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

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian
by Sherman Alexie
reviewed by Marina Francis 

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie is the story of a Native American boy named Junior who lives on a small Spokane reservation. He is different from all the other Indians on the reservation because of his multiple hindrances. However, Junior does not let the other Indians damper his spirit, and makes the decision to attend a white high school across the town. Some of the people support his decisions, like his parents, but others react badly and leave him, like his best friend Rowdy. The title of the book reflects what Junior has to live through. He has to fit in at his white high school, and go home and be an Indian at the reservation. Throughout the course of the book, Junior learns important lessons about family, friends, and girlfriends, and illustrates what he learns through his diary and comics.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian breaks through the racial boundaries that Junior has to live with. It is a great book for anyone who loves honesty and some dark humor. Junior’s comics sprinkled throughout the book convey what he feels in a way his words can’t. As the story progresses, Junior finds more ways to get through what life throws at him, whether it’s basketball, reading, or just being with his girlfriend, Penelope. Junior discovers how to fit in with the people around him and be accepted by everyone by just being himself. Everyone who reads this book can find a way to relate to Junior, and find some familiarity with him.