The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian: Sherman Alexie

Title: The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian Author: Sherman Alexie
Publisher: Little Brown Books for Young Readers


Media Format: Book
Genre: Ethnic experience in fiction
Selection Source: Linda Alexander
Reading Audience: Junior High +
Reading Recommendation: 4 ****
Curriculum Connection: Any class that deals with Native American Experience


Summary
Arnold (Junior) Spirit is a teenage American Indian who lives on a reservation in Washington state. He's frail of body (although he's a good basketball player), but he's bright of mind. This of course doesn't not prevent him from getting his ass kicked on a regular basis by the other Indians on the rez. Fighting is one of the biggest hobbies for the Indians on the rez, and unfortunately, Arnold's not too good at it. One of Arnold's teachers recognizes that Arnold is too smart to live on the rez. He'll never be able to fulfill his potential. Despite strong objections from his best friend, who feels like it's a personal betrayal, he decides to attend a school twenty miles away where he will be the only Indian (besides the mascot). After a rough beginning, Arnold actually gets on quite well at the new school. His new best friend is the smartest kid in the school, his new girlfriend is the prettiest, and he makes the varsity basketball team as a freshman. That does not stop the perpetual alcohol induced tragedies from affecting the rez and his family. He has to struggle with his new success, and the lack of progress of his friends and family.


Evaluation
This is an extremely enjoyable, readable book. The protagonist is likable and self-aware in an always self-deprecating fashion. I would recommend this book for anyone twelve and up. There is some feisty language, and multiple references to masturbation, but it's pretty PG-13. Despite multiple tragic moments, the book is humorous and optimistic.