Where does Alexie "open up" the story? How effective is he in each instance?

The novel opens up in 1976. Nine-year-old Victor Joseph listens to his parents’ New Year’s Eve party as he tries to sleep in his room. Victor reflects on the many difficult times he has had in childhood as a result of his parents’ poverty and alcoholism. A hurricane touches down on the reservation but causes little damage, and life goes on. These settings give us a glimpse into Victor's life as an aboriginal growing up. Although life is difficult, it his life and it unfolds despite rowdy parties and hurricanes.