Ancestral Lines

This ethnography explores the Maisin of Papua New Guinea and their responses to economic and environmental challenges, making Ancestral Lines a vital resource for students.

This insightful ethnography presents a detailed examination of how the Maisin people of Papua New Guinea address significant economic and environmental challenges. Ancestral Lines is crafted to be engaging and accessible, making it an ideal resource for introductory cultural anthropology courses. The author, Barker, has structured the book into chapters that align with key themes commonly discussed in introductory anthropology, such as kinship, economic activities, social structures, and environmental issues.

In its second edition, Ancestral Lines has been thoroughly revised to include a new timeline of critical events and a concluding chapter that updates readers on significant developments since 2002, including a catastrophic cyclone and a pivotal court ruling against the forestry industry. This makes the text not only relevant but also timely, as it reflects the ongoing struggles and resilience of the Maisin community.

Barker's writing is both clear and engaging, ensuring that each chapter resonates with students at various levels of understanding. The discussions around topics like reciprocity and sorcery are nuanced and thought-provoking, contributing fresh perspectives to established debates. Unlike many ethnographies aimed at undergraduates, Ancestral Lines neither patronizes nor bores its readers, making it a valuable addition to any anthropology syllabus.