Code Talker Book Summary
A Novel About the Navajo Marines of World War Two
TL;DR
'Code Talker' by Joseph Bruchac tells the inspiring story of a 16-year-old Navajo boy who becomes a code talker during World War II, highlighting the crucial role of the Navajo language in the U.S. war effort against Japan.
What is Code Talker about
'Code Talker: A Novel About the Navajo Marines of World War Two' by Joseph Bruchac is a historical fiction novel that explores the untold story of Navajo code talkers during World War II. The book follows Ned Begay, a sixteen-year-old Navajo boy, who enlists in the U.S. Marines and becomes part of a team that uses the Navajo language to create an unbreakable code. This code becomes crucial in the U.S. war effort against Japan. Through Ned's journey, Bruchac honors the bravery and cultural heritage of the Navajo people, shedding light on a story that remained classified for more than two decades.
Code Talker 5 Key Takeaways
Ned Begay's enlistment
Ned Begay, a sixteen-year-old Navajo boy, enlists in the U.S. Marines, driven by his desire to serve his country and prove his worth.
Becoming a code talker
Ned undergoes rigorous training and learns that his native Navajo language will be used to create an unbreakable code, essential for U.S. military communications in the Pacific theater.
First combat experience
Ned faces the harsh realities of war during his first combat experience, witnessing the horrors of battle while maintaining his focus on his mission.
Successful missions
Using the Navajo code, Ned and his fellow code talkers successfully transmit vital messages, contributing to key victories in the war against Japan and saving countless lives.
End of war and recognition
After the war, the code talkers' contributions are finally recognized, but their story remains classified for over twenty years. Ned reflects on the importance of his heritage and the sacrifices made by his comrades.
Code Talker Videos
"Code Talker: Navajo Marines of World War Two" by Joseph Bruchac
Top Code Talker Quotes
- 'Our words were a weapon that protected our people.'
- 'We were soldiers, but we were also keepers of our language and culture.'
Who should read Code Talker?
'Code Talker' is ideal for young adults and history enthusiasts who are interested in learning about the lesser-known aspects of World War II, particularly the contributions of Native Americans. Readers will gain a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage and the sacrifices made by the Navajo code talkers.
Code Talker Best Reviews
- 'Readers who choose the book for the attraction of Navajo code talking and the heat of battle will come away with more than they ever expected to find.'—Booklist, starred review
- 'Nonsensational and accurate, Bruchac's tale is quietly inspiring...'—School Library Journal
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Code Talker FAQs
What was the book 'Code Talker' about?
'Code Talker' is about a Navajo (Native American) who uses his language to help win the war. It is World War Two and the United States of America is fighting against Japan. Every code the Americans have used to send secret information has been cracked by the Japanese.
Is 'Code Talker' book a true story?
This moving historical fiction is based on the real-life Navajo code talkers whose bravery saved countless American lives.
How old was Ned Begay in the book 'Code Talker'?
Ned Begay is a sixteen-year-old Navajo boy who becomes a code talker in the U.S. Marines during World War II.