This delightful, enduring story is about a fourteen year old boy, Junior, who was diagnosis with hydrocephalus (water on the brain) and suffers many physical ailments because of it. Not only that but Junior is severely bullied as well. While living on the reservation, Junior sometimes has to wait to get his medical issues fixed; such as, getting his ten extra teeth pulled in one session. Now that's painful! Junior's family is dirt poor and it makes it difficult to get what they need, and to top it off Junior loses his dog, Oscar, because the family can't afford the veterinarian trip. Through all the obstacles Junior begins to achieve some success and continues to overcome his shortcomings by getting off the Rez and attending an all white school to better himself academically. Though many on the Rez believe that Junior is a traitor those that know him and those who begin to know him understand why he must make this drastic move.
I enjoyed reading this story for all the challenges and experiences that Junior (the author) went through. This is such a heart felt story that made me cry so many times with the countless death that this boy had to go through, and losing his friend, Rowdy, for a time until the end. This story made me think of Gabi: a girl in pieces and her family's issues; like her father's drug addiction is similar to Junior's dads drinking. I believe young preteens and older would enjoy this touching book and really learn from Junior to never give up on what you're fighting for. Prepare the Kleenex for the strong emotions.
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