expert, would have kept the illustrator in hand. I refer to the Maori nudes, or should I say ‘pin-ups’. I do not object to ‘topless’ versions, but when my women are exposed in such a way as in this book, their shame is my shame. Such exposure, deliberate or accidental, has given rise to vendettas, feuds, suicides and deaths. It can be one of the strongest forms of insult. The photographic studies and the text oppose each other—the text on page 62 stating that the Maori was the most modest of Polynesians, and the Maori nudes indicating the opposite. I must admit, however, that many of the studies are beautiful, underlining the inherent dignity of Polynesian women in general, and it is unfortunate that by undressing only the Maori and Marquesan women, Sieben has given a wrong impression. As I have already mentioned, it is aimed at the beast in man, and purports to deal with sexual behaviour in traditional Polynesia. It falls flat. I learnt nothing. Consumer Institute could well use it as an example of deceptive packaging. The author has covered a wide field but in some areas it is apparent that he has had to meet a dead-line, and has departed from his usual scholarly approach. The publication is notable for its lack of an index.

Thoughts on a N.Z. Christmas Why not a Maori Crib? And Madonna of dusky hue? And couldn't the Kings be Maori chiefs And the shepherds Maori too? And the gifts they bring, a patu A Tiki and Maori poi A rich feather cloak and a Maori mat To give to the little God-boy. So why not a Maori Crib? Fay Clayton.

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