This is an engrossing account of ethnographic field work carried out in Lupupa Ngye, a Basongye village of central Zäire. The author's general aim was to know Basongye society and culture, and also to study music and the other arts. This volume provides a vivid descriptive sketch of the daily lives of the villagers and an understanding of their belief system. Professor Merriam's field-work in Lupupa Ngye was intensive and capable; his report on it is illuminating.