Customer Reviews

The Walleye War: The Struggle for Ojibwe Spearfishing and Treaty Rights

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Dr. Larry Nesper's 13-year journey with the Lac du Flambeau Indians becomes a thoroughly enjoyable and scholarly example of modern ethnographic work. The book meticulously details all of the issues relevant to Ojibwe spear-fishing and treaty rights as 1) native tradition, 2) cultural conflict (conflict both within the native culture, and between the native population and the State of Wisconsin), 3) inter-cultural legal conflict and controversy, and 4) an example for current dialogues regarding ethnicity and ethnic conflict, ethnic prejudice, and racism. Nesper clearly outlines all pertinent issues of the 25-year "Walleye War" from every angle, and conscientiously works his way through them, all the while carefully explaining different cultural perspectives. Even though Nesper states that he has become friends with many of the native people about whom he writes, he does not let his own feelings of friendship taint the truth. I recommend the book for enthusiasts of native culture, academics (especially those teaching cultural anthropology), and anyone interested in the history of, and current issues regarding, treaty rights and the relationship between native cultures and state or federal government entities.

I loved this book and have lent it out to some co workers who also enjoyed it. If you have an interest in Native Americans, especially from Wisconsin, than get it. Nesper does a great job giving both sides to the troubling story. The story will shock and amaze you.

I must say first that I am in support of tribal rights to fish and hunt according to the treaties that were forced on them in the 19th century. Now the book: When the author writes about or describes places or persons that he observed when visiting northern Wisconsin the writing is good, clear, enjoyable to read, interesting and very informative. The problem is his understanding and descriptions of the history, ceremonies and explanations of treaties. He clearly does not really understand what he is writing about. It's like like reading the side effects warning page of a prescription bottle. When a simple description would be adequate he opts for a confusing and often disjointed list of quotes from other sources.It cannot even be followed by reading and rereading. It is truly disservice to the subject. There were times when I thought that I understood what he is trying to get across but his use of confusing language and juxtaposition of concepts seems to smell of trying to appear intellectual at the cost of clarity.If another source of information on this subject is available, I would suggest checking it out first.I would only recommend this book if nothing else on the subject is available. Tom from Wisconsin