Anthony Grove Hillerman, also known as Tony Hillerman, was born and raised in Sacred Heart, Oklahoma. He was born May 27, 1925, and lived until October 26, 2008. He was one of America’s most prominent and best selling authors. He is mostly known for writing mystery and detective novels, but he also authored many non-fiction novels. Many of his novels were made into movies as well as television series.

Hillerman is known for his vivid cultural depictions in his novels. He often writes about the American Southwest and the people of that region. Hillerman has authored over 18 novels, many of which are in a series. He authored his first novel in 1970, called The Blessing Way. Its main character is Navajo Tribal Police Lt. Joe Leaphorn, who works to solve murders. This book began his famous series of Navajo mysteries, otherwise known as the Leaphorn and Chee series. The themes are fairly the same throughout these stories. They usually involve witchcraft and other supernatural elements.

He wrote his second book in 1973, and wrote novels every two years until 1988. He wrote four during the 1990s and four more in the 21st century. Hillerman published his final novel, The Shape Shifter, in 2006. He also authored biographies and picture books.

The way Hillerman approached his novels with great complexity and theory made him the legendary icon he is today. He was a magnificent author and his wonderful works will be cherished for a very long time.