2013 – The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-time Indian

2013 – The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-time Indian

ParttimeIndia

“The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-time Indian” by Sherman Alexie
Winner of the National Book Award, this semi- autobiographical work of fiction features Arnold “Junior” Spirit, a Native American youth living on the Spokane Indian Reservation who decides to expand his life opportunities by attending an all-white high school outside the reservation. As he tries to straddle both worlds, he faces many serious losses and challenges.

Though it takes on difficult subjects such as Native American cultural loss, alcoholism, bullying, and racism, the book is both funny and engaging. It is the protagonist’s keen sense of humor, indomitable spirit, irreverent speech, and creative outlets such as sports and drawing that ultimately proves his resiliency.

2013 Companion Books:

  • “The Heart of a Chief” by Joseph Bruchac
  • “Eagle Song” by Joseph Bruchac
  • “How Chipmunk Got its Stripes” by Joseph and James Bruchac

2013 Program Highlights:

Highlights from this year included an Opening Celebration featuring famed Native American storyteller and musician Joseph Firecrow, a fabulous film series exploring Native American culture, a “Family Stories Through Art” program, an online chat with the author at the Malden Teen Enrichment Center, a presentation from a local group that volunteers at the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota each summer, and a “Community Jamboree” featuring a Native American teepee exhibit and a participatory, powwow-style Parade of Community Organizations/basketball jamboree. We also held an online chat with author Sherman Alexie at the then-new teen center, and students participated in a Skype chat with author Joseph Bruchac.

Click here for a printable brochure highlighting the 2013 Malden Reads season.

Check out the Malden Reads video below: