I’ve had this on my to-read list, but it wasn’t until the Cannonball Book Club chose this as their August pick that I was propelled to bump this up on my list. Focusing on a member of the Spokane River tribe, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian shows us what it’s like for Arnold who exists in two different worlds. He soon realizes that his potential is limited by staying on the reservation, but leaving the reservation and going to nice school nearby comes with challenges. Amongst all of the white kids, his “Indian-ness” becomes an obstacle to integrating into the school’s culture. Back on the rez, because he left, he’s treated like a traitor. Did I mention that he’s only 15?
The voice of Native Americans is really lacking in American literature. I’m really sad that there’s not more writers who give us a view into a world that many people either ignore or are ignorant of. I’m glad that Sherman Alexie has given us a glimpse into the lives of Spokane River tribe. For me it showed me that while the reservations across the U.S. have their own governments and cultures there is more that connects us than divides us.
I was shocked at the world that Arnold and his best friend, Rowdy, inhabit. Not because I don’t think it’s real, but because it is. At the same time, Alexie showed readers that those young men are people too. He stripped away the “other” and brought out their humanity. For teens and adults I think this is a great read that’s entertaining and eye-opening.