In “The Joy of Reading and Writing: Superman and Me,” Sherman Alexie offers a distinct viewpoint on the significance of reading and writing. Raised on the Spokane Reservation in Wellpinit, Washington, Alexie explores how these abilities influenced his own development, aiming to communicate his experience of attaining literacy at a young age and emphasize his intellectual potential as a Native American boy. Additionally, he reflects on his present role as an adult teaching creative writing to Native American children.
Alexie not only learned to read, but also developed a passion for it. This love for reading was crucial in his journey through the education system, defying stereotypes of being unintelligent, quiet, impoverished, and destined for failure. In his essay, Alexie starts with a confident tone. Growing up on an Indian Reservation, he self-taught himself to read at three years old using Superman comic books. By examining the pictures and dialogue, he would envision and articulate the story being conveyed. I would emphasize the narrative above the image.
Although unable to read the words, it is assumed that the text states that Superman is breaking down the door. Verbally, the speaker pretends to read the words and declares, “Superman is breaking down the door” (14). While many other Indian children had difficulties reading simple words and vocabulary, Alexie quickly learned how to read. In fact, “He reads Grapes of Wrath in kindergarten when other children are struggling through Dick and Jane” (15). Once Alexie had established his self-confidence, he then demonstrates a tone of determination.
Traditionally, Indian children were expected to underperform in school, and the majority of them indeed did. While Indian boys who struggled were tolerated, those who excelled faced rejection. However, Alexie stood out as an exception by being intelligent and determined not to fail. He refused to be intimidated and actively participated alongside his non-Indian classmates in class. According to Alexie’s recollection, he frequently engaged in arguments with his peers because they wanted him to remain silent when their non-Indian teacher sought answers, volunteers, or assistance (15). Despite facing resistance, Alexie possessed a passion for reading and consumed any material he could find without regard for whether it was considered a proper book or not.
Alexie was determined to succeed academically and did not want to experience failure. He stated, “I refused to fail. I was smart. I was arrogant. I was lucky” (15). Towards the end of the essay, Alexie expressed a sense of pride and surprise as he had managed to become a writer. Through his writing journey, he began authoring books for children and teaching creative writing at Indian Schools. Alexie takes pride in his ability to assist other Indian children in achieving success in their lives. He mentioned, “These days, I write novels, short stories, and poems. I visit schools and teach creative writing to Indian kids” (15).
Most of the children in the Reservation read Sherman Alexie’s books and write their own poems, which fills Alexie with pride. However, there are some children who have lost hope in themselves and choose to sit in the back of the classroom, showing no interest in reading and writing. Alexie refers to them as “the sullen and already defeated Indian kids who sit in the back rows and ignore me with theatrical precision” (16). He is determined to overcome their resistance and make a difference in their lives by teaching them literacy skills.
Alexie refused to let failure consume him despite facing adversity. Instead, he immersed himself in various genres of literature, transforming into a resilient reader and an intelligent Native American individual. Alexie’s insatiable thirst for knowledge led him to devour books wherever he found himself, which significantly contributed to his academic accomplishments and success in life. In addition to his personal achievements, he took it upon himself to assist other Native Americans on the Reservation by equipping them with essential reading and writing skills, ultimately aiming to preserve their existence. As Alexie eloquently expressed, “I possess intelligence, confidence, and fortune. I am determined to safeguard our lives” (16).
