Customer Reviews

Valley of Shining Stone: The Story of Abiquiu

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Valley of Shining Stone by Lesley Poling-Kempes is the most complete history of one of the oldest modern day settlements in the United States, Abiquiu, New Mexico, which was also the home of Georgia O'Keeffe. In this well-written historical narrative, the author documents how the complex and rich ethnic fabric of Spanish, Angelo, meso-American natives, and North American natives came together to form a unique culture in the beautiful landscape, but difficult climate of the Chama river valley northwest of Santa Fe. It is a must read for anyone who desires an accurate historical account and cultural understanding of this region.

Robert P. Snow Ph.D

This is the most fascinating history story about the early colonization and settling of Northern New Mexico that I could ever imagine. For me, it was a geneology search for my family roots in New Mexico. I hit pay dirt with this book. Lesley Poling- Kempes wrote with such passion and love for this enchanted land, that I must go there to see for myself the land that my forfather's walked. Each exciting chapter told the history of a cetain time period in history. It told the story through the life experiences of many of the main characters who lived their lives for the love of this land. The reader will get a clear picture of the struggles that besieged the people and nations who, for generations tried to settle this wild land.

I really enjoyed reading this book. I believe the information I learned about my families in Abiquiu was very real. I was not really interested in the stories of the white people who came and took over our lands. I know that has to be told as well, but other than selling books, I would rather have seen a story about todays indigenous people living in abiquiu, a story of the families who remain.