97 pages • 3 hours read
Code Talker
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Book Brief
231
Novel • Fiction
Pacific Theater • 1940s
2005
YA
10-14 years
910L
Super Short Summary
Code Talker by Joseph Bruchac follows Ned Begay, a Navajo man reflecting on his youth when he was recruited by the US military during World War II to use his language in creating an unbreakable code to aid the Allies. The story highlights Ned's experiences from boarding school to boot camp, his role as a code talker, and his combat experiences across the Pacific, culminating in the recognition of the code talkers' contributions post-war. The book contains depictions of racism and the harrowing realities of war.
Informative
Emotional
Inspirational
Bittersweet
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
20,115 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Joseph Bruchac's Code Talker is widely praised for its engaging storytelling and valuable portrayal of Navajo contributions during World War II. Readers appreciate its historical accuracy and cultural insights, making it an educational resource. Criticisms include a perceived slow pace and occasional repetition, but overall, the novel receives high marks for its unique perspective and compelling narrative.
Who Should Read Code Talker?
Readers who appreciate historical fiction, Native American culture, and WWII stories will enjoy Code Talker by Joseph Bruchac. Fans of Michael Morpurgo’s War Horse or Markus Zusak’s The Book Thief will find similar themes of personal courage and cultural identity woven into a compelling narrative.
20,115 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Johnny Manuelito
Johnny Manuelito
An older Navajo who returns to Ned's school after serving in the Marines, respected by both the Navajo and white communities. He plays a key role as one of Ned’s instructors when learning the code.
Georgia Boy
Georgia Boy
A tall, good-natured white Marine with a southern accent, who becomes Ned's close friend after asking for help with reading. Their friendship deepens as they support each other through difficult times in the military.
Smitty
Smitty
A fellow Marine and friend of Ned’s, tasked with ensuring Ned's safety due to the risk of being mistaken for the enemy. Smitty is frequently by Ned's side throughout their military service.
231
Novel • Fiction
Pacific Theater • 1940s
2005
YA
10-14 years
910L
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