Zuni: Selected Writings of Frank Hamilton Cushing

The Creation Myth of the Zuni Pueblo is fascinating to say the least. This book begins with a short preface relating the current location and brief history of the Zuni. The introduction tells us of Frank Hamilton Cushing's life and research among the Zuni. The body of the Work sets forth Editor Barton Wright's versions of the original Myths. Mr. Wright also illustrates the Myths with original and descriptive scratchboard etchings. The original Myths were recorded by Frank Hamilton Cushing in the late 1800's, however, none of Mr. Cushing's particular style of writing is demonstrated in this book. An excellent modern interpretation follows the immediate Myths telling what the myths are describing and how they were formed. Because the Myths were recorded from Zuni Oral Tradition the possibility of misinterpretation is always present.The book also includes two helpful appendices. In the first appendix Mr. Wright gives us a list of the sources of the Myths he has presented. The second appendix is a glossary of Zuni and Hopi names and terms. The Glossary falls short by not including some of the very basic terms and concepts used in the Myths. This might encourage an interested reader to use the bibliography at the end of the book, however, the lack of basic terminology could be frustrating for the casual reader. Although well done, the book is not for someone without a fundamental knowledge of the Southwest Native American history.

This book is an excellent introduction to the incredible work of Frank Hamilton Cushing. For the student of anthropology, it provides the prototype for the development of the science. For those interested in American Indian Culture, it serves as a starting point for serious study. However, it is most successful as a source of inspiration for those seeking a spiritual connection with things natural and ancient.Green's editorial work can be mind numbing, even for those used to reading academic works. This is particularly evident when he rambles on about the significance of Cushing's literary style. However, his comments do contain a wealth of fascinating and useful background information. Despite it's flaws, this is an important academic work.The portions of the book that come directly from Cushing are just the opposite. They provide richly textured and colorful insight into this world that so many know so little about. They do a remarkable job of showing how a culture can develop and use a complex system of spirituality to enable them to cope with the problems of daily existence in a harsh and unforgiving environment. It is a powerful testament to the potential strength of the human spirit. In many ways, it is the best description of what separates man from the animals that I have ever read. It is indeed powerful medicine.The bibliography is excellent, however most of the referenced material is difficult to find.All in all, this book is a worthwhile experience for serious students of anthroplogy, students of the American Indian, students of human nature, or the merely curious.