The Falling Sky: Words of a Yanomami Shaman

The Falling Sky is a now classic account of the life and thought of Davi Kopenawa, shaman, and spokesman for the Yanomami, which paints an unforgettable picture of an indigenous culture living in harmony with the Amazon forest and its creatures. It is a powerful rebuke to the accelerating depredation of the Amazon and other natural treasures threatened by climate change and development.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 648 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2023
Publisher: Harvard University Press

The 10th anniversary edition of "The Falling Sky" has garnered widespread acclaim and recognition. It has been hailed as a "Guardian Best Book about Deforestation," a "New Scientist Best Book of the Year," and a "Taipei Times Best Book of the Year." The book offers a captivating and deeply insightful account of the life and thought of Davi Kopenawa, a shaman and spokesperson for the Yanomami, an indigenous people residing in the Amazon forest. Written in a rich and evocative language, "The Falling Sky" paints an unforgettable picture of an indigenous culture that thrives in harmony with the Amazon forest and its diverse array of creatures.

However, the book's narrative takes a tragic turn when it depicts the devastating encounter between the Yanomami and the global mining industry. Kopenawa vividly recounts his initiation as a shaman and his first-hand experiences with outsiders, including missionaries, cattle ranchers, government officials, and gold prospectors who sought to exploit the Amazon's riches. Through his eyes, the reader witnesses the profound impact of colonialism, greed, and environmental degradation on the Yanomami and their way of life.

"The Falling Sky" is not just a story about the Yanomami; it is also a powerful plea to respect the rights and dignity of indigenous peoples. Kopenawa's first-person articulation of shamanic philosophy provides a rare insight into the world of shamanism and its profound connection to the natural world. He emphasizes the importance of preserving indigenous cultures and their traditional knowledge, which is crucial for addressing the challenges of climate change and development.

The 10th anniversary edition of "The Falling Sky" is a testament to the enduring legacy of this remarkable book. It continues to inspire and educate readers around the world, reminding us of the importance of protecting the environment, respecting indigenous cultures, and working towards a more sustainable and equitable future.

Weight: 712g
Dimension: 236 x 157 x 48 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780674292130
Edition number: 2 ed