Monument Valley is the classic wild western scenery, used in countless of movies. The jaw-dropping views will transport you to another place. Today, it is part of the Navajo nation.
I donāt know about you, but I love to read books about the places I travel. I usually read a mix of fiction and non-fiction, in addition to guide books and the occasional coffee table keepsake.
Here is my top pick for the best books about Monument Valley to inspire you before you go, keep you entertained while you are there and help preserve your memories after you return home.
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Tall Sheep: Harry Goulding, Monument Valley Trader (1992), Samuel Moon
This book provides an insight into a pivotal time in the history of Monument Valley.Ā Ā It tells the story of Harry Goulding (called āTall Sheepā by the Navajo people) who ran a trading post with his wife Mike in Monument Valley from 1925 to 1963.Ā
The Goulding Hotel still exists today.Ā Their story is set amidst the backdrop of the establishment of a Navajo tribal government and the introduction of a cash-based society, the construction of roads and the mining of uranium, forced stock reduction for the Navajos to limit overgrazing, and the height of the Westerns film industry based in Monument Valley.Ā
It was a fascinating time in history and the personal stories of the Gouldings and the Navajo people is equally fascinating.
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Rock with Wings (2015), Anne Hillerman
This is a fun murder mystery set in Monument Valley and nearby Spider Rock, featuring Navajo tribal police as the crime solvers.Ā Itās billed as a Leaphorn, Chee & Manuelito Novel after the three main characters.Ā The author also wrote the New York Times bestselling book Spider Womanās Daughter.
This is the perfect vacation read ā nothing too serious, but set in your vacation destination, which helps bring it to life.
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Monument Valley: Navajo Nation Natural Wonder (2015), A. Markward, D. MuenchĀ
This is a great coffee table book.Ā The beautiful photos and accompanying text capture both the natural and human story of Monument Valley.Ā
Breathtaking photos of the landscape and more intimate photos of the Navajo people make this a wonderful keepsake of your vacation to Monument Valley.
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ā”ļø If you love reading about national parks, check out more books about national parks.
Planning Resources for Monument Valley
Are you planning a trip to Monument Valley? use these resources to help you:
ā Monument Valley Guide
ā Planning A Trip To Monument Valley: 7 Mistakes To Avoid
ā Guide To Hiking The Wildcat Trail
ā How To Get To Monument Valley
ā All the The Airports Near Monument Valley
ā The Closest Airport To Monument Valley
ā The Best Time To Visit Monument Valley
ā Visiting Monument Valley: What To Expect Throughout The Year
ā 10 Fun Facts About Monument Valley
ā 10 Tips For Visiting Monument Valley
Do you have any other books about Monument Valley that you recommend? Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know.
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ā¼ļø Are you looking for helpful tips for visiting US national parks? Read articles that share useful tips on a range of national-park related issues
š» Are you starting to plan a trip to Monument Valley? Read my Guide to Monument Valley
š² Are you ready to book your trip? Use these Planning and Booking Resources
š Do you want to read a book about Monument Valley? Check out my Recommended Reading List
About the ReviewerĀ
James Ian is aĀ national park, campingĀ andĀ hiking expert.
He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of theĀ national parksĀ in the United States. WithĀ over 35 years experienceĀ in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as aĀ travel plannerĀ whoās helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.
Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James hasĀ published detailed itinerariesĀ for many of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well asĀ in-depth park guides, and other resources will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.
As a national park expert, James has contributed to manyĀ publications, including USA Today, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.
Iām a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.