Native American Women: A Biographical Dictionary »

This A-Z reference contains 275 biographical entries on Native American women, past and present, from many different walks of life. Written by more than 70 contributors, most of whom are leading American Indian historians, the entries examine the complex and diverse roles of Native American women in contemporary and traditional cultures. This new edition contains 32 new entries and updated end-of-article bibliographies. Appendices list entries by area of woman's specialization, state of birth, and tribe; also includes photos and a comprehensive index.

Library Journal

Previously published by Garland in 1993, this biographical dictionary includes new entries and an updated bibliography for nearly 250 Native American women born between 1499 and 1965. More than 85 contributors researched tribes ranging from Abenaki to Zuni, with a preponderance of entries related to Cherokee and Sioux women. Alphabetically arranged by surname or the first word of a native name, this well-organized work features familiar historical figures (e.g., Pocahontas, Sacagawea, Woman Chief) and lesser-known contemporary women (e.g., medical illustrator Bonita Wa Wa Calachaw Nunez, linguist and MacArthur fellow Ofelia Zepeda, librarian and author Velma S. Salabiye, activist Shirley Hill Witt). Typical entries are concise and well referenced, with occasional high-quality illustrations. Appendixes organize names by decade of birth, state/province of birth, tribal affiliation, and primary areas of specialization, from activism to medicine to storytelling. The index is organized alphabetically by name, tribe, and related subject (e.g., Lewis and Clark expedition). Even libraries that already own A to Z of Native American Women (LJ 8/98) may wish to purchase this newer work because it features many more women, especially lesser-known contemporary women with interesting stories. Recommended for libraries collecting in women's history and/or Native American studies. Elizabeth Connor, Ross Univ. Sch. of Medicine, Commonwealth of Dominica Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.