35 pages 1 hour read

Keith H. Basso

Wisdom Sits in Places

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1996

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Wisdom Sits in Places by Keith H. Basso examines the critical role of place-names in the culture and language of the Western Apache through four essays, each featuring different members of the Cibecue community in Arizona. By exploring their traditions of place-making, historical storytelling, "speaking with names," and how these practices contribute to wisdom and social conduct, Basso argues for the importance of understanding cultural worldviews through their connection to the landscape. The book discusses themes of cultural continuity and change, particularly regarding the younger generation's engagement with traditional wisdom practices.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Keith H. Basso's Wisdom Sits in Places has been praised for its insightful exploration of the Western Apache's relationship with their landscape, combining ethnography and narrative eloquence. Readers appreciate its depth and evocative storytelling. However, some critique it for academic density, making it less accessible to general audiences. Overall, the book is a profound cultural study.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Wisdom Sits in Places?

Readers who enjoy Wisdom Sits in Places by Keith H. Basso are often those interested in cultural anthropology, Indigenous studies, and the interplay between language and landscape. Comparable works include Clifford Geertz's The Interpretation of Cultures and Wade Davis's The Wayfinders, focusing on ethnographic narratives and cultural preservation.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Lexile Level

1360L

Book Details

Topics

Anthropology

Themes

Society: Community