Book Review: 'The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian' by Sherman Alexie

✰✰✰✰✰ Arnold (Junior) Spirit is the town misfit. Born with "water on the brain," the odds have always been stacked against him. Life was a challenge from day 1, but luckily Junior was also born with a sense of humor and is surprisingly bright. After challenging a teacher in class, Junior is sure he will be in big trouble. Yet, the teacher surprises him with his honestly. It's a moment that will change the trajectory of Junior's life as he is inspired to make a big decision. 

Making the switch from the high school on the rez to the predominantly white high school in the nearby town is a huge deal...for everyone. Junior doesn't immediately fit in at his new school, but now his former friends at his old school treat him like a traitor. Junior finds himself navigating between the two worlds even as tragedy strikes his family several times. Nevertheless, Junior perseveres. Join Junior's journey from misfit to hero as he learns about life and what it takes to get by in this world.

The Bottom Line: When a school committee in my hometown, suggested removing this book from its high school required reading list, I just had to pick it up to see why. Yes, it's filled with racial slurs, discrimination, and sexual situations, but this book is a gem. This is just the kind of book that should be included on high school reading lists because of the honesty that comes through in the writing. Written from the point of view of a 14-year-old, Native American boy, this gripping novel is gritty, witty, and raw.  There is so much to discuss in this coming-of-age novel. There are no wasted words here, and Ellen Forney's art is spot-on in depicting what a teen might draw. Highly recommended for young adults, teachers, and parents. I strongly suggest you pick this powerful book up and give it a read even if it makes you uncomfortable. Or maybe, especially if it makes you uncomfortable.

Details: The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie with art by Ellen Forney. Hardcover published by Little, Brown and Company in 2007. 229 p. ISBN: 978-0-316-01368-0