Customer Reviews

Mentawai Shaman: Keeper of the Rain Forest

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When in Sumatra - Indonesia I read this book, which convinced me to go to Pulau Siberut to see and experience the Mentawai.

Before leaving I was sceptical how much the book really reflected the way that the Mentawai actually live but when I got to Siberut, and experienced these people for myself I realised how true to life the book really is. It doesn't have anything in it that is not accurate, perhaps slightly glossier than reality at times, but not inaccurate.

I took the opportunity to stay with Aman Lao Lao, the Shaman featured in the book who - like all the Mentawai - is a warm, hospitable and often funny guy. They don't wear their dress for show or for photos, but genuinely do dress in the manner shown in the book, although they might have more modern clothes if they need to visit the port or come into contact with officialdom. The Mentawai people are extremely interesting and good natured and I would urge anyone who has any interest in tribal cultures to look at this book as there are very few places where one can see such an unspoiled civilisation, and this book shows with stunning photography how these wonderful people continue to live