Why is Tony Hillerman so Popular?

Tony Hillerman is a very popular novelist who wrote a multitude of murder mystery novels during his lifetime. They describe people struggling to maintain ancient traditions in the modern world. What makes his stories unique is that they were set among the Navajos of the Southwest. Tony Hillerman is said to be lyrical and authentic, as his stories echo the lives of two main characters that appear in all but two of his novels. These characters are Navajo Tribal Police Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn and the much younger officer Jim Chee. Hillerman takes us through the lives of these men as they solve bizarre murders that take place mostly on the Navajo reservation.

Hillerman is recognized for creating a melting pot of various characters and plotting through different regions to create a multicultural story line. Hillerman was able to reach out to millions of fans as he wrote of modern crimes, yet held onto the vast traditions of the Navajo, showing the deep respect he has for the Indian culture. In doing so, Hillerman gained much recognition and popularity as his approach was unbiased. Hillerman has been called a treasure in that he has been an ambassador between the whites and the Indians. Additionally, he also made aspects of Native American society, culture, religion, and history central to his stories. He also spoke very highly of various tribes including, but not limited to the Hopi and Zuni tribes.

Tony Hillerman passed away at the age of 83 in Albuquerque, New Mexico in October of 2008. Although he is gone, his writing lives on.