Published in 1900, Indian Story and Song is a unique piece of American history. It's not a single narrative, but a carefully gathered collection. Alice C. Fletcher, one of the first professional female anthropologists, didn't work from an ivory tower. She lived for extended periods with Plains tribes, notably the Omaha and Pawnee, learning their languages and earning their trust. This book is the result: a written preservation of oral traditions that were, even then, under threat.

The Story

There's no linear plot. Instead, the book is a doorway into different worlds. You'll find the Omaha's story of how humans received the gift of fire. There are hauntingly beautiful song lyrics—love laments, tunes for the grass game, prayers for the morning. Fletcher provides context for each piece, explaining the ceremony or daily life it came from. The "characters" are the figures from these traditions: the clever trickster, the heroic ancestor, the spirit animals. It's a mosaic of belief, humor, struggle, and celebration.

Why You Should Read It

This book does two powerful things. First, it lets these cultural expressions speak for themselves, with a respect that was rare for its time. Second, it quietly highlights the immense loss that came with forced assimilation. Reading a joyful children's song or a profound creation myth, you realize what was at stake. Fletcher's own role is complicated—she was both a preservationist and a product of her era—which adds a layer for modern readers to ponder. The music itself is presented with Western notation, a fascinating and imperfect translation of sound into page.

Final Verdict

Perfect for curious readers who want to go beyond the standard historical narrative. If you're interested in folklore, ethnomusicology, or the real, lived experience of Native American nations at the turn of the 20th century, this is an essential and moving read. It's not always easy—the context is heavy—but it is filled with undeniable humanity and beauty. Think of it as an invitation to listen.