THE ABSOLUTELY TRUE DIARY OF A PART-TIME INDIAN

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Sherman Alexie is a well known author for his works such as War Dances, Flight, Reservation Blues and other adult titles. Many of his stories are based on his own personal experiences. 

He was born on the Spokane Indian Reservation in Wellpinit Washington, where he spent much of his childhood.

His debut YA novel was based on his own childhood experiences on the reservation, and his need to break free in search of a better education. 

His novel The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian won the 2007 National Book Award for Young People's Literature.

Sherman Alexie ( Oct. 1966-)

     

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian 

Junior wanted more. He found himself limited on the rez, the education mediocre at best. This became apparent to him when he opened his textbook and saw his mother's name printed inside the front cover. He had had a decision to make, one in which would impact the rest of his life.  

With a thirst for learning and a love of reading, Junior a budding cartoonist left behind the familiarity of the rez school  in search of a better education. He took the long walk each day leaving behind the Spokane Reservation to attend the farming community's all white high school.  


It took time for Junior to find his place, at first rejected by he peers. He was looked upon as an outsider in his new school, and rejected by his friends and peers on the rez, who saw him as a traitor, abandoning his heritage and roots.  

Over time Junior etched out his place, one in which he shined academically at school, but also retained the importance and connection with his own heritage. 

Sherman Alexie has shared with the reader an insight to life on a First Nations Reservation, the beauty in culture and traditions, and also the pitfalls and limitations. 


The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, is written with a pureness and honesty,  tackling issues of prejudice and segregation and Juniors courage to rise above. 


A must read! It is classified as a YA novel, but can be enjoyed by advanced upper middle grade readers and adults alike.    


Happy reading,
Bye Rosalyne