How Long to Read Mesa of Sorrows: A History of the Awat'ovi Massacre

How Long Does it Take to Read Mesa of Sorrows: A History of the Awat'ovi Massacre?

It takes the average reader 3 hours and 47 minutes to read Mesa of Sorrows: A History of the Awat'ovi Massacre by James F. Brooks

Assuming a reading speed of 250 words per minute. Learn more

Description

A scrupulously researched investigation of the mysterious massacre of Hopi Indians at Awat'ovi, and the event's echo through American history. The Hopi community of Awat’ovi existed peacefully on Arizona’s Antelope Mesa for generations until one bleak morning in the fall of 1700—raiders from nearby Hopi villages descended on Awat’ovi, slaughtering their neighboring men, women, and children. While little of the pueblo itself remains, five centuries of history lie beneath the low rises of sandstone masonry, and theories about the events of that night are as persistent as the desert winds. The easternmost town on Antelope Mesa, Awat’ovi was renowned for its martial strength, and had been the gateway to the entire Hopi landscape for centuries. Why did kinsmen target it for destruction? Drawing on oral traditions, archival accounts, and extensive archaeological research, James Brooks unravels the story and its significance. Mesa of Sorrows follows the pattern of an archaeological expedition, uncovering layer after layer of evidence and theories. Brooks questions their reliability and shows how interpretations were shaped by academic, religious and tribal politics. Piecing together three centuries of investigation, he offers insight into why some were spared—women, mostly, and taken captive—and others sacrificed. He weighs theories that the attack was in retribution for Awat’ovi having welcomed Franciscan missionaries or for the residents’ practice of sorcery, and argues that a perfect storm of internal and external crises revitalized an ancient cycle of ritual bloodshed and purification. A haunting account of a shocking massacre, Mesa of Sorrows is a probing exploration of how societies confront painful histories, and why communal violence still plagues us today.

How long is Mesa of Sorrows: A History of the Awat'ovi Massacre?

Mesa of Sorrows: A History of the Awat'ovi Massacre by James F. Brooks is 224 pages long, and a total of 56,896 words.

This makes it 76% the length of the average book. It also has 70% more words than the average book.

How Long Does it Take to Read Mesa of Sorrows: A History of the Awat'ovi Massacre Aloud?

The average oral reading speed is 183 words per minute. This means it takes 5 hours and 10 minutes to read Mesa of Sorrows: A History of the Awat'ovi Massacre aloud.

What Reading Level is Mesa of Sorrows: A History of the Awat'ovi Massacre?

Mesa of Sorrows: A History of the Awat'ovi Massacre is suitable for students ages 12 and up.

Note that there may be other factors that effect this rating besides length that are not factored in on this page. This may include things like complex language or sensitive topics not suitable for students of certain ages.

When deciding what to show young students always use your best judgement and consult a professional.

Where Can I Buy Mesa of Sorrows: A History of the Awat'ovi Massacre?

Mesa of Sorrows: A History of the Awat'ovi Massacre by James F. Brooks is sold by several retailers and bookshops. However, Read Time works with Amazon to provide an easier way to purchase books.

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