Reading and Writing the Lakota Language

by Albert White Hat Sr., Albert White Hat Sr., Jael Kampfe (Editor)

Based on extensive research and pedagogy on the Rosebud Reservation, this elementary grammar of Lakota, one of the three languages spoken by the Sioux nation, is the first written by a native Lakota speaker. It presents the Sicangu dialect using an orthography developed by Lakota in 1982 and which is now supplanting older systems provided by linguists and missionaries. This new approach represents a powerful act of self-determination for Indian education.

Though  Reading and Writing the Lakota Language  is thorough in its inclusion of conjugation, syntax, and sentence, it emphasizes vocabulary and pronunciation. Author Albert White Hat Sr. presents Lakota philosophy as it applies to specific grammar lessons. Moreover, he documents the impact of the acculturation process on the language, showing how Lakota evolved as a result of non-Indian influences. The textual example offers new information and interpretation of Lakota society, even to scholars who specialize n Plains cultures. Beyond language instruction, readers will value the book for its cultural insights, humorous stories, and its entertaining tone.

Genres: Native American, Language, Nonfiction, Indigenous, Reference

240 pages, Paperback

First published February 17, 1999

Reviews

[Gaile · Rating 5 out of 5]

NOT EASY!

[Taté Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I purchased the book from eBay and it didnt include a CD (I would have loved to hear these words spoken). I’m trying to wean myself from the Lakota Language Consortium, which has been exposed as a language colonizer - selling our own information back to us (copyrighting culture)—and making terrible (Christian/Western) translations on certain words/phrases. This book is a great resource and place to start for folks like me who are making (incremental - le sigh) progress toward language reclamation and revitalization.

[Austin Sunka Luta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Original lakota orthography created before Lakota Language Consortium was established. I highly recommend this book ad it was established by fluent lakota elders only. Authentic literacy straight from the source.

[Grant Showalter-Swanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has been an extremely useful tool and resource as I have learned Lakota Language/Philosophy basics this semester. 10/10 highly recommend!