This is a very interesting book because it brings together the unlikely partnership of Tom Flanagan -- known for his book "First Nations, Second Thoughts" -- and Manny Jules, former chief of the Kamloops band and head of the First Nations Tax Institute. The authors, and the idea of modernizing property rights on Indian reserves, are united across the political spectrum. It's a good idea, and we should forget about debates over left vs right and read this book with an open mind.

Building on the work of Hernando De Soto, the authors propose a new land ownership regime that would allow First Nations people to own reserve property individually. Experience has shown that clarity of ownership, the ability to secure mortgages, and a well functioning real estate market are all key factors in promoting economic growth. A clear property regime will do more for economic well being than many of the incentive programs so often promoted by governments.

This book is written in an accessible style, with lots of explanation of the current regime in Canada, its weaknesses, experiences with alternatives, and finally the proposed First Nations Property Ownernship Act. ( )