This is a work of historical anthropology in which Bellér-Hann (Martin-Luther U., Germany) explores the development of social life among the Uyghur of what is now Xinjiang China. Following a review of the geography, political history, and ethnic composition of the region, he provides an overview of economic activities, redistribution mechanisms, and social hierarchies in the pre-socialist era. He then explores the role of law and custom and their interaction in regulating social life. The social relations of mutuality and hierarchy surrounding life-cycle rituals and family structure are examined next, followed by exploration of popular beliefs, official and unofficial religious rituals, and everyday ritual action for dealing with the supernatural. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)