New Book 'Plastic Shaman' Examines Deadly Consequences of Native Spirituality Appropriation in Self-Help Industry
A new book titled 'Plastic Shaman: The True Story of a Deadly Self-Help Retreat and America’s Misguided Quest for Wellness' by Annette McGivney investigates the 2009 false sweat lodge ceremony in Sedona, Arizona, which resulted in three deaths. The incident involved self-help guru James Ray, who charged participants $10,000 for a retreat promising spiritual ascension through what he claimed were sacred Native teachings. Ray, a white millionaire, integrated a questionable understanding of Indigenous knowledge with wealth-building techniques. The book delves into the tragedy, its impact on the victims' families, and the broader implications for Native American communities. McGivney, an award-winning author and journalist, explores how the multibillion-dollar self-help industry exploits Native cultures and individuals seeking spiritual enlightenment. The narrative intertwines the story of victim James Shore and his widow, Alyssa, with the rise of the self-help industry and the ongoing efforts of Indian Countr...
