Iroquois People of the longhouse

While a good number of the pictures in this generalized encyclopedic book about the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) are unique and interesting in their own right, there are larger issues with the simplistic information contained in limited chapters. Johnson attempts to streamline and convey several hundred years of cross-cultural communication and conflict in five chapters, with bulleted points of data. Clearly, the materials have been culled from a great number of sources, but the book reads as simple data rehashed with new glossy pictures, and little or no real analysis. The book furthers several assertions that have long fallen out of favor in modern academic sources and courses. A major source of contention will likely be the inclusion, photographs, and display of sacred masks of the Haudenosaunee. William N. Fenton stirred up the original controversy by presenting and publishing work on the sacred masks (often referenced as False Faces) utilized in healing societies of the Haudenosaunee, and Johnson's work may stir up more controversy as well. On the whole, the pictures are interesting, but the information is problematic. May be best suited for young, curious readers, if anyone at all. Summing Up: Not recommended. K. J. White SUNY Oswego

An introductory work, this examines the history and culture of the Iroquois Confederacy, a nation that survives to the present. In its day, a significant power, able to sweep aside like so much chaff less powerful groups such as the Neutrals and Eries in the 17th century, the Confederacy dominated its Huron neighbors. Less fortunate in the face of European diseases and the growing numbers of settler colonies, and the victim of ill-fated alliances, the League of Peace and Power nevertheless commands respect. The book covers the history of the Confederacy, as well as its culture, goods and some significant figures in Iroquois history. Johnson, who has researched aboriginal peoples in North America for more than 30 years and wrote The Encyclopedia of Native Tribes of North America, has assembled a lavishly illustrated text. Unfortunately, the emphasis on visual material combined with the brevity of the work means the work can provide only a tantalizing overview of a history that stretches over at least five centuries. This coffee-table book, which includes many beautiful photos of Iroquois masks, clothing and beadwork, is suitable for the casual reader or curious grade-schoolers but readers interested in an in-depth discussion of the Haudenosaunee needs must look elsewhere. (Sept.) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.