On pages 82-84, Junior explains how alone he feels. Why does he feel this way? How does what happens in science class reinforce this feeling?

Junior feels this way because of his race and how people don't understand him. Junior mentions that "once I arrived at Reardan, I became something less, than less, than less, of an Indian,"(82). By this Junior means that he was shamed because of his race at school. He says that the "white kids did not talk to,"(82) him and that "they barley looked at,"(82) him. Since he was the only Indian, Junior didn't feel like he could relate to anyone. Having similarities with people is one of the most basic ways to make friends. The kids at Reardan think he is so different, they do not want or feel the need to connect with him, so he is lonely. Even the adults are being bad influences, and encouraging this behavior.

In the book there is a passage in science class, where the teacher doesn't believe Junior because of his race. The teacher then feels the need to check with another student. "Yep, now even the teachers were treating me like an idiot. I shrank back into my chair and remembered when I used to be a human being,"(86) says Junior. This is a very significant line as Junior uses the language "used to be a human  being" and "shrank back". The "shrank back" represents Juniors race as a burden even though it is not.  It shows how they teachers at this school are also killing the culture. They are doing what Mr. P used to do, except it is more powerful now that Junior is trying to have a new start. So therefore this reinforces why Junior is so lonely. It seems as everyone is against him for reasons beyond his control. 

What do you think of Gordy for "sticking up" for Junior? What do you think Junior thinks of him?

How do you think Mary and Junior can relate, in the book? Why are they more similar than Junior thought they were?

What are some differences between Mr. Dodge and Mr. P? Why are they such big influences in the story?