Sherman Alexie
In the memoir, Sherman is a kid who was chronically ill for most of his childhood. He was constantly bullied and isolated while living on the reservation. He did not participate in tribal activities because of his illness. He leaves the reservation and goes to live elsewhere. Sherman thrives in this new environment. Being the only Native American in this new school, he becomes popular in school and excels in everything he puts his mind to.
Lilian Alexie
Lilian is/ was Sherman’s abusive mother. She constantly abused Sherman as a child. She would ignore him for days and show no affection towards him. Lilian was a poor alcoholic who paid no mind to his child. She quit drinking when Sherman was still young. In the memoir, it’s claimed that she was a victim of rape.
Joseph Alexie
Joseph is/was Sherman’s absent father. Although they lived together, Joseph was a non-functioning alcoholic who left home for days without end. He wasn’t a major presence in Sherman’s life. In the memoir, Joseph drank himself to death.
