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

Good read for teens

I bought this book for my son. I also read it. I really enjoyed it. I thought his experience at the Indian boarding school when he was a child was very interesting to read about. I guess I didn’t realize that a lot of Native Americans got their names in English by random people at these boarding schools picking them for them. It is also really interesting to read about how complex the Navajo language was and how it made such a difference in the war. It’s a really good lesson about diversity and how it makes our society better. I also thought the message was very positive and inspiring. Despite the fact that they weren’t treated as well by the US government, they were proud Americans and served their country. They were patriots to both the USA and the Navajo nation. The marines that were code talkers should not be forgotten, they should be remembered for the difference they made. I recommend this book to both adults and kids.

I taught this novel a couple of times in my 6th grade class. I believe the text complexity would be appropriate up through high school. There are many opportunities to learn about different battles during the war and makes a great companion to a social studies or history class. Additionally, the book provides windows and mirrors for students in which students can either see themselves reflected, particularly Navajos, or they can gain insight into the lives of Navajo families. I found it to be an inspirational story, yet very realistic. Spoiler alert: In the end, Ned/Kii Yázhí reveals that in spite of serving for his country, those things didn't matter and, oftentimes, didn't change people's narrow mindsets. However, it was up to himself, Kii Yázhí, to not let that affect him and persevere. It's a powerful lesson for students to hear. There are many themes woven throughout the novel. My students tracked these themes, and then presented a podcast on one of those themes, making connections to their life. My kids liked the book and loved making podcast. I'm a proponent for adopting this as a whole class novel in my current school district.

Very enjoyable read about the Navaho community and it's oppression by White culture, the family and cultural values of the Navaho, their language, and the codes they developed to foil the efforts of the Axis powers to decrypt Allied communication.

POW! POW! BANG! BANG! This is the story of Kii Yazhi, also known as Ned Begay, a Navajo Marine who finds himself in the middle of some very dangerous battles in World War II. Ned Begay is in high school when America declares war on Japan. The Marines start recruiting only Navajos that speak Navajo and English fluently. These individuals will be used for a special duty assignment. Since Ned is able to speak Navajo and English, he signs up even though he is technically too young. Ned is sent to Hawaii and then to the Japanese controlled islands. It is there he learns the usefulness of the school he was sent to by his uncle at the beginning of the book. The school was the Rehoboth Missionary School and was on the southwest Navajo reservation. The main character is Kii Yazhi (Ned Begay) who is very short and has dark hair. Ned loves to learn and to study. He also loves to travel and wants to see the world. Ned goes to high school during a time when only people with good grades attend. He grows up in a time and place where being Navajo is considered second class. Despite this background, he is very brave and ends up fighting for the United States in World War II. I think the theme is to treat everyone with respect no matter what their race or background. It is important to remember that everyone has characteristics that are distinctive and valuable. In the book, it says that they tried “to beat the Navajo out of him.” He is even forced to give up his Navajo name, Kii Yazhi, and is called a new name, Ned Begay. He has to cut his hair short, even though it goes against Navajo tradition. If he or any of the other Navajos are caught not speaking English, they have their mouths washed out with soap. Being Navajo is considered to be something negative and undesirable. It is considered something that should be forgotten. However, later on it becomes apparent that being able to speak this unique language is a huge asset. Ned is able to use his knowledge of the Navajo language to save countless American lives as a Navajo code talker. In the end, the very things that people want him to forget ends up saving many lives. I think the book is very good and one that you never get bored reading. It is helpful if you have an interest in history and if you have a little background knowledge of the history of World War II. With that being said, I love this book and think that anyone who loves American history and action will love it, too. I would recommend this book because it is so action-packed and gives the reader insight into a unique aspect of World War II history.

What a great historical story. Can’t believe it took me long to find it. The writing style is comfortable, compassionate, and revealing. Well done!

It's a great book - but not as personal as the one I wrote and can't sell about one of the creators of the code! Ann S.

My mum bought this book for me when I had a summary to fill in, and then when she bought it for me, I was head over heels with joy. I recommend this product for other people

Read it with my 12-year-old: great way to learn about the second world war another way than in a classroom, raises important issues about integration and identity. A great lesson of courage!

Good

I have always been interested in knowing more about the first inhabitats (and true 'owners') of the AMERICAS (NIrth or south). I have read about the Hopi mostly, and was curious to know more about these brave men who helped keep secret the US operations during WWII. The protagonist/narrator is telling his grandchildren about his medal.... and then we find out about his childhood and how he goes to one of those schools run by whites... without much empathy and with a great desire to wipe out anything they considered 'alien', instead of trying to learn and respect the culture of a people who had been living in the continent way before 'the conquistadors' came. Then he joins the army and the story of the Code Talkers unfolds. Very well told, I think it should be read in school . I highly reccommend it as a Christmas present, which is what I am going to do for my younger cousins.