Oregon Public Broadcasting

A Central Oregon High School has pulled a book by Seattle author Sherman Alexie from its shelves. A parent’s complaint prompted the move. KLCC’s Rachael McDonald reports.

“The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” was assigned to a 9th grade English Class at Crook County High School in Prineville.

Parent Hank Moss told the school board he was “uncomfortable” with parts of the book that dealt with masturbation.  The board agreed to pull the book from the classroom and put it under review.

Curriculum Director Dennis Kostelecky says banning books is a serious matter. He says the school principal objected.

Dennis Kostelecky: “Sherman Alexie has a really nice way with words. He’s a recognized author. The book is nationally recognized of course and the students were really excited about reading this book and it caught their attention.”

Sherman Alexie’s semi-autobiographical novel won the 2007 National Book Award for young people’s literature.

It’s the story of a boy who leaves his school on the Spokane Indian Reservation to attend an all-white high school.