American Indians: Stereotypes and Realities

"Devon Mihesuah has provided precious insight into the racial identity and cultural struggles of American Indians as they strive to succeed in modern America. She has successfully challenged harmful stereotypes and racism in this significant book… If an accurate history is to be learned, then society must accept the truth of cultural pluralism and give equal and fair treatment to Native Americans and other minorities. This book is timely as a new wave of interest from the media and sports world mock Native Americans and continue to exploit our past. As an American Indian and a university scholar of history, I applaud Devon Mihesuah for successfully confronting the literature of false portrayal and negative images of Indian people." - Dr. Donald L. Fixico, Professor of History

"A good sourcebook for dispelling misconceptions and negative stereotypes about American Indians. These beliefs and attitudes exist and these statements are made in academic settings. It is fortunate that there are professors like Devon Mihesuah in classrooms to present the "other side," perhaps only once in the lifetime of some students…" -Dr. Karen Swisher

"A very useful book for clarifying many misbeliefs about Indians that Indians encounter from among the non-Indian population. Devon. Mihesuah demonstrates considerable understanding of contemporary myths and stereotypes about American Indians. This book will be a very useful reader for anyone truly trying to understand who American Indians really are. There is no other book on Indian images that provides the Indian "voice" that Devon maintains throughout the text." -Dr. Duane Champagne, Director

"Amusing and a helpful guide to general readers not that familiar with the national Indian community… The suggested readings are appropriate and the general style of presentation straight­forward and accessible." -Dr. Terry P. Wilson

"Devon Mihesuah is one of the most gifted Native American scholars in the country today." -Robert A. Williams, Jr., Professor of Law  University of Arizona, Tucson

"This is a small but important book which, like all important books, makes us uncomfortable because it makes us question our assumptions. It may make you squirm in your chair while you read it, but this book should be read by every educator and included in collections of every school and university library."–Flagstaff Live!

"Professor Mihesuah goes beyond simply providing responses to common stereotypes. She provides the reader with assistance in efforts to improve understanding of her peoples. Each of the chapters provides solid information to challenge myths and stereotypes. Excellent photographs are interspersed throughout the book…. The implications of this book for social work practice are extensive… A valuable contribution" -Journal of Multicultural Social Work