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A review by quackthump
Everything You Wanted to Know about Indians But Were Afraid to Ask by Anton Treuer
5.0
I purchased this book so that I could better understand the experiences of others--in this instance, those of Indians. The book is in a question/answer format with a clear table of contents listing the questions, a well-organized index, citations, and an introductory list of resources for further learning. While I found many of the answers informative, as the author acknowledges, you cannot expect them to be exhaustive. I found myself several times wanting more detail, but I understand that, in part, is the purpose of the book. It is a starting point, an introduction.
I would recommend it to others who are likewise seeking to become better educated about experiences outside themselves. (Really, I would recommend it to any reader, but I realize the attitude with which you approach a book or topic often affects your willingness to absorb it, and those who have not questioned their own behavior may find this book's answers droll or redundant).
Perhaps what stands out to me greatest from the book (aside from white guilt, which I will address momentarily), is the need for school curriculum to be inclusive. It makes me even consider that maybe this a meaningful direction in which my career could take me--developing educational content that helps underserved students see themselves and privileged students better understand those around them.
In regard to white guilt--the shame that I feel for my ignorance of the breadth and depth of issues affecting Indians and for the despicable ways the U.S. government and so many of its constituents have acted without repentance-- I cite the author: "The critical challenge of all the troubling history in our country is to turn guilt and anger into positive action" (p. 150).
I have to consider what forms my action will take. Certainly, it will continue to be the reading, support, and recommendation of diverse authors and stories, but beyond that? I hope in the years to come I will be able to point out clear actions and stands I have taken.
I would recommend it to others who are likewise seeking to become better educated about experiences outside themselves. (Really, I would recommend it to any reader, but I realize the attitude with which you approach a book or topic often affects your willingness to absorb it, and those who have not questioned their own behavior may find this book's answers droll or redundant).
Perhaps what stands out to me greatest from the book (aside from white guilt, which I will address momentarily), is the need for school curriculum to be inclusive. It makes me even consider that maybe this a meaningful direction in which my career could take me--developing educational content that helps underserved students see themselves and privileged students better understand those around them.
In regard to white guilt--the shame that I feel for my ignorance of the breadth and depth of issues affecting Indians and for the despicable ways the U.S. government and so many of its constituents have acted without repentance-- I cite the author: "The critical challenge of all the troubling history in our country is to turn guilt and anger into positive action" (p. 150).
I have to consider what forms my action will take. Certainly, it will continue to be the reading, support, and recommendation of diverse authors and stories, but beyond that? I hope in the years to come I will be able to point out clear actions and stands I have taken.