Just Too Much of an Indian: Bill Baker, Stalwart in a Fading Culture

by Thomas Vennum

In this rare and insightful book, Thomas Vennum captures the essence of one Ojibwe life. Through memories and letters, Bill Baker comes alive and teaches us what we have almost forgotten the meaning and practice of Ojibwe traditions. The story unfolds in the context of many of the events and movements relevant to Indians in the twentieth century: the boarding school disasters, land allotments, world wars, AIM, the takeover of the Winter dam, the spear-fishing controversy, and the reality of tribal factions. Woven throughout are essential native practices: wild-ricing, sharing the fruits of hunts, naming ceremonies, burials, powwows, and native crafts such as beading and drum making. Especially poignant is the portrayal of reservation iife, the reality of which many Americans cannot or will never see.

406 pages, Paperback

First published August 20, 2008

Reviews

[Lucas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very enjoyable book! This is a very interesting biography of a very interesting and talented man, this is what you're looking for. The book does a great job of telling the story of Ojibwe culture and history through the eyes of Bill Baker, and it presents his story accurately but fairly. I really loved this book!

[Penny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although Vennum raises my ire many times I enjoyed and related to a view of Bill Baker's life. Mi'iw.