Navajo Blessingway Singer: The Autobiography of Frank Mitchell, 1881-1967

by Frank Mitchell and Frank Mitchell

Book Overview

Fascinating life story of an American Indian ceremonial singer. Includes a full account of the Blessingway rite, the central ceremony of traditional Navajo religion, and a wealth of information on Navajo philosophy and religious practice.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0816506116
• ISBN13: 9780816506118
• Release Date: December 1977
• Publisher: University of Arizona Press
• Length: 456 Pages
• Weight: 2.05 lbs.

Customer Reviews

An asset to understanding Native American culture,

this book delves into the detailed life of Frank Mitchell, a Navajo Indian who rose from the depths of the reservation (from the 1800's to around 1970) to greatness through his autobiography. This book demonstrates what the Navajos as a People have gone through, their problems, their joys, their sorrows and their successes through one mans eyes. From working on a railroad in Arizona to later becoming a Judge in the late 1940'-50's, Frank Mitchell was an amazing individual. He overcame all the problems of reservation life achieving his goals through hard work, perseverance, and a strong spirtiual connection with his Creator. Although he had some schooling, Frank was not that literate and had a Navajo interpreter to explain things to the author who mad a successful attempt to show Frank as he was. At times the book became overwhelming in its readings because Frank had a tendency to be redundant and explain things in so many different ways and times when interviewed. Because of that, It has actually taken me months to completely read this book. However, anyone interested in Native American Studies/History will find this book to be an asset to their library. It not only reveals Frank Mitchell's amazing life story but enlightens the reader in understanding the Navajo culture and ways of his People.