Plant Technology of First Peoples in British Columbia

Nikki Tate-Stratton writes novels for preteens; her latest books are
Jessa Be Nimble, Rebel Be Quick; Raven’s Revenge; and Tarragon Island.

This excellent field guide to many plants native to British Columbia
emphasizes the traditional technological uses of plant materials by the
First Peoples of the region. The book begins with a general discussion
of the province’s physical environment (climate, topography), its
First Peoples, and the plant materials that aboriginals gather to build
houses and canoes; to make containers, mats, nets, clothing, dyes,
insect repellents, and tanning agents; and to dress wounds. The
introduction concludes with a description of harvesting and preparation
methods, followed by a quick discussion of how aboriginal groups traded
various types of plant materials.

The body of the book comprises a series of detailed plant listings
grouped into the following broad categories: algae, lichens, fungi,
mosses, ferns, conifers, and two groups of flowering plants
(monocotyledons and dicotyledons). Each plant listing includes a
photograph, scientific and common names, a botanical description of the
species, notes on habitat and distribution, and a detailed discussion of
aboriginal uses for the plant. Two appendixes contain information on
minor plants in aboriginal technology and the scientific names of plants
and animals. The handbook also includes a detailed index, a glossary,
and a comprehensive list of references.

In addition to the photographs of the plants, Turner also features some
photos of objects made from plant materials (e.g., baskets, nets,
carrying bags) and elders with handmade items, as well as a couple of
historical photographs. This is well-organized, clearly written book
contains a wealth of fascinating information for both the ethnobotanist
and the interested layperson.