Simms (anthropology, Utah State U.) has written this study of the ancient people of the Great Basin and northern Colorado Plateau for archaeologists, students and general readers who may be unfamiliar with these relatively undocumented societies. The author charts the origins of these indigenous peoples from prehistoric times to the eventual arrival of European settlers in the 19th century, using plenty of maps, diagrams and illustrations to create of synthesis of theories and archaeological evidence. The climate, habitats and geography of these prehistoric environments are also discussed in detail. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)