Over the years I have amassed a large collection of books on the Hopi. My bookcases give evidence of this obsession.
Even as I write, I am looking at these books, and they are looking back at me. Some are on Hopi religious ceremonies, language, and history. Two of them I wrote.
Still others are biographical accounts, written during a bygone time in American history. Regardless of topic or genre, they are a reminder of those who came before and after me.
A canon that I have contributed to and have grown to appreciate. A foundation that I have built on, but that has also shaped and built me.
Carpenters have their saws and chisels.
Historians?
Well, we have our books.
Beyond the Mesas 
I’m quite the bibliophile myself. I have some 500+ books. That’s not including the vast collection of books my father left me! Yes, historians, educators and writers all have their cherished tomes. It’s vital for people to read more than the TV guide and beer bottle labels. Thus, education is even more critical as our society advances more and more.