I recently received a copy of this novel from the free World Book Night. Let me be clear, they didn't host an event in Blanding... Chris is simply friends with a local pawn shop that received copies of this novel from Moab. I had heard about this novel once from a free UEN course on multicultural literature. When I picked it up, I figured I would be reading a memoir about growing up Indian in a Caucasian world. I was WRONG! Yes, the author based the book on his own experiences as a resident on the Spokane, Washington, Indian reservation, but this book is as funny as can be. I openly admit that I do not think it is appropriate for young adult readers unless they are as mature as a high school graduate. There is questionable language, questionable content, and a lot of humor thrown on racism. As an adult I really enjoyed reading this novel. As an educator I wish that it was appropriate for middle school students. I would read it with my ELD (almost all Native American students) class in a heartbeat. However I will have to pass it for another life. If I ever become a professor of multicultural literature, I will have this novel in my syllabus!
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