From Book News, Inc.
The 12 journals of the remarkable Russian priest comprise formal reports to his diocesan office at Irkutsk, but more important they comprise an account of Aleut history in the making, particularly the seminal creation of an Aleut literature. Translated by Jerome Kisslinger, with introduction and commentary by S.A. Mousalimas. Annotation copyright Book News, Inc. Portland, Or.

Language Notes
Text: English (translation)
Original Language: Russian

FROM THE PUBLISHER

These twelve journals comprise formal reports by Ioann (Ivan) Veniaminov to his diocesan office at Irkustsk, written while he was assigned to the Unalashka (Unalaska) parish and to the Novo-Arkhangel'sk (Sitka) parish. The journal entries locate villages, provide insights into village leadership, describe travel routes and conditions, and specify modes of transportation. They also contain significant accounts regarding the Nushagak region Yupiit, as well as a description of Fort Ross and the newly independent Republic of California.

Veniaminov's range of interests was broad and he pursued them with boundless energy. While performing the normal duties of an Orthodox parish priest, he found time for carpentry and raising a family. He not only learned to read and write Aleut, but he soon was busy compiling a grammar text and a dictionary. His interests also extended to the protection of threatened species and caring for the natural environment.

FROM THE CRITICS

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