Module 15: The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

by Sherman Alexie

Summary: Ever since the day Arnold was born, he was destined to a life of hardship.  Arnold was born with encephalitis.  Due  to his disabilities, Arnold has a hard time fitting in on the reservation.  With the encouragement of his teacher, Arnold decides to leave the reservation for school and attend school at the closes public school.  Arnold knows that making this move will isolate him from the others on the rez even more.  He decides to go anyway and even plays for the schools basketball team.  


Alexie, S. (2008). The absolutely true diary of a part-time indian. New York, NY: Little Brown and Company.

My Impression:  This book gets an B+ for high school students.  Some of the slang and phrases in this book could be viewed as highly offensive which is why this book is getting a slightly lower grade.  That being said, the author does a great job of writing in a style that will appeal to avid and reluctant readers alike.  His humor will keep you laughing and wanting to read more.  Overall, this book was a great read!
 

Professional Reviews:

Library Media Connection (January 1, 2008)

This novel features a hard-luck teenager who is dealing with several issues.  Arnold was born with encephalitis, and he has several disabilities.  He grew up on a reservation, and every aspect of "rez" life is discussed; it is not a flattering portrayal.  When Arnold throws his math book in frustration, it hits his teacher.  Events spiral and Arnold decides to attend school off the reservation, which causes major conflict.  Author Sherman Alexie writes whit humor and wit.  The story is bittersweet and intense; events are sometimes shocking, but the author does an excellent job of keeping the novel moving at an interesting pace.  Reluctant readers would enjoy the changes of fonts and the humor of our not-so-mainstream hero.

Garrett, E. (2008, January 1). The absolutely true diary of a part-time indian  [Review of the book The absolutely true diary of a part-time indian, by S. Alexie]. Library Media Connection, 26(4), 75. Retrieved from http://www.librarymediaconnection.com/

Library Uses:  This title would be great for use in a Banned Books Week display along with other titles that have earned their spot on this list.