BajaNomad

Recommended Baja Book

rockman - 5-25-2009 at 10:04 AM

All of you who have an interest in Missions, Missionaries, and the various Indian tribes of southern Baja should be aware of a relatively unknown newer book entitled, “An Expedition to the Guaycura Nation in the Californias” by James Arraj, 2003. It is one of the most thoroughly researched references of this nature that I have seen since the Dawson’s series. In places, the grammar causes a reader to stumble, but the content is valuable, and all footnoted.
Strangely, this book is published by “Inner Growth Books and Videos” which specializes in religious, philosophical and psychological works, but this does not detract from this book’s value to Baja aficionados.
The book costs $30 plus tax and shipping. There is also a DVD, “Exploring the Other Baja California” available for $25. The DVD resembles “Corazon Vaquero”, and although it covers some different areas, is does not seem to be as professionally produced.
Contact:
Inner Growth Books & Videos; Box 37; Chiloquin OR 97634
www.innerexplorations.com
arraj@innerexplorations.com
(541) 783 – 3126.
I am now in Loreto until 15 June, and have a couple of extra copies if any locals want a copy.
And for the record, I have no connection with the author or publisher – just an enthusiast and collector of Baja books, maps, periodicals, etc.

DENNIS - 5-25-2009 at 10:35 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by rockman
Strangely, this book is published by “Inner Growth Books and Videos” which specializes in religious, philosophical and psychological works, but this does not detract from this book’s value to Baja aficionados.



Here's a list of books by this author. Some pretty heavy stuff. I doubt the emphasis is on grubbing around in the dirt unless it's in one's head.
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Well, that link didn't work. just go to barnesandnoble.com and in the "books" department, type in the authors name.

[Edited on 5-25-2009 by DENNIS]

rockman - 5-25-2009 at 11:03 AM

I would not put my name on a recommendation if I thought the book was not worthwhile. There are SOME researchers who LIKE "heavy stuff". This man has spent time in the archives of Spain, Italy, Mexico, even comparing the handwriting of original documents when there seem to be conflcts in the old records.
This is about as close to the original sources as one can get.
"Don't judge a book by its cover (or the name of its author)", particularly if you haven't seen the book.

DENNIS - 5-25-2009 at 11:14 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by rockman
"Don't judge a book by its cover (or the name of its author)", particularly if you haven't seen the book.


I wasn't judgeing anything or anybody. Just offering additional information on the author. Seems I have trod on hallowed ground. I reverently apologize. [should I direct that to you or the author?]

Neal Johns - 5-26-2009 at 11:49 AM

Thanks for the review, Rockman. I will probably pass since I have run out of wall space for bookcases - no, not all Baja. :lol::lol::lol::lol:

bajalera - 7-7-2009 at 04:19 PM

I've had this book for several years and also find it worthwhile. But agree with Dennis--it just doesn't fit in with the author's other publications.

DianaT - 7-7-2009 at 10:25 PM

Does sound like an interesting book. Read the first page on Amazon---

Thanks for the suggestion