A Recognition of Being: Reconstructing Native Womanhood

The book made me think, and any book that can do that, is worth reading. It made me think of being a woman, of being a auntie and a grandmother and the responsibility that holds. It made me appreciate the hardships all Native people had to go through while in the residential schools, and how, in the name of a God and the attitude of assimilation, people were put into such abusive situations. And it made me appreciate the strength that Native women have to overcome such behaviour.I am not Native, yet I follow the spiritual concepts that were mentioned in the book and it was wonderful to read the history of these traditions and get a better understanding of the traditions.

I am not Native, this book is directed at the recovery of Native American Women, but I thought this book was incredible. I bought an extra copy to pass on. Kim you are awesome, Thank You (Meegwetch)

One of the more refreshing aspects of this unique look at women's historical roles in First Nations cultures is it's comprehensive and insightful understanding of the concept of gender balance. Kim Anderson has well illustrated the social structures which adequately served First Nations people across the Americas for centuries prior to European arrival. In addition, she examines the impact of colonialism, genocide and assimilation on that structure without ignoring or minimizing the undermining of women's roles which was crucial to the success of these policies. She finishes by portraying a hopeful and positive perspective which incorporates the lessons of history.