With a Drawing of Jim Chee

The Blessing Way [Drawing, Signed, Numbered]

Hillerman, Tony; illustrated by Ernest Franklin

Publication: Albuquerque, NM: Sidewinder Publications, 2006. First Thus.

Notes: One of 100 signed copies of this re-issue of Tony Hillerman's first book, with a fine portrait of the main character, Lt. Joe Leaphorn, by Ernest Franklin on the first blank. Ernest Franklin was a Navajo artist who liked embellishing Hillerman's books with drawings reflecting Native culture.

This new edition (the original came out in 1970) is illustrated from line drawings by Franklin and includes an introduction by Ernie Bulow. There were 2000 hardcovers, 500 signed and numbered hardcovers in a nicer binding, and this issue of 100 deluxe copies with an original Franklin drawing. 224 pages.

SOURCE: The Texas collector Tom Garner. He had some Hillerman; he also liked to support new publishers of collectible books, like Sidewinder Publications, by buying multiple copies of their limited editions.

Edition + Condition: A fine copy in a fine dust jacket. This is no. 8 of 100 with an original drawing by Franklin of Lt. Joe Leaphorn in a colorful background reminiscent of a Navajo rug. Signed by Hillerman, Franklin, and Bulow on the title page. Franklin also signed his drawing. In a fine slipcase.

Item No: #364122

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