Why did I take so long to read this book!? It's one of those 'laughter through tears' kind of stories, a semi autobiographical novel of a teen boy growing up on an Indian reservation and his struggles to succeed. I was bowled over within the first few pages, and marveled at Alexie's ability to elicit such a wide range of emotions. It is also one of those 'everyone should read it' kind of stories, to gain even the slightest understanding of what life for American Indians (or any minority) might be like in our country.

(For more reviews and bookish musings: http://www.bornandreadinchicago.com/)