The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian was one hell of a ride. I wasn't sure what to expect when I picked it up, but I was instantly drawn in. The voice was so strong I was "inhaled" by this book. All too quickly, I was immersed in Alexie's page-turner and was almost unable to put it down. It read like candy, if that's possible. Candy for the soul. I was blown away, really. I laughed, was shocked, and even teared-up more than once. I love it when a book plays the strings of my emotions. When my emotions come suddenly and fiercely while reading I know I'm reading something excellent. Grazie, Mr. Alexie.
Several aspects of this book linger with me as I type this: 1) The language; 2) The candor; 3) The complexity of issues raised; and 4) The sheer exuberance of the style. First, the language is familiar and colloquial, and rolls around the pages in the vernacular of teenagers easily and fluidly. I felt like I was in the head of a bright teenager wise beyond his years. Arnold Spirit used language that was funny and shocked me, but then again, when I really think about it, that is how I talked at that age. Most of the words are the same, I guess, just jazzy all 21st Century-like. Bottom-line: the language was immersive, and I bought Junior's interior monologues.
I guess I had forgotten how brutal teenagers are. The candor in this book by this character reminded me. It was awesome and human. As much as Junior's candor made me uncomfortable at times, it rang true. As much as I don't necessarily need to be reminded of hormonal overflow, boners at inopportune moments, and gross-out humor, I remember it well, and reengaged with it quickly, maybe too quickly. I typically respond well to reading "truth" from a writer, and I always appreciate it. Truth can be ugly, but it works for me.
Wow, did Sherman touch on some powerfully complex ideas, or what? I loved it. I am a questioner and a thinker, usually intellectually fearless, and willing to play with ideas when I read. This book rocked me in the way it illuminates issues I have always been interested in, specifically the plight of some American natives. In a simple, yet profound, way, this book speaks volumes about perception, and the way we perceive each other, and I loved it for exposing our shared humanity.
Finally, the sheer exuberance of style Alexie utilized lingers with me most. I thought the addition of comics was compelling and effective. The words and sentences flowed like stream of consciousness in a way, and I suspect this helped me "breathe through" this book so quickly. I am amazed how deftly Sherman created the space and delivered the goods. It worked for me on so many levels, and I continue to be amazed how easily I connected with this text. The style reflects the breathless drive of the teenage mind for me, and I was engrossed from start to finish.
So, in conclusion, this book rocked. Thanks.
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