Summary Of Poverty In The Absolutely True Diary Of A Part-Time Indian '

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Imagine walking 22 miles to school every single day. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is a book by Sherman Alexie following the life of Arnold, also known as Junior, and his struggles as a poor Native American boy going to a wealthy white school. Being poor throws challenges at Arnold in and outside of school, and he must hold onto hope, new friends, and perseverance to escape the cycle of poverty. First, Arnold’s poverty negatively affects his education. As a result of not being able to afford gas, Arnold often has to walk 22 miles to and from school. “Three times, I had to walk the whole way home. 22 miles. I got blisters each time.” (Alexie 87) This cuts down on his time for homework and opportunities to meet with teachers, …show more content…

While talking with his teacher, Mr. P, Arnold is told that he needs to go wherever there is hope. “You have to take your hope and go somewhere where other people have hope.” (Alexie 43) However, Mr. P wasn’t the only one helping Arnold. After switching from Wellpinit to Reardan, Arnold picks up some unlikely friends: Roger and Penelope. Each of them teach him something, and even keep his secret of being poor after he admits he can’t pay for going out to eat after a school dance he couldn’t even afford. “He’s not going to tell anybody. Roger likes you.” (Alexie 127) Arnold recognizes the value of these people helping him through the struggles of being the poor kid in a school dominated by students from well off families. Although he may continue to be held down by poverty, Arnold discovers that being vulnerable to friends can sometimes lead to unexpected support and people you can rely on. Arnold’s perseverance shines when he decides to attend Reardan despite its risks, and the loss of his best friend Rowdy as a result. Not letting exhaustion and the blisters on his feet take away his determination, Arnold still attends school every

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