The cover of this book reminds me of the only other book I have ever read about Indians, THE INDIAN IN THE CUPBOARD! But that was not truly about Indians, but THE ABSOLUTELY TRUE DIARY OF A PART-TIME INDIAN by Sherman Alexie tells about a modern day Native American boy, his struggles on the reservation, and desire to make his life something more. Not only did this book make the top ten of the 2008 Best Books for Young Adults, but it also was the National Book Award Winner for 2007.
Arnold Spirit, Jr., has been fighting the odds since birth. After surpassing expectations when he was born with hydrocephalus, Arnold is teased at the reservation school for his lisp, stutter, and appearance. His defender, Rowdy, is the child of an abusive, alcoholic parent. But Arnold wants more out of his life. He knows he is smart but is also aware that he will not be able to achieve anything if he continues to go to school on the reservation. So Arnold chooses to go to the white school in the neighboring town. After a short struggle to be accepted, Arnold proves himself as a student and in basketball. He makes friends. These friends support him through the loss of his beloved grandmother, father's best friend, and older sister. Even though Arnold feels bad for deserting his way of life on the reservation, he knows that if he stayed there he would fall into the curse of alcoholism that so many Native Americans struggle with.
This book is a book of perseverance and having the courage to do what you know/think is the best for your future against all the criticism others throw at you. It is a good book for older middle school through high school students. Reading a book from the Native American's perspective was wonderful to experience.
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