Dance Hall Of The Dead
Dance Hall Of The Dead
Book Brief
272
Novel • Fiction
Navajo reservation, New Mexico • 1970s
1973
Adult
18+ years
870L
Super Short Summary
In Dance Hall of the Dead, Zuni boy Ernesto Cata disappears, prompting his friend George Bowlegs to search for him, but George also vanishes. Navajo Tribal Police Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn investigates, discovering complex cultural and religious elements intertwined with the boys' actions and the crimes. Sensitive topics include violence and murder, which are integral to the plot.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Dark
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
21,281 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Tony Hillerman's Dance Hall of the Dead garners praise for its intricate plot and vivid depiction of Navajo culture, offering a compelling and richly atmospheric mystery. Critics appreciate the strong character development and Hillerman's ability to intertwine cultural elements with suspense. However, some note a slower pace in parts. Overall, it remains a highly-regarded piece of crime fiction.
Who Should Read Dance Hall Of The Dead?
Readers who enjoy Tony Hillerman's Dance Hall Of The Dead are typically fans of mystery novels with a strong sense of place and cultural depth. Similar readers may appreciate books like Arthur Upfield's Bony series or Craig Johnson's Longmire mysteries, as both offer intricate plots and rich depictions of indigenous cultures.
21,281 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Dance Hall of the Dead won the Edgar Award for Best Novel in 1974, which is a prestigious award given by the Mystery Writers of America.
Tony Hillerman's depiction of Native American culture and traditions, particularly focusing on the Zuni and Navajo tribes, has been praised for its respectful and insightful portrayal.
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The novel is notable for featuring the character Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn, a Navajo Tribal Police officer who would become a central figure in many of Hillerman's subsequent novels.
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272
Novel • Fiction
Navajo reservation, New Mexico • 1970s
1973
Adult
18+ years
870L
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