The master storyteller, Tony Hillerman, created another timeless classic mystery with his book, “Coyote Waits.” Hillerman possesses an uncanny ability to tie together modern day crime investigation procedures and respect for ancient Navajo cultural beliefs. This is a central theme in Hillerman novels, and a theme in “Coyote Waits” as well.
Hillerman’s two Navajo policemen characters, Jim Chee and Joe Leaphorn, are featured in this book. They must evaluate their Indian heritage and how it merges with the white world. Although their views and methods differ, the two are learning to work together for a single purpose. There are several events in the book that test their ability to adjust and compromise. The investigation takes Chee and Leaphorn to a major state university, where they must defend tribal beliefs and traditions to the academic community. Being a professor himself, Hillerman is adept at describing the politics of academia.
This book has several Native American main characters, including Janet Pete, a Navajo legal worker and possible romantic interest of Chee. There are several threads woven into the plot of “Coyote Waits,” which definitely captures the reader’s interest. Among the threads a main question arises about the propriety of gleaning evidence from the remains of the dead, and the line between respect and plunder.
“Coyote Waits” was chosen to be made into a PBS TV “Mystery!” series movie in 2002. The clashes between ancient and modern, Native American and white, and different belief systems all combine to make a good mystery story. Add the gorgeous setting of the Southwest that is so loved by Tony Hillerman, and you get one great mystery novel.
