Plot Summary: Living in poverty on a reservation in Washington State, Arnold Spirit has dealt with many challenges in his life. Known as Junior, he is surrounded by alcoholism on the "rez" as they call it, and can confide in only one person, his best friend Rowdy. Junior is a smart kid, a tatlented cartoonist, and a decent basketball player. When a teacher recognizes Junior's potential and suggests that he attends a better public school off of the "rez," Junior decides to it. Although it is difficult to make this decision, Junior does. He realizes that he will be considered a traitor by the rest of the people on the reservation and treated even worse than before, but makes the 22 mile trip to school every day, sometimes on foot.
Arnold's appearance in this white world throws him for a loop, and he has a hard time fitting in in a place where he has racial slurs called to him on a daily basis. Despite all the challenges, Arnold keeps his head down and works hard, and keeps his spirits up as he sees life on the reservation crumble around him. Arnold's determination and good humor in spite of his situation shine through and provide a tearjerking yet uplifting story of a fight against all odds.
Awards: National Book Award Winner
Subjects/Themes: Poverty, alcoholism, gambling, racism, high school
Reviews: Publishers Weekly Review, School Library Journal, and Booklist
Age Group: Grades 8 and up
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