The Joy of Reading and Writting: Superman and Me Response

Alex Troncoso

The Joy of Reading and Writing

Superman and Me Response

For the most part of society, the ability to read and write distinguishes an individual from a savage. It may seem something basic to us people who were raised in a traditional American way, but to someone born in less fortunate areas of the world it can really make a difference in his or her life. In The Joy of Reading and Writing: Superman and Me written by Sherman Alexie, he recalls his experience with books and expresses how even though he had to overcome challenges for going against society’s status quo, having this advantage saved his life and made him want to save other Native American kids as well.

Alexie explains to the reader how his passion for reading and writing came from watching his father’s love and appreciation for books. I find a parent responsible for the child’s future. As a child, all you know exists and matters is what you observe within your family, friends, and community. Had his father had an obsession with an unhealthy habit such as drugs rather than literature, Sherman may have ended up like the typical American Indian children who lack an appetite for knowledge. It is very important that the author explains how he was first drawn to books to establish a message that parents can shape the future of their kids.

Then, he goes on to express how he felt in society. Living in a society which stereotypes his culture as illiterate and “stupid” was hard to cope with; Caucasian children did not accept him because of his race, and Indian kids made him feel like an outcast for being different. I believe this sense of aloofness contributed to his endearment for writing. If he didn’t have any friends and felt judged by his peers, books may have been an outlet for thoughts and emotions in which he felt comfortable around.

I believe he was very fortunate to have gone through the difficulties he faced, because in the end all that matters is what you have accomplished and what...