Alexie, S. (2007). The absolutely true diary of a part-time Indian. NY: Hatchet Book Group USA. ISBN: 978031613680
Plot Summary: Junior is a high school student who grows up on the Spokane Indian Reservation in Seattle. Although he was born with health problems and is constantly bullied, he still has a positive take on life. He realizes that he will be able to receive a better education if he were to attend the white school which is located miles away. His decision to make the move changes the way his best friend, Rowdy, and the rest of the people on his rez feels about him. He is seen as a traitor. Although he goes through extreme measures to attend his new school, he meets certain people that give him the confidence to be the person he wants to be.
Critical Evaluation: I love the way the author incorporates illustrated comics to match highlights in each chapter. Not only are the illustrations hilarious, but his writing is constructed in such an articulate manner. His writing style is honest and straight to the point. Readers will really feel as if they are reading straight out of somebody's journal. Many people do not get the perspective of a teen's experience on the reservation. This book is great for anyone who has been outcast for what doing what they love and believe in. Junior's story is inspiring and will make you laugh until you cry and cry until you laugh.
Information about the Author: Sherman Alexie has won several awards for his short stories and poems. He is also a filmmaker who wrote the screenplay for Smoke Signals. He currently lives in Seattle.
Annotation: Junior experiences life outside of the reservation at his new high school, but is shunned by his friends and community for doing what he feels is best for his future.
Genre: Diaries and Identity
Curriculum Ties: Ethics
Booktalking Ideas: Ask students what they know about Indian reservations. Explain how and why Junior wants study at a school outside of the rez and how it changes him as a person.
Reading Level/Interest Age: 9th-12th grade
Challenge Issues: treatment of people on Indian reservations and male masturbation
Reason for Inclusion: The author has a wonderful talent for writing and has the gift of capturing the interest of readers young and old. He is a great storyteller and incorporates humor kids can relate to.
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