Makuna: Portrait of an Amazonian People
The beauty of the Amazon rain forest is evident by just flipping through Diego Samper's spectacular photographs of the flora and fauna (including humans) that inhabit this lush, mysterious land. Arhem spent much time with the Makuna people, a peaceful, craft-driven tribe whose male members weave baskets while the women bake; in fact, many of the Makuna rituals are based on the proliferation of the tribe and fertility. At one point the author goes on a peccary hunt with one of the Makuna and comes face-to-face with a wounded animal; he also participates in tribal ceremonies, all of which are portrayed in colorful, fascinating photos. There is even a "Generation X" problem, as the tradition-bound elders bemoan the embrace of modern weaponry by the young, and there is also the problem of interloping white outsiders who are in the Amazon Basin looking for gold. Arhem's vivid travelogue is a celebration not just of the beauty of the rain forest but also of the proud people who live and work there every day.Joe Collins--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.