In the novel The Education of Little Tree by Forrest Carter, A young boy of only five years old, is shown not only in new ways but is taught in old ways. This creates an image of a boy who is confused about many views in life, but on his way he learns and becomes wiser. His experiences teach him that he can share with the less and more fortunate.

The novel begins at his parents' funeral; Little Tree takes a trip back home with his grandparents on the bus. Little Tree is young, and he doesn't understand that people on the bus are not being friendly, nor are they sick, but they are mocking Little Tree and his grandparents because the are of native background. An example of this discrimination towards Little Tree and his family is presented as Little Tree and his grandparents enter the bus...