This book provides a gateway to anthropological thought and knowledge by teaching the essential skill of reading and interpreting ethnography. Laying bare the central conventions of ethnographic writing, the book shows how to understand and evaluate ethnographic texts, critique them originally, identify their core ideas and transfer these to other contexts. Including excerpts from key ethnographies and balanced and progressive reader activities, it matches popular course requirements and teaches an independent approach to this vital element of study. Reading exercises, a timeline, glossary and full chapter summaries also provide interactive resources for coursework and exam revision.