The Absolute True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

The Absolute True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexei is a story about a young adolescent who tries to find out who he is and how he fits in when he switches schools and goes to the white kids school off of the reservation. Most of us in America try not to think of the living conditions of the Native Americans on the reservations. This book attempts to capture a little sliver of the bleakness of the reservation while also showing that there is still hope for the people there. The book tells the tale of a young boy Arnold who, after he throws a book at his teacher, is advised to transfer schools to the white kid school off the reservation; not because he is a troubled student, but because he has potential and they do not want to see that potential ruined at the school on the reservation. The book tells the tale of Arnold's first year in that school and covers everything from basketball to a "romance" with a local white girl. While all of this is going on, Arnold's former best friend Rowdy's anger is growing and the anger is directed at one person, Arnold. The story culminates in two basketball games. The first game between the white kid high school (Rearden) and the high school on the reservation that Rowdy attends. Rearden high school, with the help of Arnold, wins the game and ruins an undefeated season for the reservation high school. As summer arrives feelings between Rowdy and Arnold are still very strained until Arnold and Rowdy play a one on one basketball game at the local court and they do not keep score. Their past woes are forgotten and the reader gets the feeling that they will slowly, but surely recover their friendship from the wreckage of Arnold switching schools.

This story was entertaining, but altogether very juvenile. It showed an adolescent overcoming his obstacles, but it is told in a very juvenile way and seems meant for a younger reader. The story, however, does have some lessons to be learned. The first being that one cannot quit when the going gets tough. One must persevere and overcome the challenges put in front of him. Many kids have changed schools in their lives, but not many have experienced such a drastic change in scenery as Arnold did. It gives one some perspective on what their live really is like and how bad it could be. It is very easy to connect to if one has moved or changed schools in their lifetime, but I have not and it was difficult for me to truly relate to Arnold in a meaningful way. Alexei teaches that there is a point in fighting against the adversity and depression of the circumstances that we are put in and that if we keep trying we can be just like Arnold and overcome these obstacles to have a happy life.

This was really a unique and different story. Alexei attempts to bring the reader along Arnold's journey through adolescence and growing up. And while it is a sad life, with the death of his sister and the loss of his best friend, he shows that there is still hope in the world. The night is also darkest before the dawn and there is always a reason to have hope that things will turn out alright. It is important to never stop fighting and never give up on your dreams.

Out of 10 total part time Indians, I give this book 6 and a half part time Indians. The half isn't really half a person, just not an adult yet.

Speaker-
The story is told in a first person point of view and it really feels like the voice of a teenage kid, like he is telling you his story.

Occasion-
The book takes place in modern times on an Indian reservation in Washington. It takes on a bleak setting to mimic the bleakness of the reservation.

Audience-
The audience is young adults. From ages 12-14. Many people could read this book but the language in the book is more geared towards a younger audience.

Purpose-
The purpose of this book is to tell the story of a young boy who experiences great change and sadness in his life. Alexei stresses the importance of not giving and and perseverance. He wrote the book to show kids who change schools and experience change that it can be overcome if they keep their head up and keep trying.

Style-
The writing style closely resembles a narrative. Most of the writing feels like it is written by a fourteen year old and much of the language takes on the mannerisms of someone that age. It makes the book a very quick and easy read as it just seems like you are listening to a young child tell his story.
Tone-
The tone in this book is very bleak but there is always an essence of hope in it. He wants the reader to know that there is always a reason to keep fighting and that there is always a reason to hope. It has a tone of sadness for the plight of the Indian and it is clear that Alexei feels that they have been mistreated.