Sacred Clowns

Sacred Clowns by Tony Hillerman, published by Harper Collins on June 10, 1994, is a mystery novel that intertwines elements of traditional and historical fiction. The story unfolds during a kachina ceremony at the Tano pueblo, where the vibrant antics of a dancing koshare are abruptly overshadowed by the discovery of the clown’s brutal murder, echoing a recent crime involving a reservation schoolteacher.

In this edition, readers will follow Officer Jim Chee and Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn as they investigate the clown’s death, believing that the key to solving the case lies in the sacred clown’s final message to the Tano people. Their pursuit leads them into the depths of tribal secrets, revealing connections to a runaway, a holy artifact, and corrupt traders. This narrative explores themes of police procedural and suspense, set against a backdrop of Navajo culture and law enforcement. With 354 pages, this English-language edition offers a deep dive into a complex mystery that challenges the characters’ understanding of their heritage and the law.