The Hold Life Has: Coca and Cultural Identity in an Andean Community (Smithsonian Series in Ethnographic Inquiry, No 12)

Rating:
Summary: A rather intricate look at rustic Andean life and rituals
Review: Allen's work was rather fascinating. She provided an in depth look at the Runa, a small group of townspeople who adhere to customs of ancient Incan and colonial Spanish civilization. She does an especially good job at exploring the role that Coca chewing plays in their society and in determing their identity. Their rituals and customs will fascinate you. Beware, this book is not for the unsophisticated reader. It's a good read, but requires some thought and exploration to truly appreciate it.