TATDOAPTI+Parent+Letter

We are currently reading **//The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian//** by Sherman Alexie. This is the fourth year that I have it on my reading list and it has been truly embraced by many students at the Academic Center. When I first decided to use this book, I did have some hesitation because of the content, but when I mulled over the pros and cons, I decided to go ahead and use it. **I have no regrets about it.** First, this book examines some pretty serious social issues that our students need to begin thinking about. Many of these issues begin to emerge on their “radar” as they begin their adolescent years: bullying, sex, drugs, alcohol abuse, stereotyping and racism. Seventh grade is a seminal year for many of our students, especially coming to a large urban school like Kenwood where many of these issues, like it or not, exist.
 * A Letter To Parents **

The overall theme of my seventh grade literature list is self-discovery and I feel that this book addresses this theme head on. The author addresses all of these issues that many educators and people in general like to “tip-toe” around. It does it, however, with humor and in a style that our students can relate to.

When I introduce the novel to students, I have them read the first two chapters and page through the book to get a reaction. I also mention to them that this book has been banned in many communities and school districts. When I ask them to think why this might be, they mention the questionable language (profanity), the sexual content, and the sensitive issues of alcohol and domestic abuse. We then have a discussion if these are issues that need to be discussed at this point in time. The answer is always overwhelmingly yes. In addition, just to put parents at ease, the perspective of the main character is from a diary entry. These are personal, honest thoughts, not just //gratis// comments being thrown around. I think its important to reinforce this honest reflection among our students. I believe that our students are intelligent, progressive, open-minded individuals that can distinguish between gratuitous shock literature and thoughtful, mind provoking literature. In addition, I think that having a forum of discussion between peers about these issues take them to a higher level of how they see the novel’s characters, their community and themselves. I would also like to think that parents participate in these discussions to lead the student to realize the reality that awaits them as they mature.

Sincerely, Ivan Sarudi, Language Arts Teacher

Here are some thoughts about the novel from others who have reviewed it. In addition, I would recommend reading the post from the following website: [|Why you should read The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian Anyway]