The Boy Who Made Dragonfly

A Zuni Myth

As fans of Tony Hillerman's detective novels know, he is a skilled interpreter of southwestern Indian cultures. In this book, first published in 1972, he recounts a Zuni myth first recorded a century ago by the anthropologist Frank Hamilton Cushing. Hillerman's version of the story, written to be listened to by children ten years old and up, will have equal appeal for adults with an interest in Native American culture.

"In our society," Hillerman explains, "this would be called a 'Bible story.' Like stories based on the Old Testament, this narrative is intended to teach both the history and morality of a people." It tells the consequences of a drought in which Zuni crops were ruined and the tribe was forced to accept charity from neighboring Hopis.

©1972 Tony Hillerman (P)2023 Recorded Books

Kindness Prevails

Lovely teaching story about showing kindness, especially to those who are poor or weak as well as how dragonfly came to be.

Wonderfull way to understanding other cultures

The narrator was easy to listen to and did an excellent job of narrating this book period. The book is another example what you're an amazing versatile author Tony Hillerman is. This book is a pure joy to listen to.

Corn

Such a learning experience especially if you learned about some of the culture years ago. Now prayer feathers make more sense.

Wonderful story, told so well!

It is so good that some of the oral histories have been recorded.
Wonderful story, told so well!

Absolutely Charming!!!

This is now one of my all time favorites. I love Tony Hillerman’s books but this is by far my favorite! I do not think that anyone could have read it any better either. Thank you