This is an awesome book. I am not an anthropologist and so cannot comment on its research methods etc. I can, however, attest that this book articulated a strongly post-colonial viewpoint and made me think deeply about the way we live in "developed" countries. The anthropological information is constructed around Maybury-Lewis's story of living with the Xavante people, and this biographical aspect of the book's construction helps to engage readers further with the ideological orientation of the text. I loved the photographs, the inserts about various historical writings on anthropological issues. My favourite part of the book is when David and his family witness a "log race" whilst living with the Xavante - we witness the beauty of a life lived without pointless competition and egotism. Maybury-Lewis' book is one of my favourite resources and I re-read it regularly for spiritual and intellectual respite.