I was trying to find books which offered views of the history of the Saami people; I really wanted to learn more about these people, and their interaction with the early medieval history of Norway and Scandinavia. Anyway, having been slightly sidetracked, I thought this book might give a view of the Saami culture as it is now. And I always enjoy books about life as it is lived by other peoples and their cultures. Lapland is one of those exotic places that it seems to be hard to really get to know what it's like; while this book is not a historical exploration of the Saami people that I was originally looking to read, it is a most interesting and enlightening read of a place that I knew very little about, and the way of life of a people whose history goes back for centuries. The integral part that reindeer played in their life, and the way in which the modern ways of life are impinging on their lifestyle make for most interesting reading. The book is written with empathy and wry humour; the people become real for the reader. A great read.