In Sherman Alexie’s typical witty style, this story recounts what turns out to be a very special day in the life of a homeless, alcoholic Native American man. The central theme, symbolized by his grandmother’s stolen ceremonial regalia, is the importance of Native Americans being able to preserve and connect with their tribal culture. A second theme is how past injustices and support system failures have resulted in Native Americans having the highest homelessness and poverty rates in the country. Other themes: identity, alcoholism, community, kindness, perseverance, connection. A possible moral: never give up if you really want something. More…

This story by Sherman Alexie highlights the difficulty tribal Native-Americans have assimilating into American society. A Spokane Indian recalls his breakup with a white kindergarten teacher he loved. Their relationship was one of constant fights and arguments, often over his excessive drinking. Tortured by violent dreams, he returned to the community of the reservation. After several idle months he once again finds work in the outside world, where a call from his ex-girlfriend suggests they still have feelings for one another but are too afraid to pursue them. Themes include community vs. isolation, prejudice, alcohol abuse, love and hatred. More…

In this story by Sherman Alexie a young Native-American man enlists the help of a boyhood friend he had grown away from to go on a road trip to bring back his father’s ashes. The focus of the story is the relationship between the two, and how it reflects growing individual and cultural disconnection among tribal Native-Americans. The other man’s help is not in recognition of their former friendship, but rather out of obligation for a deed of kindness once performed by the dead man. Themes include poverty, storytelling, friendship, alienation, loneliness, forgiveness, decline of Native-American culture. More…

In this story by Sherman Alexie a Native-American boy recalls the good and not-so-good times before his father rode off on his motorcycle, never to return. His father led a rebellious early life, spent two years in prison, visited Woodstock, and came home a heavy drinker. The relationship between his parents was volatile, alternating between alcohol induced arguments and lovemaking. The boy’s father had difficulty opening up and music, especially the titular song, was an important catalyst for communication between them. Themes include father-son relationships, war (in all contexts), alcoholism, marriage breakdown, abandonment, memory, the power of music. More…