Flight

Sherman Alexie's 'Flight: A Novel' takes readers on a journey through time as the protagonist, fifteen-year-old "Zits," grapples with his identity and traumatic past. Abused and ignored in the foster care system, Zits feels alienated from the world, especially from his Native American heritage. However, after meeting charismatic Justice, Zits embarks on a dangerous path of violence. With a gun in hand, he time-travels through American history, experiencing pivotal moments and embodying both hero and villain. As Zits gains a new understanding of his identity and place in the world, he must navigate the consequences of his actions. Alexie's masterful combination of magical realism and emotional depth make this a compelling and thought-provoking read.

sherman alexie ꞏ fiction ꞏ national book award ꞏ native american ꞏ irish ꞏ foster care ꞏ friendship ꞏ gun violence ꞏ time travel ꞏ historical fiction ꞏ civil rights movement ꞏ battle of little bighorn ꞏ nineteenth century ꞏ airplane pilot ꞏ hero ꞏ villain ꞏ victim ꞏ magical realism ꞏ humor ꞏ insight ꞏ young adult ꞏ coming of age