The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian by Sherman Alexie (*****)

I am reading a book along with several students in a self-directed study class at school.  I chose the book because I thought they would like it.  I asked them to read up to chapter four for our first discussion.  They had several days to accomplish this.  The next day one of the young men in our group came to my class to speak with me.  "Mrs. Caffey, I came to say I am sorry."  "Why is that?"  I asked.  "I read half of the book when you told us only to read to chapter four.  I'm sorry, but I couldn't stop.  The story was so good and it was so much like my life."
Ah, one of the reasons I love literature so much is it allows us to recognize that there are others in the world who know our stories. When you read something that truly resonates with your own story, it's a pretty spectacular thing.  And so, for this week's read, I would like to recommend The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian by Sherman Alexie.  Alexie is one of the most popular Native American writers of our day and his story of Junior, aka Arnold Spirit, is a beautiful tale. Junior struggles with the task of being a Native Amerian in a white man's world and the pain he feels will make you want to cry alongside him. 

This is a beautiful book that employs humor and sorrow as the story of Junior unfolds.  It is one of my very favorite books and a great read whether you are fourteen or eighty!  Take a look at it, you won't be disappointed.  And, as always, happy reading!