Hillerman Seldom Disappoints

Tony Hillerman's series of novels about Navajo culture and traditions are very popular. Reviewers don't agree about how many books have been written in the Navajo culture series. Most reviewers do agree, though, that his books are wonderful. "The First Eagle" is not the best Hillerman work, according to reviewers, but it does not disappoint in virtue of his character choices. Reconnecting Jim Chee with his ex-boss, retired Jim Leaphorn, keeps readers in the action right to the end.

Writing about Native Americans comes natural to Tony Hillerman. Raised in Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma, most of his friends and classmates were Native Americans. Many tribes were relocated to Oklahoma from their hereditary lands by the government. Being somewhat alike but having major differences often created disputes among tribes. This was young Hillerman's world; Tribes from many nations were a part of his world, his education, and his research.

"The First Eagle" is dedicated to six Navajo Tribal Police who lost their lives in defense of their people. Life is hard in all tribal nations -- we read about the dreadful treatment of Indians, but Tony Hillerman saw the results first hand.

Considered a National Treasure by many, Hillerman has written for Harper Collins for 35 years. In addition to his Navajo Tribal Police series, he has written children's books, an autobiography named "Seldom Disappointed," and several non-fiction works. He has earned the Mystery Writers of America Edgar and Grand Master Awards, the Center for American Indians Ambassador Award, the Silver Spur Award for best novel in the West, and the Navajo Tribe's Special Friend Award.