Monday, May 16, 2016

The Blue Tattoo

Mifflin, Margot. The Blue Tattoo: The Life of Olive Oatman. 6 CDs. unabridged. 6.5 hrs. Tantor Audio. ISBN 9781515904908 $37.99.

Women's history author, journalist, and professor, Margot Mifflin, expands her research into this easily listenable tract about the life of Olive Oatman. In 1851, thirteen year old Olive was traveling west with her family when they were set upon by Yavapai Indians, she escaped the slaughter only to be taken hostage. Later traded to the friendly Mohaves she was raised as one of their own and even had her face tattooed as a symbol of belonging. She spent several happy years living among them until she was forced to return to white society and re-assimilate. Permanently branded, she was seen as an oddity and her childhood trauma and facial tattoo caused her celebrity status. Meticulously researched this true tale of wild west lore will captivate readers. For such a brutally fascinating glimpse into history, it reads remarkably light and may even interest teen readers and listeners as well. Wonderfully narrated by the talented voice actor, Kaipo Schwab, this story flows fast and compels listeners to keep listening. A must read for fans of wild west lore, women's history, and tattooing. - Erin Cataldi, Johnson Co. Public Library, Franklin, IN

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