"The Heart of the Chief"

I really enjoyed this novel. I seriously could not put it down. I think this is a great book to use in a classroom for a number of reasons. Not only does it address problems that Native Americans went through and they continue to go through, but it also allows children to relate to the problems that Chris is going through.

After reading the other texts, I have realized even more how great of a book this is for students. It does not cover very many stereotypes of Native Americans, however, it clears them up. The little boy in the book, Chris, clears up a lot of Native American stereotypes as he tells stories.

The book also brought up issues that a boy his age could be having. I think this is great because it allows students to connect more with the book. Issues such as losing his mom, his dad drinking, the girl he likes in school, trying to find his place in school, etc. I feel like a lot of students in middle school are dealing with the same type of problems. Entering middle school is a scary place, and in the beginning every student needs to find their place. Also, his love for the girl in his class. I think a lot of students would be able to relate to that as well. Kids that age always have little crushes that come and go, so they can relate to how Chris feels about Katie. Another big issue in the book that students can relate to is the idea of friendship. Chris loses a friend in the book, because they are interested in different things. All kids go through a time where friends become distant because of a sport, a new group of friends, etc. I feel that some students might be able to relate to this as well.

I think this book would be a great read for students. It not only address issues of Native American culture, but it also relates issues of friends, family problems, crushes, finding a place in school, etc. The students will learn about a culture, however, relate to the book as well.