Review: The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3.5 stars

A realistic portrayal of life for a teenager on an Indian reservation, and the many obstacles (family, friends, alcoholism, death, living in a white culture) that freshman, Junior Spirit, must overcome to succeed in life.

I can see why this is a mandatory book for some high schools -- many complex issues to discuss and ponder; it's extremely well written; reminds me of a PG-13 version of A Diary of a Wimpy Kid, but harsher and grittier. I can also see why it's routinely on the "banned book" list -- language, crassness, and innuendo abound.

In terms of a literary piece -- it's probably a 5 star book -- but as far as my "enjoyment" of it, more of a 3.

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