The Osage language is a vital part of Osage identity. The language suffered rapid decline during the twentieth century, but the Osage people are taking significant steps to revitalize its use. To that end, this volume-the first ever introductory Osage grammar textbook-is a much-needed resource for students, teachers, scholars, and anyone wishing to learn how to speak and write Osage. Written collectively by bilingual Osage speakers and linguists, Osage Language and Lifeways offers both clear grammatical instruction and valuable cultural information. As the authors explain in their introduction, the Osage language, a Dhegiha language within the Siouan language family, is highly complex. Drawing on their Native language expertise and classroom experience, the authors clarify elements of Osage grammar that are entirely different from English grammar or other European languages. Each chapter begins with a short dialogue or story written by Osage speakers. These passages present commonly used expressions and provide glimpses into Osage life experiences. The lessons are ordered in such a way that students can quickly learn how to pronounce Osage words, understand and make full sentences, and read and write the Osage alphabet. Where possible, the authors limit the amount of difficult linguistic terminology and include numerous examples to illustrate their points. At the same time, this book is sufficiently descriptive for linguists seeking to study the language on a more technical level. An important contribution to the study of indigenous languages, Osage Language and Lifeways opens a new pathway for Osages to learn and practice the language of their ancestors and ensure its continuity for future generations.
Industry Reviews
A much-needed text for Osage language teachers and students, Osage Language and Lifeways provides sequenced lessons which will be incredibly useful in academic settings and for independent language learners. Thank you to Cameron Pratt, Stephanie Rapp, Marcia Haag, and Dylan Herrick for their years of dedication to Osage language."-Janis Carpenter, Principal Teacher, Osage Nation Language Department "Osage Language and Lifeways provides student-friendly curriculum in the Osage language that is engaging and culturally relevant. The authentic voices of Cameron Pratt and Stephanie Rapp come through, with dialogues and example sentences about community traditions as well as modern times. This book represents a valuable gift from dedicated educators to promote speaking of their heritage language for generations to come."-Jill D. Greer, Professor of Anthropology and Siouan language expert, Missouri Southern State University "Language and culture are key to a people retaining their identity. Osage Language and Lifeways offers an expert linguistic approach to Osage culture and language, contributing much to their continuation. Readers from varied disciplines will be rewarded with the level of knowledge and information presented. Congratulations are in order for everyone involved in this publication."-Archie Mason (Osage Nation), educator, Osage Congress member, and Executive Minister, All Tribes Indian Baptist Church
