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janagaton's review against another edition
4.0
This was the first fiction novel assigned in my Young Adult Literature class in college, and I enjoyed it a lot. I loved the graphic novel-esque format Alexie chose for this book because it really gives the reader insight to Junior's teenage mind. Alexie includes themes such as bullying, racism towards Native Americans, classism, and coming of age and translates them into a language catered toward young adult readers. The incorporated humor helps lighten up a lot of the more serious topics as well, making it more appropriate for the young adult genre.
moniska89's review against another edition
funny
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
envy4's review against another edition
5.0
An amazing book, so good I couldn't put it down. A nbook has never made me laugh so hard or want to cry so suddenly.
agenericmirkwoodelf's review against another edition
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
3.5 round up! Important story, a few icks!
I think this is a book that needs to exist. It’s a powerful story with a lot of charm and wit, yet it remains incredibly grounded throughout. It says a lot of things that need to be said, and being semi-autobiographical, every character feels real.
That said, I do think it handles some issue poorly. Obviously, being autobiographical as it is, the author is free to discuss the protagonist’s issues however he likes. However, I felt like some of the other issues in the book were handled pretty poorly- particularly surrounding the character Penelope. I understand the POV character is an unabashedly thirsty teenage boy, and the narrative style is allowed to reflect that, but it felt absolutely wrong to read about-
[Spoilers + TW]
I think this is a book that needs to exist. It’s a powerful story with a lot of charm and wit, yet it remains incredibly grounded throughout. It says a lot of things that need to be said, and being semi-autobiographical, every character feels real.
That said, I do think it handles some issue poorly. Obviously, being autobiographical as it is, the author is free to discuss the protagonist’s issues however he likes. However, I felt like some of the other issues in the book were handled pretty poorly- particularly surrounding the character Penelope. I understand the POV character is an unabashedly thirsty teenage boy, and the narrative style is allowed to reflect that, but it felt absolutely wrong to read about-
[Spoilers + TW]
- how “incredibly sexy” this character was immediately after learning she struggled with ED.
That’s just my take, though! :)
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcoholism, Gun violence, Bullying, Homophobia, Child abuse, Racial slurs, Drug abuse, Classism, and Racism
Moderate: Eating disorder, Sexism, Emotional abuse, and Car accident
drridareads's review against another edition
1.0
I'm changing my rating from 4 to 1 star because of sexual misconduct allegations against the writer.
(Google it or here's a link about Sexual Misconduct in Children's Book Publishing
I also realise that besides this I don't think I have read other Native American writer's works. So I'll be looking that up and if you have suggestions please let me know.
(Google it or here's a link about Sexual Misconduct in Children's Book Publishing
I also realise that besides this I don't think I have read other Native American writer's works. So I'll be looking that up and if you have suggestions please let me know.
goodem9199's review against another edition
4.0
REALLY good. I listened to the audio which was done by the author, and he was hysterical. Shed alot of light on the plight of modern day Native Americans, that I don't think we hear nearly enough of.
katieinca's review against another edition
4.0
Damn. Sherman Alexie doesn't pull any punches, does he?
Very boy-centric, very nail-on-the-head for this age. And therefore not destined to be one that lives close to my heart, but pitch perfect at what it is.
Very boy-centric, very nail-on-the-head for this age. And therefore not destined to be one that lives close to my heart, but pitch perfect at what it is.
evaorbit's review against another edition
4.75
Such an amazing and beautiful book. I was immediately sucked in and finished it in 2 days. I cried so much. The way that this teaches you about this tribe through the lens of a 14 year old is so well done. It felt so raw and genuine and painful and joyful. Great for middle schoolers but also everyone.
joana_stormblessed's review against another edition
4.0
I am surprised i enjoyed this book as much as i did
annika2304's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.5