The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian
Books like this make me realize that I've become complacent. Others that I've read that I thought were worthy of a 5 star rating I now realize I over rated. It's literature like The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian that really sets the mold for the books that truly deserve five stars.
I'm not sure what to say, and partly that's because trying to talk about it sends more tears streaming down my face. Books like this one, or Crazy, Jellicoe Road, The Piper's Son or Looking for Alaska... they just slide right to that one vulnerable spot inside you, giving you a dose of a very realistic view of the world. A view that can make some people very uncomfortable.
It's a damn shame to me that this book is one of the highest 'banned' books out there. Yes it discusses racism, but that is a realism in this world that can't be hidden or covered up if it is ever going to be confronted. I'd say that it's books like this that should be REQUIRED reading.
The world could use a dose self-reflection, and it could use a good size helping of compassion too. And that's what this book, and others offer.
Fear not, self-reflection isn't necessarily depressing. It's also funny, and awkward and immensely enjoyable; I promise.
