Junior: A Character Worthy of Influence by Alexandrina

Junior: A Character Worthy of Influence by Alexandrina - April 2014 Scholarship Essay

Sherman Alexi’s character Junior from his book The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian was forced to overcome a series of obstacles arising from medical ailments, racism, bullying, and societal conditions. While most would give up and conform to social standards, Junior perseveres, determined to gain a worthy education while staying true to himself, his culture, and his friends. Junior’s candid attitude, positivity, and ability to make tough decisions allow him to be a character that easily influences the lives of Alexi’s audience.

“Born with water on the brain” or too much cerebral spinal fluid (“brain grease” as he calls it) in his skull, Junior’s determination to live radiates before he even reaches year one. This impediment does not stop him, however, from living the life he wants. Junior, not letting his disability define him, manages to form it into some sort of “weird and funny” story living with himself, his seizures, and his out of the ordinary appearance peacefully. Most might use this as an excuse to not put as much effort into everyday things, but Junior utilizes it in the exact opposite way: as motivation. It is not a character flaw but an enhancing detail.

After deciding to transfer to a school outside his Spokane Indian reservation to better his education, Junior faces discrimination from not only his new classmates but also his best friend as he becomes both an outcast and a traitor simultaneously. Being a new student with a variety of qualities deemed worthy of being made fun of along with the fact that he is the only Indian in a school where the mascot is an Indian does not add up to an easy start for Junior at his new school. His unwavering quest to be on the basketball team at his new school exposes him to even more adversity along with a sense of accomplishment- especially as he establishes himself when he goes against his bitter best friend during a game between his old school and his new school.

Junior’s refusal to let himself and those around him discourage his dreams and goals allows him to possess an influential nature. He inspires readers to overcome their own unavoidable obstacles, internal and external, by viewing life as a lesson in humility and a chance to prove oneself. Sherman Alexi created a character worth looking up to in his work The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. Junior has influenced me to overlook my own hurdles in life through positive thinking and being true to myself even when all efforts may seem hopeless. I've learned that nothing and no one will be able to stand in the way of my overambitious dream of saving the world one person at a time.