The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

Alexie, S., & Forney, E. (2007). The absolutely true diary of a part-time Indian. New York: Little, Brown.

Summary: 

Junior the main character is a unique cartoonist that decides to change his “written” future and take life “by the horns.”  He refuses to remain just another Spokane Indian in the Reservation.  While his journey has just begun Junior, encounters major tragedies that change his life completely.  From his grandmother’s and sister’s passing which he never truly overcomes, he decides to do something drastically and unexpected.   Junior decides to change schools and attend the nearby all-white town farm high school.  His future definitely changes but, for the best.  When Junior’s father passes away he decides to recover his friendship with his best friend and this makes him understand that change can be good.

Strengths:
This book can be geared for an intended audience of readers ranging from ages 13 and up.  The author Alexie's genre in this book focuses on Native Americans and their struggles in living and being raised inside a reservation.  The character Junior is relatable to the intended audience because of the many struggles of trying to "fit in" in today's modern life.

Teaching Ideas:

• PDF Reading Guide
• Author: Sherman Alexie Website
• Author Speaks about "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian"

AWARDS:

2007 National Book Award Winner

The New York Times Book Review Notable Books of 2007 (children's books)
NYPL Books for the Teen Age 2008
2007 PW "Off the Cuff" Awards: Favorite YA Novel,
2007 Horn Book Fanfare Best Books of the Year
2007 Kirkus Reviews Best YA Books
2007 School Library Journal Best Books of the Year
2007 Publishers Weekly's Best Books of the Year
A Boston Globe-Horn Book Award Winner

Other Books by the Author: