We lived on the northern edge of the Navajo Reservation for eighteen years. Our friends and neighbors inspired and tickled us with their storytelling.
When we’d go down to the San Juan River, one would laugh and say, “Watch out for Water Boy!” Winter came and the shoe games were on—we were invited. “Rented lights, on! Shoes, off! What’s your bet?” Sometimes the gambling game lasted for days. It was pretty complicated (for us). It was a wild and woolly ride with the Navajo gods and creation story for all. Lots of laughs, plenty of beer.
The Anglo world and Navajo world were meshing, colliding, and introducing themselves to each other just after WWII. John Ford brought Hollywood to Navajoland when he began making movies there. Navajo guides, artists, and medicine men brought their stories and beliefs to a white world that was losing its magic. Trading posts were important community centers for everyone. A period of transition is full of juicy material, and so we set our mysteries from Navajoland during that time.
Our stories are love songs and tributes to our Navajo neighbors. Enjoy!