The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie and Bastard out of Carolina by Dorothy Allison, tell stories of problematic teenagers and their desire to live a more meaningful life than what society had predetermined for them. On the surface, Junior and Bone seem very different but when analyzed through the themes of discrimination, poverty and friendship, these two protagonists become reflections of each other. This article will compare the struggles faced by the characters and the effects of social inequality on their lives. The struggle to rise above the opinions of others was one of the biggest problems that both Junior and Bone fought to overcome. In Junior's case, racial discrimination constantly reminded him of his belonging to a low social class. His identity as a Native American was reason enough for people of other races to despise him. Stereotypes held that Native Americans were lazy, ignorant alcoholics who made no attempt to overcome poverty. Due to years of repression resulting from stereotypes, the Indian characters in this novel feel a strong sense of desperation. The residents of the reservation recognize that it is easier to accept injustice than to face the adversity that comes from challenging their offenders. When Junior asks his parents what kind of people have the most hope, they unhesitatingly tell him "white people." (p. 45). Throughout the book, Junior comments on the fact that white people belong to the most prestigious clubs, hold the highest paying jobs, and go to the best schools. Native Americans assume that the easiest thing to do is to give up. They have come to believe that success belongs to white people and that Indian life is a bit of paper… if his life chances are low, he can still strive for a better life. Unfortunately, Bone experienced such hardship that she eventually stopped fighting and accepted the fact that she would become nothing more than she was expected to be, "white trash." The effects of social inequality, poverty, discrimination, abuse and death affect people differently. Although they started out very similar, by the end of the books, Bone and Junior found themselves at different ends in life. Despite their many similarities, they will become very different people. Works Cited Alexie, S. (2007). The absolutely true diary of a part-time Indian. New York: Hachette Book Group, Inc. Allison, D. (2005). Carolina bastard. New York: Penguin Group. Rothman, R. A. (2005). Inequality and Stratification: Race, Class, and Gender (5th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall.