book but the binding. I have owned two copies of this book. The first I purchased in the seminary and before long the pages fell out due to poor binding. The same is happening with the second. This should not prevent a person from buying the book, but it is a warning that it may not be as well as it could be.

The man who wrote this is my uncle and this book brings tears to my eyes and it's beautiful. I reccomend it to everyone!

This is one of the best books I have ever read...not only was it based it my hometown and I know some of these people, but it gives you the kind of compassion not ordinarily given to someone you've never met. I hope this book has been an inspiration to reach out to those with AIDS, or for that matter, anyone with a physical problem that needs someone to be there when no one else will.

This book was the most painful reading experience I have ever encountered! David was a remarkable person. His life and death will move you beyond belief. It will rip your heart out, and at the same time, teach you volumes about life, loving, friendship and death.

The reason I bought this book is because I've long been a fan of the Phantom via its comic strip even since I could remember. I have to admit that I've been hooked to the Phantom as far as I know, and couldn't get enough of him! Oh, WOW!! I also hope to obtain more novels of the 'Ghost Who Walks'!!

As a dyed in the (purple) wool Phantom fan, any collection of NEW Phantom prose is welcome. The quality of the 17 stories easily matches the comic book series published by Moonstone.

With a forward by Valerie Falk, contributions from Phantom scholars Ed Rhoades (consultant/artist/author), Will Murray (Doc Savage/Shadow) and accomplished authors David Michelinie, Mike Bullock, , C J Henderson, Ron Fortier, and Craig Shaw Gardner, the variety is outstanding. Disney artist extraordinaire Ruben Procopio's art is a good addition to the tales.

It's hard to pick out a favorite, but many capture the spirit of the Phantom very succinctly.

Can't wait for the 2nd volume.

Tim Lasiuta
www.moonstonebooks.com

These stories are bringing The Phantom back to life and doing it very well. There is one story I found to be a long stretch, but I'm not reviewing stories, but a volume of stories. In this volume the Deep Woods call, The Ghost Who Walks remains undying, justice prevails over the darkness of the world, and even when The Phantom seems helpless, he is just about ready to make his next move. A must for any Phantom fan! Quoth the Raven...

for 1-886508-28-3 and for 1-886508-10-0 : They are NO LONGER SHOWING, UNDER THE PUBLSISHERS REVIEWS/COMMENTS, as they did previously! What's happening?

Wow - its like condensed orange juice! Clearly explains the how, what, why of healing. The chapter and chart on Price versus Value of supplements was the clearest and easiest explanation in a few short pages, that I've ever read. The doctors and pharmacists involved in writing it, deserve applause - first time I got the whole picture, along with clear and easy to understand information about everything from herbs to vitamins, flower remedies and everything in between. Dr. Pettles one page description on his natural menopausal hormone replecment therapy and natural choices versus the drug approach, made getting the book worth every cent! I copied the page for a friend, who ended up getting the book and showing it to her doctor. She said it was so simple and clear, her doctor stopped trying to push the drugs and gave her a prescription for Dr Pettles natural hormone replacement therapy - on top of that its working for her. Not since I read Mindells Vitamin Bible, have I read such a clear, information packed book! A must have for anyone interested in natural remedies and supplements - fanstastic value for the money. Incidently, I am NOT related to the authors.

The original book by J. Grant Howard was a text book at Bible college. This book influenced my perspective of priorities.

I grew up hearing about the heirarchial approach of priorities. For example, God is first, then your spouse, then children/parents, then job, etc. But do we spend over 40 hours a week serving God, with our spouse, and with our children? It looks great on paper but is impossible to live out consistently.

Howard proposes a different model. God is the central priority. Then, there are the other various priorities all connected to God. Thus, there may be times when one priority becomes more important than others, but each area of our life is under God's authority.

J. Grant Howard gives an incredible amount of wisdom for those of us who sometimes struggle with our priorities. I often hear people say if there is one struggle they have in life it's with priorities. If you struggle with finding what relationships or "items" in your life need the most attention, then this book is for you. Howard shares from experience. From being a pastor, a dad, a seminary professor, and a man who loves the Lord, this book shares from the heart of someone who has lived out what he is writing. Because of this, this book is transparent and gives hope to those who live in the "tyranny of the urgent".

Newly revised and updated in a 2001 edition, The Foundation Center's Guide To Grantseeking On The Web is a massive, authoritative, all-encompassing reference, sporting 700+ pages densely packed with valuable information. Half of the volume is dedicated to teaching readers about how to take advantage of corporate giving information on the Web, and the second half lists countless foundations and charities on the Web that accept applications for grants and donations. Black-and-white illustrations of web sites and the like round out this unique and exceptional reference, which is a "must" for any grant-seeker in today's modern, technology-driven world.

Compiled and edited by Kief Schladweiler, The Foundation Center's Guide To Grantseeking On The Web 2003 Edition is a massively extensive, 852-page resource of 3,00 grantmaker websites, and offers up a wealth of information concerning corporate grantmaking, searchable databases, government funding sources, online journals and newsletters, guidance for seeking individual donors online, and so much more. A thoroughly accessible guidebook enhanced with screenshots, illustrations, and explicit instructions, The Foundation Center's Guide To Grantseeking On The Web 2003 Edition is justifiably a very highly recommended reference for both amateur and professional grant-seekers.

I'll take a look at David Bastian's coverage of the Union canal across De Soto point, which was built with the intent to bypass Vicksburg and make taking the city unnecessary for the control of the Mississippi River. As most students of Grant's Vicksburg Campaign already know, Grant's Canal ultimately failed during the war, although the Mississippi did change course in the 1870's, showing that what Grant wanted to accomplish was possible. Bastian is well-suited to write this book, as he is a Civil Engineer and a Canal specialist with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Bastian, with his knowledge of Hydraulics, concludes that had the canal been dug to a depth of 11 feet and a width of 60 feet, the strength of the current would have eroded a permanent channel. Though the River later changed its banks, it did not use Grant's Canal to do so. It is an ironic footnote that Grant was President at the time of the River's change.

I enjoyed this short retelling of the efforts to dig a canal across the base of De Soto Point. The author writes in an engaging style and is as qualified as anyone to write this piece. The maps are numerous and give the reader a clear idea of what the Union troops were trying to do. I also managed to pick up a signed copy of the book, much to my delight. Although this is not the only monograph covering Grant's Canal (both Bearss' monumental 3-volume work on Vicksburg and a BGES pamphlet also do so to some extent), I would recommend picking this one up. Anyone interested in the Vicksburg Campaign or the war in the west should own a copy. 88 pp., 14 maps

With the strongly defended city of Vicksburg refusing to bend to the pressures of Federal forces, especially Farragut's naval armada on the Mississippi River, an engineering enterprise was attempted with the building of a canal across the neck of the De Soto Peninsular, which would cut the city off from the river. Farragut would thus be able to bypass Vicksburg while placing the river in Union hands. David Bastian tells the story of this canal - its planning, digging (all by hand, most of it by Illinois and Ohio regiments, aided by confiscated slaves), and its ultimate failure (due mainly to it not being wide or deep enough). With the failure of the canal, the siege of Vicksburg set in.

Short and to the point, Bastian's account of Grant's Canal is a welcome addition to the literature detailing the activities around Vicksburg in 1862-63. Heavily illustrated, it also contains numerous maps and regimental summary reports of casualties caused by disease (by the end of the Vicksburg campaign only 37% of enlisted men were fit for duty). Recommended.

Chaco Canyon is in the middle of nowhere, a unexceptional canyon in the New Mexico desert where nobody in his right mind would try to make a living. All the more amazing is that this barren place was the center of the Anasazi civilization. The Great House of Pueblo Bonito is the largest pre-historic building north of Mexico, counting 800 rooms and constructed about 1,000 years ago.

Chaco is mysterious and this book of seventeen essays by authorities in several fields explores those mysteries. One is given the point of view of the scholars as well as representatives of the Pueblo, Hopi, and the Navajo Indians. Good charts, maps, and photos, some in color, support the text. Perhaps the most interesting of all the mysteries is how the Anasazi fed themselves in this unpromising environment and a brief sidebar talks about Chaco agriculture -- although not enough.

The most interesting essay in the book is titled "The Chaco Navajos" and is about the coming of the Navajos, the Spaniards, and the Anglos to Chaco Canyon long after the Anasazi had disappeared. Included is a brief account of pioneer archaeologist, Richard Wetherill, killed in a gunfight with a Navajo in 1910. "Richard Wetherill Anasazi" by Frank McNitt is a fine biography of Wetherill, a character worthy of legend.

"In Search of Chaco" is an attractive, up-to-date look at current theories and thinking about Chaco. One suspects there's a lot more to learn. One quibble: I despise the politically correct term "Ancestral Pueblo" used by the scholars for the people who built Chaco. The old and romantic name, "Anasazi," is far preferable.

Smallchief

Chaco Canyon is in the middle of nowhere, a unexceptional canyon in the New Mexico desert where nobody in his right mind would try to make a living. All the more amazing is that this barren place was the center of the Anasazi civilization. The Great House of Pueblo Bonito is the largest pre-historic building north of Mexico, counting 800 rooms and constructed about 1,000 years ago.

Chaco is mysterious and this book of seventeen essays by authorities in several fields explores those mysteries. One is given the point of view of the scholars as well as representatives of the Pueblo, Hopi, and the Navajo Indians. Good charts, maps, and photos, some in color, support the text. Perhaps the most interesting of all the mysteries is how the Anasazi fed themselves in this unpromising environment and a brief sidebar talks about Chaco agriculture -- although not enough.

The most interesting essay in the book is titled "The Chaco Navajos" and is about the coming of the Navajos, the Spaniards, and the Anglos to Chaco Canyon long after the Anasazi had disappeared. Included is a brief account of pioneer archaeologist, Richard Wetherill, killed in a gunfight with a Navajo in 1910. "Richard Wetherill Anasazi" by Frank McNitt is a fine biography of Wetherill, a character worthy of legend.

"In Search of Chaco" is an attractive, up-to-date look at current theories and thinking about Chaco. One suspects there's a lot more to learn. One quibble: I despise the politically correct term "Ancestral Pueblo" used by the scholars for the people who built Chaco. The old and romantic name, "Anasazi," is far preferable.

Smallchief