Teen Book Review: If I Ever Get Out of Here

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If I Ever Get Out of Here by Eric Gansworth is about a young Native American boy named Lewis Blake living in the Tuscarora Indian Reservation in 1925.

Gansworth’s debut novel encompasses Lewis’ life and friendship with his friend George. You see through Lewis’ eyes the harsh treatment Native Americans get, the bullying and name-calling. But Lewis has some fun, too. He hangs out with his friend George and Uncle Albert. Lewis and George go to concerts and have fun. But George doesn’t know Lewis is a poor Indian, and their friendship is tested when the boys are forced to stay at Lewis’ home. All in all, the book is a good read, with its twists and turns. It’s meant for grades 6-9, but is good for older readers too. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone wanting a good read.

-Gautam