Open Wounds A Native American Heritage

Aleksandra Ziolkowska-Boehm s book portrays the current status and outlook of the American Indians. Resulting from 10 years of research and visits to Indian lands, the book was inspired by the writer s great uncle Korczak Ziolkowski , sculptor of the Crazy Horse mountain carving in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The author provides a broad spectrum of Indian history, culture, traditions, subjugation, suffering, reservation poverty, failed government policies, education, emergence and the portent of a future of well-deserved dignity, respect and beginning signs of success. Personal interviews with members of the Apache, Chickasaw, Kiowa and Northern Cheyenne Nations add a potent insight into Indian feelings and opinions. Clearly evident throughout the book is Ziolkowska-Boehm s admiration and esteem for American Indians, particularly for the pride they exhibit after suffering a heritage of open wounds over many years.