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Tony Hillerman is the best-selling author of the Jim Chee/Joe Leaphorn mysteries. Now he tells his own story in an unforgettable memoir. In its pages, fans will find the answer to the question the author is most often asked: How does he know so much about Native American culture? But they will also hear about a rich life, filled with an unfailing optimism, that extends far beyond the world of his novels. Starting with his childhood in Oklahoma during the Great Depression, Hillerman's memoir covers a remarkable 76 years. It follows his military service in World War II to his current success. Along the way, Hillerman encounters people who have profoundly affected him and his way of thinking. Hillerman's in-depth memoir is made even more personal by his riveting narration. Seldom Disappointed is a warm and witty look into the making of an author.… (more)
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Hillerman begins with
I had not known of Hillerman's war service until I read his obituary, which mentioned that he had been awarded a Silver Star. He tells the story of being an infantryman in Europe during the difficult fighting of 1944 and 1945 with the modesty we have come to expect from the "Greatest Generation." He also continues, as he does throughout the book, to point out instances of good fortune and how events that seemed bad at the time led to life-changing experiences.
The post-war years found Hillerman finishing college, meeting and marrying his wife Marie, beginning a career in journalism, and forming, with Marie, a family of one biological child and five adopted ones; then moving into academia and finally writing his first novel, [book: The Blessing Way]. Throughout, Hillerman comes across as a person I would have been glad to know, and have been privileged, along with many others, to know through his work. I would recommend reading his novels first, but if you've read all of them and would like just a bit more Hillerman, read this book.