Tony Hillerman (born May 27, 1925 in Sacred Heart, Oklahoma; died 26th October 2008) was an award-winning contemporary American author of detective novels and non-fiction works. His mystery novels are set in the Four Corners area of New Mexico and Arizona. The protagonists are Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee of the Navajo tribal police. Lt. Leaphorn was introduced in Hillerman's first novel, The Blessing Way (1970). Hillerman was a decorated combat veteran from World War II, serving as a mortarman in the U.S. 104th Infantry Division. Later, he worked as a journalist from 1948-1962. Then he earned a Masters degree and taught journalism from 1966-1987 at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. Hillerman's writing is noted for the details he provides about the culture of the people he writes about: Hopi, European-American, federal agents, as well as Navajo. His works in nonfiction and in fiction reflect his appreciation of the natural wonders of the American Southwest and his appreciation of its people, particularly the Navajo.
Tony Hillerman (born May 27, 1925 in Sacred Heart, Oklahoma; died 26th October 2008) was an award-winning contemporary American author of detective novels and non-fiction works. His mystery novels are set in the Four Corners area of New Mexico and Arizona. The protagonists are Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee of the Navajo tribal police. Lt. Leaphorn was introduced in Hillerman's first novel, The Blessing Way (1970). Hillerman was a decorated combat veteran from World War II, serving as a mortarman in the U.S. 104th Infantry Division. Later, he worked as a journalist from 1948-1962. Then he earned a Masters degree and taught journalism from 1966-1987 at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. Hillerman's writing is noted for the details he provides about the culture of the people he writes about: Hopi, European-American, federal agents, as well as Navajo. His works in nonfiction and in fiction reflect his appreciation of the natural wonders of the American Southwest and his appreciation of its people, particularly the Navajo.
Q&A Session with 2026 Dublin Literary Award shortlisted author Brigitte Giraud, author of Live Fast, exploring the inspirations behind her novel.
VideoMay 12 2026
Laurent Binet – Perspective(s) Q&A
Check out our Q&A with Laurent Binet, author of shortlisted title Perspective(s), as he discusses the inspirations behind his work and reflects on the role libraries have played in shaping his journey
VideoMay 8 2026
Ali Smith – Gliff Q&A
Shortlisted author Ali Smith discusses the creative inspirations behind Gliff and reflects on the significance of libraries throughout her reading and writing life in our latest Q&A.
