Messengers of the Wind: Native American Women Tell Their Life Stories

By Jane B. Katz

Book Overview

"Messengers of the Wind goes beyond the autobiographies of everyday women. These are women who have long been an invisible part of American culture. Their stories are haunting, frightening, encouraging, and courageous. . . . Katz is a faithful guide." --The Minnesota Daily In Messengers of the Wind, Native American women, old and young, from a variety of tribal groups, speak with eloquence and passion about their experience on the land and in urban areas; about their work as artists, activists, and healers; as grandmothers, mothers, and daughters; as modern women with a link to the past. And as each woman, renowned and obscure, tells her remarkable personal story, it is clear that each has tapped into the power that comes from within and has reached back into a history that brings with it courage and hope. " 'Giving energy to Mother Earth' -- Yes. That is our duty as women, as Natives, and as human beings. Messengers of the Wind is a way of doing just that. It is not a dance, feet patting our mother, but it is an offering, the voices of the women sent to comfort her. Thank-you, Jane Katz, for your offering. It is a special and much-needed gift." --Paula Gunn Allen Author of Voice of the Turtle "COMPELLING. . . INTIMATE." --The Cleveland Plain Dealer "A RICH COLLECTION OF PERSONAL STORIES. . .REWARDING. . . These are powerful women with important stories to tell." --Kirkus Reviews

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0345402855
• ISBN13: 9780345402851
• Release Date: March 1996
• Publisher: Random House Publishing Group
• Length: 336 Pages
• Weight: 0.73 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 5.7" x 8.7"

Customer Reviews

Fabulous Insight! into Native America Culture and Feelings!

This books truly shows identifies the disconnect between the Indians and culture of the Americans who took everything from them. Great insight into the perspective by American Native women. Retells the history of the Native Americans and their struggle to find a place of their own (one that American's had not already taken). Wonderful historical information and references at the end of each chapter. A true recollection of what happen throughout the United States during a difficult time in history and it continues today through sterotyping and prejudice. Very good reading. I couldn't put it down.

Best book on social action that I have read.

Felt like I knew these Native American Women as I read their stories. Must admit I needed a box of kleenex handy. They told of their experiences and each personal story told of their strength and choices they made and their past history. How they had survived tore at your heartstrings. Another plus was that a photo was included for most of the women. Each story was special and I learned so much about Native American Women by reading this book. Sometimes their words seemed so powerful you would quit reading and think about that woman's remarks before reading more. Highly recommend this book.