The author brings Apess nearly fully to life, which no one else, among many scholars, has. I know of no better reader of Apess's own writing. Again and again, by close and insightful attention, the author illuminates Apess's language, often employing it as a basis for persuasive surmises about his whereabouts, about whom he is with, and the possible larger meanings of his often compressed or flat statements.–Barry O'Connell, editor of
On Our Own Ground: The Complete Writings of William Apess, a Pequot This is a salient and cogent reminder of the long history of indigenous struggles for justice, as well as an affirmation of indigenous values and survivance.–
Transmotion Though an Indian's Looking-Glass is a tour-de-force re-visioning of one of Native literature's most enigmatic figures . . . It is the speculative possibilities of Lopenzina's approach, along with his rigorous historicism and insightful close readings, that [are] most provocative.–
Native American and Indigenous Studies Through an Indian's Looking-Glass is essential reading for those who study Apess and an ideal classroom companion for those who wish to teach Apess's writings . . . Despite all we don't know about Apess, Lopenzina's book leaves one with the feeling of intimate knowing, understanding, and admiration.–
Early American Literature
