Anne Hillerman, a celebrated author in her own right and the daughter of the legendary Tony Hillerman, has skillfully taken the reins of her father’s beloved Navajo Tribal Police series. Her dedication to meticulous research shines brightly in her contributions, offering readers a captivating blend of police procedural intrigue interwoven with the rich tapestry of Navajo culture, compelling characters, and breathtaking Southwestern landscapes. This article delves into Anne Hillerman’s continuation of the series, focusing on the characters of Jim Chee, Bernadette Manuelito, and the iconic Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn, as well as the vibrant world they inhabit.
At the heart of the series lies the dynamic trio of Navajo law enforcement officers: Jim Chee, a thoughtful and tradition-bound Sergeant; Bernadette "Bernie" Manuelito, Chee’s intelligent and resourceful wife, an Officer in the Tribal Police; and Joe Leaphorn, the seasoned and enigmatic Lieutenant, a figure of quiet authority and deep understanding of both Navajo ways and the complexities of criminal investigation. These characters, crafted with depth and authenticity by Tony Hillerman, have resonated with readers for decades, drawing them into a world where ancient beliefs and modern-day realities collide. Anne Hillerman masterfully preserves the essence of these characters, allowing them to evolve while remaining true to their established personalities and values.
A New Chapter: "Rock with Wings"
The publication of Anne Hillerman’s "Rock with Wings" marks another exciting chapter in the Leaphorn and Chee Mysteries. This installment presents readers with a compelling narrative that blends suspense, cultural insight, and the stunning beauty of the Navajo Nation. The storyline cleverly intertwines two separate investigations, pulling Chee and Manuelito in different directions while exploring diverse aspects of Navajo life and the challenges facing the community.
Initially, Jim Chee and Bernadette Manuelito embark on what seems like a simple favor – assisting a relative who is launching a tour bus service in the iconic Monument Valley. This offers them a brief respite from the demanding routine of police work. However, their escape is short-lived as two perplexing cases draw them back into the fray, separating them and testing their skills in different locations. One case unfolds near Shiprock, a prominent and sacred landmark in Navajo territory, while the other takes place amidst the dramatic backdrop of Monument Valley, a location deeply ingrained in the American imagination.
The Monument Valley setting introduces an interesting element: a film production plagued by mysterious events. This facet of the plot draws a parallel to the 1988 "Dirty Harry" film, "The Dead Pool," where a movie set becomes the scene of unsettling occurrences. This adds a layer of suspense and intrigue to the already compelling narrative.
Jim Chee finds himself pursuing a trail of seemingly random and cryptic clues, leading him to a missing woman, a ruthless criminal, and a mysterious mound of earth and rocks that could potentially be a clandestine gravesite. This investigation requires Chee to rely on his knowledge of Navajo traditions, his keen observational skills, and his unwavering determination to uncover the truth.
Meanwhile, Bernadette Manuelito grapples with the repercussions of a drug bust gone awry. She also investigates the origins of a fire that erupts in a remote area and delves into the complex implications of an ambitious solar energy development project and its potential impact on Navajo land. Bernie’s cases touch upon important issues facing the Navajo Nation, including environmental concerns, economic development, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
While Joe Leaphorn’s role in "Rock with Wings" is somewhat limited due to his recovery from gunshot wounds sustained in the line of duty, his presence is still deeply felt. His wisdom and experience serve as a guiding force for both Chee and Manuelito, reminding them of the importance of integrity, justice, and respect for Navajo traditions.
"Rock with Wings" delivers more than enough action and suspense to satisfy avid fans of Tony Hillerman’s work. Anne Hillerman has successfully captured the spirit of her father’s writing, creating a compelling and thought-provoking mystery that honors the legacy of the original series.
The Author: Carrying on a Legacy
Anne Hillerman’s journey into the world of Navajo mysteries began long before she penned "Spider Woman’s Daughter," the book that officially launched her continuation of her father’s work. Her deep connection to the Southwest, her appreciation for Navajo culture, and her understanding of the characters created by her father paved the way for her successful transition into a mystery writer.
Prior to taking on the Leaphorn and Chee series, Anne Hillerman established herself as a talented author in her own right, writing eight non-fiction books, including "Tony Hillerman’s Landscape: On the Road with Chee and Leaphorn." This book, co-authored with photographer Don Strel, involved extensive travel throughout the Southwest, exploring the landscapes that served as the backdrop for Tony Hillerman’s novels. This immersive experience provided Anne with invaluable insights into the region’s geography, history, and culture.
"In the process of researching Tony Hillerman’s Landscape, I re-read all of the Chee/Leaphorn mysteries, paying close attention to the settings," Anne Hillerman has said. "I ran into mud, dust storms, rez dogs, snow and those pricelessly beautiful days Tony Hillerman wrote about for more than 35 years. I loved nearly every minute of it. My personal highlights included New Mexico’s Bisti badlands, the mysterious landscape near Ship Rock and vast, empty Chaco Canyon."
This research proved instrumental in shaping Anne Hillerman’s approach to writing the Chee and Leaphorn novels. Her firsthand experience with the landscapes and her meticulous attention to detail allow her to create a sense of authenticity that resonates with readers.
Anne Hillerman, the eldest of Tony and Marie Hillerman’s six children, has deep roots in New Mexico. She came to the state as a child and has developed a profound love for the Southwest. Her other notable non-fiction works include "Gardens of Santa Fe," which showcases the exquisite gardens of Santa Fe and features interviews with their creators, and "Santa Fe Flavors: Best Restaurants and Recipes," a culinary guide to the city’s vibrant food scene. Both books have received prestigious awards at the New Mexico Book Awards.
Before dedicating herself to writing full-time, Anne Hillerman worked as a journalist, earning accolades for her writing from the New Mexico Press Association and the National Federation of Press Women. Her background in journalism honed her research skills, her ability to craft compelling narratives, and her commitment to accuracy.
In addition to her writing career, Anne Hillerman is actively involved in promoting the literary arts in New Mexico. She is a founder of the Tony Hillerman Writers Conference, an annual event held in Santa Fe that brings together writers, readers, and experts in the field of mystery writing. This conference serves as a tribute to her father’s legacy and provides a platform for aspiring writers to learn and connect with established authors.
Anne Hillerman has seamlessly stepped into her father’s shoes, preserving the spirit of the Jim Chee-Joe Leaphorn Navajo Tribal Police Series while adding her own unique voice and perspective. Her dedication to research, her respect for Navajo culture, and her ability to craft compelling mysteries have ensured that this beloved series continues to captivate readers for years to come. The legacy of Tony Hillerman lives on through the work of his talented daughter, Anne Hillerman.