My last critique of this book looks harsh to me now. While it is true that this isn't a who done it, it does raise awareness. The only words I still agree with from my last review after a year of contemplation is.....The (only-NOT ONLY) good thing I find about this book is that it does get Anna Mae's name out and about and on people's minds. The book is not a who done it. -- The writing style no longer seems to be so crystal mystic'y', it has a flow of its own. I recommend this book as a source of background information regarding some of the details surrounding the life of Annie Mae. Jennifer

This book begins with a five page list of AIM casualites that occured on Pine Ridge Reservation between the years of 1973-1976. As the author points out, these are "documented homicides"-the actual number could be as high as 300 or more. One of the documented homicides is Annie Mae Pictou, a 30 year old AIM leader and mother of 2 small daughters. Claypoole's book is a passionate investigation of her life in the various genres of poetry, journalistic writing, and interviews of people who knew Annie Mae, but are reluctant (to this day) to speak any truth regarding her life, and death...she was found in a ravine on the edge of Pine Ridge Res, February 24, 1975 with a bullet wound in the base of her skull. As part of the autopsy, her hands were severed at the wrist and sent to Washington, D.C...she was then buried as "Jane Doe", cause of death listed as "exposure".Urged by Canadian family members, the body was later exhumed, revealing the execution-style death, and identified as Anna Mae Pictou...in the words of Anna Mae Pictou: "I am a part of this creation as you are, no more and no less than each of you within the sound of my voice. I have a right to continue my cycle in this Universe undisturbed." This book speaks for Anna Mae Pictou's fierce desire to exist with the dignity of a free human being among other free human beings. THIS BOOK IS HER HANDS.

This book is filled with passion and insight; they ooze from thepages....Knowing the author and knowing the book, I can state that there is honesty in each line. Integrity in each concept. Read the book. Experience the heart.