Return to Laughter : An Anthropological Novel

Rating:
Summary: Another book I push at my friends!
Review: A young anthropologist is confronted with a quagmire ethical and moral ambiguity as ideals and unconscious assumptions meet the reality of living within a human community. Witch trials and a smallpox epidemic provide a dramatic context for problems familiar to anyone living among strangers, whether in the next town or the next continent. Along the way, Return to Laughter also serves as an engaging, impressionistic, ethnography. In fact, I'm amazed at how many different layers of book Smith Bowen has squeezed into such a quick read.

Rating:
Summary: Another book I push at my friends!
Review: A young anthropologist is confronted with a quagmire ethical and moral ambiguity as ideals and unconscious assumptions meet the reality of living within a human community. Witch trials and a smallpox epidemic provide a dramatic context for problems familiar to anyone living among strangers, whether in the next town or the next continent. Along the way, Return to Laughter also serves as an engaging, impressionistic, ethnography. In fact, I'm amazed at how many different layers of book Smith Bowen has squeezed into such a quick read.

Rating:
Summary: Great for the traveler!
Review: Although the politically correct and socially aware reader may be inclined to huff and puff a little bit over this anthropological journey through Africa, it is neccessary to take into account the actual year that this book was first written. Aside from a few "dated" remarks, this book provides a tender glimpse into the field work of an anthropologist. I think this a great book for those who travel extensively. It really depicts the frustration and loss of pride that come with trying to adjust to another way of life.

Rating:
Summary: Honest and enjoyable
Review: An enjoyable book by an American anthropologist in a small Nigerian village. Honestly portrays life in a foreign culture and successfully probes the relationship between culture, individuality, and community.

Rating:
Summary: Honest and enjoyable
Review: An enjoyable book by an American anthropologist in a small Nigerian village. Honestly portrays life in a foreign culture and successfully probes the relationship between culture, individuality, and community.

Rating:
Summary: One Fantastic Read!!!
Review: I read this for a cultural anthropology class last year, 2000. My class had more than 350 students in it and I don't know of anyone who didn't enjoy it. It's not a gripping novel, it's just an excellent source for seeing how an anthropologist works, understanding other cultures, and drawing conclusions about life and the world around you. It is a definite read if you're interested in anthropology or ever thought, "Anthropology? What the heck is that?" This book will tell you all and more. Get it!!