The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

The Truth: I'm a Girl, I'm Smart and I Know EverythingAs a psychologist and author of a fictional diary for girls, tweens and teens, THE TRUTH (I'm a girl, I'm smart and I know everything) I was so impressed with this book. Like THE TRUTH, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian gently leads the reader to an in depth understanding of the main character. We fall in love with him and all his painful realities. He ends up a charmer with many messages. Just as the girl in The Truth teaches our kids to stay true to themselves, so does this book leave the reader with extra energy and courage to stay true to himself while riding the rocky road of a full life. Again, as a psychologist and an educator I'm glad there are now several wonderful diaries with great heros and heroines out there for our youngsters to relate, identify with with and grow stronger emotionally as they grow up! Dr. Barbara Becker Holstein, www.thetruthforgirls.com

Junior is just another unlucky kid living on an Indian reservation, but unfortunately, he's even unluckier than most. He was born with brain damage and a strangely disproportioned body, which causes him to be alternately beat up and ridiculed by all the other kids on the reservation except his only friend Rowdy. Junior might be smart and a good artist, but growing up in poverty and surrounded by alcoholics and broken dreams makes him believe that he's destine to the same life he's always had. But the wise advice from a teacher prompts Junior to take control of his life and fight against what little is expected of him. And despite animosity from nearly every side, this unlucky kid is determined to succeed.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is both profound and humorous, making for a very enjoyable read. Junior's frank voice made for plenty of deep thoughts and giggles. Junior was so interesting to read about, both because of his character and circumstances. I found Junior to be surprisingly mature for his age, and it made him seem older than he actually was, but then again, this maturity may have arisen from his difficult life. Life on the reservation was realistically portrayed, as heartbreaking as it was. Drawing and art did not play as large a role in Junior's life as I would've thought; instead, sports, particularly basketball, were central to Junior's struggle for success. This novel definitely left me with that warm fuzzy feeling that can inspire anyone to strive to accomplish their dreams, no matter how far-fetched. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is a fun and heartwarming read about life and death, friendship and family.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is a feel-good novel while still retaining its authenticity. Fans of this story's message will also enjoy Flygirl by Sherri L. Smith.

I purchased a book in the bookstore recently. It is called "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" by Sherman Alexie. Just by reading a little while in the bookstore, I thought it was going to be lighthearted and funny. However, I could not put it down once I started reading it. When I closed it for the final time yesterday, I felt so heavy-hearted. There are times when you laugh and times when you cry. It is one of the most beautifully and sensitively written books I have ever read and I am an English major. I have read a whole lot of books in my lifetime. The book is about a young teenage boy growing up on the Spokane Indian Reservation. He decides to break away from the difficult life living on the rez and decides to attend the white school on the outside, trying to escape the poverty and difficulties of living on the rez in order to survive and preserve his identity. It is based on Alexie's real life experiences as a young teen. Even though this book is directed towards young adults, I would like to encourage everyone to read this book. It is one that will stay with you long after you close the book.

This is an amazing coming of age novel that also encompasses a young man straddling two cultures and triumphing.

Truly a wonderful book. I initially picked it up because I thought I could use it in my 6th grade classroom, after reading it I found the language was much more advanced and not appropriate for 11 year olds, but I fell in love with this book. A must read for any age!