Paja Faudree is Assistant Professor of Anthropology at Brown University.
“Paja Faudree’s ambitious new study of ethnic politics among Mazatec people combines a rich understanding of Oaxaca’s unique histories and a sophisticated knowledge of recent social theory...the author does a magnificent job of historicizing and ethnographically detailing the unique cultural revival occurring in the Mazatec region.” (Howard Campbell The Americas)
“A very well-written and important work on the anthropological linguistics of Mesoamerica. Essential.” (P. R. Sullivan Choice)
"A major contribution to the study of ethnic revival movements in the Americas and elsewhere." (Zoila Mendoza Journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute)
"This is a splendid book.” (Chris Goertzen Western Folklore)
“The questions Singing for the Dead raises are provocative and well timed. An ethnographically grounded and nuanced study, this elegant contribution to knowledge on indigenous literature and literacy in Mexico extends disciplinary walls to address much broader questions of ethnic identity, social movements, and national belonging.” (Alex E. Chávez American Ethnologist)
"Faudree’s book represents an important contribution to empirically founded discussions of the role of artistic practice in linguistic revitalization. In her rich portrait of grassroots initiatives in symbiotic relation with national ethnic demands, Faudree gives us reasons to feel hopeful about the future of indigenous literacy efforts in Mexico." (Genner Llanes-Ortiz American Anthropologist 2015-09-01)
"Faudree’s text is a rich and detailed meditation on the revival movements in Sierra Mazateca in Oaxaca, Mexico.... Those who study revitalization movements, Mazateco culture and history, or Oaxaca will find much food for thought in Singing for the Dead." (Mintzi Auanda Martinez-Rivera Journal of Folklore Research 2014-09-10)