The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven – $155

• Paperback: 272 pages
• Publisher: Grove Press (February 8, 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0802141676
• ISBN-13: 978-0802141675

This work chronicles modern life on the Spokane Indian Reservation. Victor, through whose eyes we view the community, is strongly aware of Native American traditions but wonders whether his ancestors view today’s Indians–mired in alcohol, violence, and an almost palpable sense of despair–with sympathy or disgust. In spite of the bleakness of reservation life, the text brims with humor and passion as it juxtaposes ancient customs with such contemporary artifacts as electric guitars and diet Pepsi. The author of two previous poetry collections, Alexie writes with grit and lyricism that perfectly capture the absurdity of a proud, dignified people living in the squalor, struggling to survive in a society they disdain. Highly recommended for all fiction collections.