Yellowtail, Crow Medicine Man and Sun Dance Chief: An Autobiography

Yellowtail, born in 1903, is among the last of his generation of Native Americans. A medicine man (high priest) of the top rank, he views himself as a link between traditional indigenous spirituality and the tribulations of Native Americans under white society's thumb. Yellowtail believes his people must either return to their ethnic religions or face destruction by the white man's unreflective lifestyle. Here, as told to Indiana attorney Fitzgerald, who was adopted by the Crow in 1972, Yellowtail describes his experiences in the rigorous Sun Dance religion and details important ceremonies. While authentic and conveying the character of Yellowtail's spoken voice, the story is often repetitive. Illustrations. (May)