the Mishomis Book

The Mishomis Book: The Voice of the Ojibway
by Edward Benton-Banai

Mishomis is the Ojibway word for grandfather. This is one of those very rare books that makes you feel as though you are listening to a wise elder. Includes the creation story, the origin of sacred plants, and a wealth of information on Native values and culture.

Edward Benton Banai is the Ojibway teacher and spiritual leader who founded the Red School House, an alternative school for Native students in St. Paul, Minnesota. His goal in writing The Mishomis Book was to provide students with an accurate account of Ojibway culture, history, and worldview based on the oral teachings.

This book begins with the Ojibway creation story and how first man came to earth. The fifteen chapters cover the traditional teachings about the acquisition of fire and tools, the creation and meaning of the clan system, the migration of the Ojibway people from the Atlantic Coast to their present locations in Canada and the United States.

The final chapter describes more resent history. Throughout the book, the author includes the use of Ojibway words and their meanings, as well as helpful maps and illustrations. Other major topics covered include the four directions, the pipe, the Midewiwin and Sweat Lodge, the Seven Fires prophesy, and the Seven Grandfathers Teaching, values and beliefs, and the role of Elders.