THE ZUNI

A scholarly, well-researched account in the Indians of North America series about the Zuni people, lacking only passion and energy. It succeeds in enlightening readers about the Pueblo tribe that has made its home in the American Southwest for more than 10,000 years, building a sophisticated culture of farmers, builders, artisans, and traders. Dispelling the myth that Indians exist only in the American past, Bonvillain presents a portrait of a fascinating and complex civilization whose people fought to preserve its culture and traditions through centuries of conflict, first with the Spanish, then with the US government. The book puts in perspective the Zunis' adaptation to modern technology and their legal campaigns against the government for broken treaty promises. The text is peppered with interesting black-and-white archival photographs and illustrations, as well as a full-color photo essay on contemporary Indian art and artifacts. Sadly, material that should excite and inspire is presented so pedantically that it will defy some readers completely. (map, bibliography, glossary, index) (Nonfiction. 8-12)