The Book of Indians by Holling C. Holling is a richly illustrated educational book that introduces young readers to the history and cultures of Native American peoples across North America. First published in the mid-20th century, the book reflects Holling’s distinctive approach of blending narrative storytelling, geography, and visual learning.
Organized largely by region, The Book of Indians traces Native American life from ancient times through early contact with Europeans. Holling emphasizes how geography shaped different tribes’ ways of life, including housing, clothing, tools, transportation, and food sources. His detailed maps, diagrams, and drawings—hallmarks of his work—help readers visualize migration routes, trade networks, and environmental adaptations.
While the book was intended as an educational overview and was widely used in classrooms, it also reflects the perspectives and limitations of its era. Some terminology and portrayals are dated and shaped by mid-20th-century assumptions rather than Native voices. As a result, the book is best read today as a historical artifact of children’s educational literature, useful for understanding how Native Americans were presented to earlier generations, rather than as a fully accurate or contemporary cultural account.
Overall, The Book of Indians remains notable for its engaging illustrations and ambitious scope, offering insight into both Native American history and the evolution of American historical storytelling.