Tony Hillerman

The author of eighteen spellbinding detective novels set on the Navajo Nation, Tony Hillerman simultaneously transformed a traditional genre and unlocked the mysteries of the Navajo culture to an audience of millions. His best-selling novels added Navajo Tribal Police detectives Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee to the pantheon of American fictional detectives. Morris offers a balanced portrait of Hillermans personal and professional life and provides a timely appreciation of his work. In intimate detail, Morris captures the authors early years in Depression-era Oklahoma; his near-death experience in World War II; his sixty-year marriage to Marie; his family life, including six children, five of them adopted; his work in the trenches of journalism; his affliction with PTSD and its connection to his enchantment with Navajo spirituality; and his ascension as one of Americas best-known authors of mysteries. Further, Morris uncovers the almost accidental invention of Hillermans iconic detective Joe Leaphorn and the circumstances that led to the addition of Jim Chee as his partner. Hillermans novels were not without controversy. Morris examines the charges of cultural appropriation leveled at the author toward the end of his life. Yet, for many readers, including many Native Americans, Hillerman deserves critical acclaim for his knowledgeable and sensitive portrayal of Din (Navajo) history, culture, and identity. At the time of Hillermans death, more than 20 million copies of his books were in print, and his novels inspired Robert Redford to adapt them to film. In weaving together all the elements of the authors life, Morris drew on the untapped collection of the authors papers, extensive archival research, interviews with friends, colleagues, and family, as well as travel in the Navajo Nation. Filled with never-before-told anecdotes and fresh insights, Tony Hillerman will thrill the authors fans and awaken new interest in his life and literary legacy.