Choctaw-Apache Foodways

This is a very unique book that combines recipes, oral history, and a look at the culture of the Choctaw-Apache tribe to which author Robert Caldwell belongs. An introduction presents a background of the tribe's history in a way that would be of interest to those learning about their own heritage and the general public as well. I appreciated Caldwell's attention to the role of bigger social and economic forces as well as local customs.After that the book is divided into sections devoted to various key ingredients and cooking techniques, both recent and traditional "old time" culinary heritage.I found the conclusion, which focuses on both the individual health and wellness and community-building aspects of food culture, inspiring. I don't know of other "cookbooks" which are as thoughtful about the role of the food they feature.