The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman AlexieMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved this book! It makes you feel all the feels in its depiction of life on the reservation through the eyes of Arnold Spirit, a young teen who has lived his whole life on the Spokane Indian reservation. He tells of being targeted and bullied by kids and adults alike his whole life, simply because of being percieved as weak due to health problems stemming from being born with hydrocephaly and having a generally more sensitive nature, as well as the general hopelessness of the whole population, the resistance to leaving "the rez," and perception of those who do as being traitors.
It is heartbreaking at times for sure, but Arnold, better known simply as "Junior", tells it in a very straight-forward way and with a touch of humor, and the sketches and comic panels by Ellen Forney make a great addition to the text. While the story does make the mass despair of the community, fueled by poverty, depression, and rampant alcoholsim, very clear and shows the tole it takes (Junior is only 14 and has already been to 42 funerals, and 90% of deaths are alcohol-related), it does not have an overly depressive mood, as Junior describes how his parents love him and are supportive and caring, if imperfect, and he fights for a better future. It is sad, yet also humorous and hopeful at the same time.
I know the author has now fallen out of favor due to recent allegations of sexual misconduct, but I think this is still an important book, and while I understand some may choose not to purchase it or read it because they don't want to support and imperfect author, I think it is a professional obligation to at least be familiar with it if you are a librarian or teacher. Also, I'm pretty sure if we look too closely at many famous authors we will find things we don't like. They are human and therefore flawed, and I think you have to separate your opinion of them as a person from their work.
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