Code Talker: A Novel About the Navajo Marines of World War Two

A fantastic novel, and can be used as an introduction to code talkers of the world wars. I, myself, never knew of code talkers before picking up this novel! I would recommend this novel to teachers in late elementary and in early junior high, as the themes present in the novel are thought-provoking and can set the foundation for important and honest discussions, especially about colonialism, the achievements of Indigenous peoples, and the inherent right to have one's culture preserved. I respect Joseph Bruchac's work on this novel, and I appreciate his decision on what themes and topics were to be discussed throughout the novel. As such, the many horrors of American Indian boarding schools were left out to focus on the achievements and growth of the Navajo code talkers. This decision does not invalidate what happened in the boarding schools, but rather empowers readers to broaden their understandings of Indigenous peoples. Readers will come to understand that tragedies may define a nation for many generations, but also discern the many nuances that complete these people.

At first thought it'd be boring. But after reading the first page I couldn't stop!! Love how I'm learning a piece of history while I read this!

At first I wasn't too sure about reading this book but when you get into it it's really good. This is definitely a must-have in my book (pun intended )