Two Ravens: The Life and Teachings of a Spiritual Warrior

by Louis Two Ravens Irwin, Robert Liebert

This is the story of a remarkable Native American who through his own life struggles learned to unite the paths of warrior and healer. Two Ravens was taught the traditional healing ways of his Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arickara people by his grandfather, knowledge which served him well in his dealings with the hostile white society he later encountered. After years of rampant discrimination and racism, he became a warrior in the fight for the rights of his people He joined the efforts of Leonard Peltier, Leonard Crow Dog, Frank Clearwater, and many other prominent leaders to ensure that his people might live in peace and with respect. But the constant battles often left Two Ravens censured both by fellow Native Americans who supported a more conservative political agenda and white law enforcement agencies who considered him an outlaw. Pulled between different worlds, he struggled against alcoholism and despair. It was only when he returned to his grandfather's teachings that he discovered a way to join the paths of the warrior and the healer. In the years before his death, Two Ravens worked as a substance abuse counselor and spiritual advisor, helping others integrate Native American traditions into their lives in contemporary America.
Offers personal insights from a Native American who worked with the American Indian Movement from its inception

Genres: Native American

176 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Jjean · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I selected this book, I didn't know it was a true story. Well written about his life and the struggles of the American Indians - Interesting, but very hard life - the inside thoughts and feelings about the "White Man" - how they came to peace with themselves about the they were treated. Reveals many lessons. Worth reading if interested in true history.

[Bev · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is possible to overcome addiction. This was one of the first books I read that helped me realize the powerful movement of change sweeping across Native America. I personally know both the author and the family of Louie Two Ravens.

[Lynn Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Memoir of Louis Two Ravens Irwin (1933-1995) covers a transitional period in Native American history. His process of healing self led to a life of helping others, healing addictions through a sharing of the original ways.

[Robin Eseny · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heart-felt firt-person story of Native American warrior and healer, dealing with his demons from his People's way of life suppression, being a Korean war veterand and alcoholism.