Students primarly only hear about Indian reservations in lectures and textbooks.

“In class, it’s just words in a book,” said senior book club member Elise Widmer.

The reality of modern reservation life is not something people generally know much about. In Sherman Alexei’s novel he presents the struggles of Arnold “Junior” Spirit, a high school boy who lives on a reservation in Wellpinit, Washington. Alexei’s protagonist overcomes many adversities such as poverty, bullying, and losing loved ones.

Junior’s teacher, Mr.P encourages him to leave the reservation in pursuit of a better education. Leaving the reservation to go to a prodomitely white school miles away in a town called Reardan. Junior’s only friend and foil, Rowdy does not handle the news well and gives Junior a knuckle sandwhich to take back to lunch at his new school. In contrast, Junior’s parents support him. His sister, Mary follows his footsteps and moves out when she notices that her little brother is making an effort to leave the Wellpint reservation.

“I found out how much education is important him to and I take it for granted,” Jamie Flaherty said.

During his time at his new school Junior acquires a new set of friends. Gordy, the book lover; Penelope, the popular girl; and a foe turned friend, Roger lend Junior a hand when he needs it.

Alexi’s novel is illustrated by Ellen Forney and includes several doodles from Junior’s friends to the entrance of heaven. It’s part of what makes the book a light, fun read.

“He was an interesting character because of his thoughts on everything that was going on, and the drawings were quite funny,” Kat Leenders said.