They Make Themselves – Work and Play among the Baining of Papua New Guinea

"They Make Themselves – Work and Play among the Baining of Papua New Guinea" by Jane Fajans is an insightful exploration into the intriguing lives of the Baining people. Published by The University of Chicago Press in 1997, this comprehensive paperback spans 328 pages, offering a detailed examination of the Baining's daily existence.

Fajans delves into the complexities of Baining culture, which has traditionally posed challenges for anthropologists due to its seemingly fluid social structure. However, she contends that the Baining define their identity through their productive and reproductive endeavors, making this study a significant contribution to the understanding of their community dynamics. This book is essential for anyone interested in anthropology, cultural studies, or the diverse ways in which people construct their identities through work and social interaction.