Sherman Alexie explains his life as an Indian boy and how learning to read shaped his entire world. Living in an Indian reserve, Alexie was expected to fail and remain uneducated. He writes, “A smart Indian is a dangerous person, widely feared and ridiculed by Indians and non-Indians alike. I fought with my classmates on a daily basis. They wanted me to stay quiet when the non-Indian teacher asked for answers, for volunteers, for help. We were Indian children expected to be stupid.” Alexie knew he was capable of more and was determined to break the mold. With perseverance and dedication Alexie was able to save his own life and break down the doors of the stereotype of being just another uneducated Indian boy. He places himself in the shoes of a hero. Superman had played a bigger role in his life than learning how to read, he had become a symbol of strength and courage for Alexie. The symbolism of superman is clarified when he says, “I am breaking down the door. In the way, I learned to read.”

All my life I have always been taught the importance of an education. My parents have always instilled in me the value of a college education. Neither one of my parents had the opportunity to go to college and it has always motivated me. I believe knowledge is power, a ticket to a better life. It doesn’t take a genius to be a better person but only the time, energy, and motivation to thrive and succeed.