As I have mentioned before, Native Americans, and Native American culture holds my deepest respect. This group of people is one of the most mistreated of all peoples in American throughout history and in our current world. So many histories have been told in books and academic papers, only to scratch the surface. And there is a deep history of well written and respectful fiction books that bring to light the struggle, joys and life of these people.
Check out my Goodreads list for a full listing of non-fiction and fiction titles I've read over the years.
Zeke and Ned by Larry McMurtry- This often comical tell of the Cherokee tribe on reservation in the Oklahoma Territory is McMurtry gold. At its core, this story is a Quixotic narrative of two bumbling, tumbling outlaws as they traverse the territory on the lam.
The Novels of Tony Hillerman- Hillerman has made a living on his Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee novels that take us deep in the Navajo Tribal Police Department. This beloved series comes from a place of respect and genuine interest toward the welfare of the Four Corners area of the American Southwest. Hillerman's attention to detail for Navajo culture and traditions led the tribe to make him an honorary member and the appreciation for their ways is evident in all his books.
The Walt Longmire Series by Craig Johnson- I am a fan. Period. While Walt, Vic and Henry venture onto the rez and deal with the Cheyenne Tribal police, Johnson is so subtle with his treatment. You get glimpses and enough to set the scene, which is enough to keep you coming back. Plus you have Walt's best friend and occasional aid-de-camp, Henry Standing Bear who is a fantastic character to include in the cannon of Native Americans represented in fiction. And do not mistake the Henry Standing Bear of Johnson's novels and that of the TV series.
The Searchers by Alan Lemay- While not at all about Native Americans, this story tells of a man's search for his niece taken by the Comanche tribe after the Civil War. Much has been discussed about this book and the movie that followed in regards to Ethan Edward's dark racism towards the tribe.
Cry Dance by Kirk Mitchell- This was a fun little book, but I will be honest and let you know it was a little derivative. I would recommend this one, but would throw you Tony Hillerman first. The plot line, and action are very similar, and the characters are just a combination of Jim Chee and Joe Leaphorn.
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