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"American Indian Archery is a very readable personalized account of one man's amble through Indian archery, past and present. Laubin's aim is to bring about a revival of 'interest in another nearly forgotten Indian art.' He ranges freely over the history and culture of all the tribes to prove specifically that Indian bows had real power and accuracy, and were perfectly suited to their need. Armed with arrows of uncommon practicality, the Indian hunter proved to be a formidable marksman. . . .Hunting practice, material culture, mythology, social customs and games surrounding bow and arrow use all come into the book at various point."-Journal of Ethnic Studies.
"A methodically researched and interestingly presented work, whose title does not do credit to its contents. There are chapters on comparison of bows, making of bows, making of arrows, and comparisons between Indian and English archery. The illustrations are excellent and in sufficient detail so that one if he wished could make his own bow."-Choice.
"It is evident that the book is a masterpiece on bow-making, especially in its details on sinew-backed and horn bows."-Western American Literature.
About the author
Reginald and Gladys Laubin, his late wife, have devoted their personal and professional lives to the preservation and interpretation of American Indian dance and culture. They are recognized authorities on and performers of Indian dances and ceremonies. In 1972 for their contribution to dance they were presented the Capezio Dance Award, the first ethnic dancers to be honored with this highest award of the dance world. They were presented the Catlin Peace Pipe Award by Red Dawn, Sioux. They are the authors of
The Indian Tipi: Its history, Construction, and Use and American Indian Archery, both published by the University of Oklahoma Press.
Summary
A study of Indian archery, past and present. Exploring the history and culture of all the tribes, the author shows that Indian bows had real power and accuracy and were perfectly suited to their need. There are sections on making bows and arrows and comparisons are made with English archery.
