"When I began my work in Trinidad, I remained a curious bystander during the first summer of my fieldwork. When I returned for a year-long stay, I gradually moved into the active participant group. Finally, after my initiation and once I began serving as a drummer, I moved up. ...My movement from the fingers to near 'center stage' occured as my knowledge of and experiences in the religion grew." -- James T. Houk, from Chapter 9 "This welcome study gives much needed attention to the various roots and influences within the Orisha complex in Trinidad and serves to establish James Houk as a leading scholar of African-Caribbean religions. Must reading for Trinidad specialists. Highly recommended." --Stephen D. Glaxier, University of Nebraska