The highly readable chapters of each volume are divided into four categories:
-- Roots: provides an overview of each region with maps, tribal family trees, descriptions of terrain and climate, and an examination of various tribal languages
-- Way of life: takes a look at different forms of clothing, shelter, and tools, as well as methods of gathering, growing, hunting, and cooking food
-- Rituals: explores folklore, myths, religions, and religious ceremonies
-- Change: documents the history of Native American relations with early white settlers and modern Americans in an objective manner.

Plateau groups covered include: Nez Perce
-- Flathead
-- Cayuse
-- Yakima
-- Coeur d' Alene
-- Columbia. Great Basin groups include: Ute
-- Shoshoni
-- Paiute
-- Northern Paiute
-- Bannock.