Those who know Wallace Black Elk personally know that Bill Lyons captures the flavor of Grandfather's humor, the deeper teachings that lay behind the words, as well as the pain and difficulties that have gone into making access to the Spirit available to all. When you read this book, you'll know why the early government and Christian religions wanted to stop the Indian practices - they're real, and you'll be glad for the triumph of these sacred teachings. Like his predecessor, Nicholas Black Elk, Wallace Black Elk's vision goes beyond the borders of race to encompass all beings, so that once again, the great hoop may be whole. For Indian peoples who have lost contact with spiritual origins, whatever they may be, this book can be a powerful reclamation of the Spirit. For all people who have been searching for the something that has been missing, you will find it in Black Elk: The Sacred Ways of a Lakota. This book and others detailing the shamanic practices of our ancient Indian cultures are a real coup for the American Indian: in spreading the teachings, these courageous men and women have transformed the children of the enemy into friends and allies. The whole world benefits.