The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

Alexie, S. (2007). The absolutely true diary of a part-time Indian. NY: Little Brown. Junior believes that in order to get a good education, he must leave the rez, or reservation, and attend a school where he is definitely in the minority. Problem is, Junior has to travel far for classes. When he gets to school, he doe not fit in very well. Junior decides to be himself and to work hard in classes and try to make friends, too. Along the way, Junior experiences some losses that make him question his place on and off the rez. Ultimately, Junior decides his education is worth the sacrifice. This book makes me laugh out loud in places. When Junior and his friend discuss how good books give the reader boomers, I guffawed. I think kids will, too. Developmental tasks are apparent in Junior's story. Havighurst talks about changing relationships with parents, and we do see Junior negotiating those changes as he asks his parents' permission to attend a different school. We also see evidence of changing relationships with peers. Note: This book is frequently on the banned/challenged list as it touches on some topics that make adults "squeamish." However, it is the winner of the National Book Award, has numerous positive reviews, and is developmentally appropriate for middle school readers. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBko_fui-i4 Here is a link to one of the book trailers for Alexie's novel. Here is the cover for Alexie's newest project, a picture book.