The Indian In The Cupboard

The Indian In The Cupboard - Lynne Reid Banks
Avon Books
ISBN: 0-380-60012-9

My rating: 4.5 out of 5

For his birthday, Omri receives a an ordinary cupboard...or so it appears. He soon discovers that it will bring to life any plastic toy that he puts into it. After he brings to life on of his toy Indians, Omri soon realizes that this newfound gift has more consequences than he first realizes.

The story is enjoyable, but I would encourage teachers to be cautious with this story. Although it touches on the fact that the media has misrepresented the Native Americans (as illustrated in the scene where Little Bear and Boone are watching TV), the book itself could send some wrong signals about the Native Americans. It would be very important for teachers to first discuss Native American culture with his/her students before reading this book.

"The Indian in the Cupboard" is a a very enjoyable read that students and teachers alike will enjoy.