The Indian in the Cupboard

The Indian in the Cupboard
By: Lynne Reid Banks
Random House Children's Books
March 1985
Age: 9 and up

Summary

The Indian in the Cupboard is a really unique kind of story about a young boy named Omri who gets a boring, old fashioned medicine cupboard and a plastic indian for his birthday. Through a series of events that bring about Omri's intense boredom, to his surprise, the Indian comes to life when locked in the cupboard. A real, live miniature of an actual Native American who has all of the same types of skills, beliefs, hopes and dreams of one such a type of person. Throughout the book, Omri and "Little Bear" have many different adventures and become fast friends, though the road to their unique friendship is not without it's hardships and struggles.

Who Would benefit from reading this book?

I think anyone who enjoys historical fiction will love this book. Though it is not a true historical fiction novel in the real sense, it has a unique twist on the idea. Little Bear, the Native American, is an actual Native American Indian brought forward in time to rest in the body of the little plastic figurine. He is familiar with blood feuds and tribal wars and all of the native american skills, dreams, hopes and beliefs. Anyone who loves historical fiction, or even a good adventure novel will enjoy this book.

What problems or conflicts could this book potentially cause?

I do not see this book causing any problems.

What was your reaction?

I really enjoyed this book. I really love historical fiction novels and I liked how the author mixed present day with real-historical figures and events. It's a unique twist on an interesting storyline.