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Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher: The Epic Life and Immortal Photographs of Edward Curtis

Name: Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher: The Epic Life and Immortal Photographs of Edward Curtis
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Book Synopsis: A New York Times Notable Book A Winner of the Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Nonfiction

New York Times bestselling and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Timothy Egan reveals the life story of the man determined to preserve a people and culture in Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher: The Epic Life and Immortal Photographs of Edward Curtis. “A vivid exploration of one man's lifelong obsession with an idea . . . Egan’s spirited biography might just bring [Curtis] the recognition that eluded him in life.”— —The Washington Post

Edward Curtis was charismatic, handsome, a passionate mountaineer, and a famous portrait photographer, the Annie Leibovitz of his time. He moved in rarefied circles, a friend to presidents, vaudeville stars, leading thinkers. But when he was thirty-two years old, in 1900, he gave it all up to pursue his Great Idea: to capture on film the continent’s original inhabitants before the old ways disappeared. Curtis spent the next three decades documenting the stories and rituals of more than eighty North American tribes. It took tremendous perseverance — — ten years alone to persuade the Hopi to allow him to observe their Snake Dance ceremony. And the undertaking changed him profoundly, from detached observer to outraged advocate. Curtis would amass more than 40,000 photographs and 10,000 audio recordings, and he is credited with making the first narrative documentary film. In the process, the charming rogue with the grade school education created the most definitive archive of the American Indian.

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Discover the untold story of a visionary artist and his quest to immortalize a vanishing culture in Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher: The Epic Life and Immortal Photographs of Edward Curtis. With its captivating narrative and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Timothy Egan at the helm, this New York Times Notable Book is a must-read for history buffs and photography enthusiasts alike.

Step into the world of Edward Curtis, a man ahead of his time. From his dazzling portraits of influential figures to his breathtaking landscapes, Curtis was revered as the Annie Leibovitz of the early 20th century. But his true legacy lies in his determination to save the stories and traditions of North America's indigenous tribes.

Imagine the challenges Curtis faced as he embarked on his Great Idea. He spent years building relationships with over eighty tribes, gaining their trust and navigating cultural sensitivities. His dedication paid off, resulting in over 40,000 photographs, 10,000 audio recordings, and the first-ever narrative documentary film. Curtis was not just an observer; he became an advocate for indigenous rights.

Now, you have the opportunity to follow in Edward Curtis's footsteps and delve into this extraordinary journey. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Native American history and culture, beautifully captured through Curtis's lens. Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher will transport you to a world on the brink of transformation, where traditions clash with progress.

Don't miss your chance to own a piece of history. Experience the timeless brilliance of Edward Curtis and his unwavering commitment to preserving the heritage of a remarkable people. Order Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher today and embark on a journey that will leave you inspired, educated, and forever changed.

Order your copy of Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher and embark on a transformative journey through the lens of Edward Curtis.

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