There have also been a handful of adaptations of Tony Hillerman’s books. He also later received the Navajo Tribes’ Special Friends of Dineh Award for his depiction and representation of the Navajo people. In addition to winning an Edgar Award for his second Leaphorn and Chee novel, Dance Hall of the Dead, Hillerman also received the Mystery Writers of America’s Grand Master Award in 1991. There is a deep undercurrent of respect throughout his portrayal of the myth and tradition presented in his books. But, importantly, that focus blends seamlessly into his murder mystery investigations in a way that feels authentic. Hillerman’s appreciation for Indigenous culture and heritage is apparent in each of his Leaphorn and Chee novels, as well as in many of his nonfiction books. That book, The Blessing Way, would begin the series he would write for the rest of his life, before his daughter, Anne Hillerman, began writing the series following his death. He found his voice in writing murder mysteries that wove together compelling crafty crimes and Navajo culture with his debut. Hillerman lived in New Mexico until his death in 2008.ĭuring that time between becoming a journalism professor and his death, Hillerman began to write.

He worked as a journalist for more than a decade before he got his master’s degree and began teaching journalism at the University of New Mexico. His upbringing would later become apparent within the themes and subject matter of his books.īut before he became an author Hillerman first enlisted in the army during the Second World War and was a mortarman within the 103rd Infantry Division, accumulating many awards and distinctions for his service.įollowing his military service, Hillerman became a journalist. He was born in Sacred Heart, Oklahoma in 1925 and spent most of his adolescence attending school with the local Indigenous communities, which founded a deep appreciation for the culture. Most of Tony Hillerman’s works, whether fiction or nonfiction, pertain to Indigenous culture within what is now the southwestern region of the US.

So, keep reading to find out who picked up the helm of his popular series and about all the Tony Hillerman books in order. It creates a compelling series to dive into, and one that is still being written today despite Hillerman’s passing in 2008. Hillerman weaves together the stories of Joe Leaphorn and Jim Cree as they investigate murders within their jurisdiction and beyond with a supernatural twist of Indigenous heritage and lore. This mystery thriller series not only dives deep into murder and crime, but also into the rich culture of the Navajo. Most notable of all the Tony Hillerman books in order is his Leaphorn and Chee series.

Listening Woman by Tony Hillerman