Genre:
Realistic Fiction, Native American Fiction
Interest Level:
Ages 9 to 12
Reading Level:
Grades 4-6
Book Theme:
Family illness, family heritage, relationships with grandparents
Books with Similar Themes:
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie, See Behind Trees by Michael Dorris
Bibliographic Information:
Pitts, P. (1988). Racing the sun. New York: Avon Books.
Plot:
Twelve-year-old Brandon Rogers doesn't know very much about his Navajo background. Both his parents left the reservation long ago and are not interested in living the Navajo way, so Brandon has not learned about it. This all changes when Brandon finds out his paternal grandfather is sick and will be coming to stay with them while he gets care. Brandon feels pretty uncertain about this, especially when he finds out he'll be sharing his room with his grandfather! At first his grandfather's chanting and other habits annoy Brandon, but then his grandfather starts to teach Brandon about his culture and he finally understands what it means to be Navajo. The doctors discover that the grandfather's illness is terminal, and his last wish is to return to his home. Brandon's parent's won't hear of it, but Brandon comes up with a plan to get his grandfather home one last time.
Review:
Racing the Sun is an incredible story about a boy who learns about his culture for the first time. It's a story that tweens will love for it's funny and insightful main character Brandon. Brandon goes through all sorts of tweens issues like being embarrassed by family members while also loving them dearly, trying to establish his independence and discovering himself. Brandon's relationship with his grandfather is one that is unforgettable and will encourage tweens to open dialogue with their grandparents or other family members about the stories and histories of their own family. The story also includes a list of the Navajo words used at the end. Racing the Sun is a funny, moving, and touching book that tweens will love!
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