Way Down Yonder in the Indian Nation: Writing from America's Heartland

Oklahoma is suffering an identity problem, according to Wallis ( Route 66 ), due to a denial of its history and an enduring second-class citizen attitude. Seeking to shatter some of the stereotypes and to find the essence of our 46th state, Wallis offers an engaging piece on Americans. He writes about Woody Guthrie, about Pretty Boy Floyd, Cherokee Chief Wilma Mankiller and Frank Phillips of petroleum fame. Escorting us mile by mile down America's highway, Route 66, he tells us about the Miller family's ranch and its touring Wild West Shows of the pre-WW I era. Wallis pays triubte to the Thunderbirds, the Army's 45th Infantry Division, and to its leaders. He also points out prime barbecue emporiums in this vivid portrait of Oklahoma and its inhabitants, past and present, which should spark strong local and regional interest. Photos not seen by PW. (June)