"The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" by Sherman Alexie

"The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian", by Sherman Alexie, is an inspiring story; it explores complicated concepts and themes that are prevalent in everyday life. This text sends powerful messages in regards to overcoming and making the best out of difficult and almost impossible scenarios that typically have a huge impact upon a young person’s life as they move on from tough times just to be bombarded with more. Only a few good times of reprieve help the main character, Junior maintain a positive perspective and focus on his hopes and dreams.

Some of these concepts may be a bit heavy but they need to be explored in the school setting. Typical High school life, from what I personally remember from my time as a high school student, was very sheltered. This text acknowledges the difficulties in life that students may be dealing with outside of the classroom such as death of loved ones, dependency on alcohol and recreational drug use. Even racial, stereotypeification factors into these topics.

As an instructor, it is important for me to understand that some of my students may seek to look up to me as a mentor and might be searching for subtle examples on how to survive in this crazy world of ours without gong completely mad. In a world where it is impossible to shelter children and young adults from the struggles of the world outside the classroom it is important to explore connections with others where friendships can be fostered and help alleviate the extreme stress that eats away at us all. Every little bit helps. "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" by Sherman Alexie explores these concepts in a very relatable way and provides some insight on how to handle these struggles and cope with them. It provides instructors with material for some very real teachable moments.