How the novel In Search of April Raintree furthered my Knowledge of Native People

                     Before reading this novel I was not able to fully understand why Native people drank or commited suicide. After I read this book I finally understood that these acts are a method of escapism for all the hardships they faced in their lives. I know that this shouldn't be an excuse for giving up and wasting their lives. But after reading this book I was given an insight as to why people do what they do. I think after reading Beatrice Mosionier's novel In Search of April Raintree we are more aware of the injustices Native people faced and can stop them from occurring again. If we do this than many like Cheryl can be saved. I also learned that being proud of who you are and where you come from is the key to survival for Native people if not everyone. That diversity should be celebrated and not ridiculed. Cheryl was proud of her heritage but April was not. April denying her heritage and Cheryl's parents being alcoholics made Cheryl lose hope in her culture and made her believe that what everyone said about her and her people were true.Cheryl had lost her identity. At her point of weakness she turned to alcohol which only created more problems in her life and ultimately lead her to commit suicide. This awakened April from her slump and it ignited her pride and passion of her Native heritage. It was unfortunate that in order for April to find her identity Cheryl had to die, but it informs the reader that accepting and being proud of yourself will keep you and those around you happy. I learned that losing your identity could be detrimental.