The author of this book about the Eastern Band of Cherokees on the Qualla Boundary in Western North Carolina is an enrolled member of the Cherokee Nation, headquartered in Oklahoma. She has degrees in economics from the University of Michigan and Wayne State University, and a PhD in anthropology from the University of North Carolina. She teaches at the University of South Carolina in a joint appointment with the Institute of Southern Studies and the Anthropology Department. Her book deals with the impact of Cherokee business owners on the Qualla Boundary. “In this well-written, ethnographically interesting, and insightful book, Lewis takes readers to the heart of how individuals constitute indigenous economies, not only via governmental institutions but also via private enterprise.” Jessca Cattelino. “This groundbreaking book demonstrates the creativity and cultural specificity of Native Americans who own businesses and run tribal enterprises. Lewis shows us the importance of small businesses in maintaining and strengthening the economic health of Native American communities.” – Margaret Bender.
Chapel Hill: The University of North Carolina Press, 2019.
312 pages with an Index, Notes, Bibliography, appendices, graphs, maps, and 21 illustrations. Trade paperback.