Code Talkers by Joseph Bruchac

 

Code Talker by Joseph Bruchac




A.           Bibliography

Bruchac, Joseph. 2006. New York, NY; Speak. ISBN 0142405965

 

  1. Plot Summary

Ned Begay tells the story of his experiences during World War II. The story begins as Ned is forced to attend a boarding school that is meant to teach Ned the “white ways”. This regrettable act of racism, leads Ned to register for the Marines, with which he soon becomes a part of the Navajo Code Talkers platoon. As the story progresses, Ned tells of the harrowing experiences he faces against the Japanese army, including the infamous battle of Iwo Jima. 



  1. Critical Analysis (Including Cultural Markers)

This seemingly autobiographical story is told with the truth and honesty of first-hand experiences. Ned begins by explaining how he was forced to change his name to a “white” name, instead of the traditional Native American name that he was given at birth. He also explains how he was treated while at the boarding school. He was remorselessly taunted for speaking in his native language. Through this treatment, Ned explains how he feels his identity being stripped away. Irony presents itself in this story, as the treatment of Ned and other Navajo Indians such as himself come full circle, when the Navajo Code Talkers play a pivotal role in the American victory during World War II. 

            The Native American culture is made apparent time and time again as Ned describes the treatment he receives from others. For example, while at school, Ned was tormented when he spoke in his native language, rather than English. The teachers would bully him, call him names, and punish him severely. Furthermore, while in the army, Ned was once again singled out at bootcamp and taunted, due to his Native American heritage. It isn’t until Ned befriends another soldier, that the teasing subsides, and Ned is able to prove his valour and heroic tendencies. 




  1. Review Excerpts

Kirkus Review: “Telling his story to his grandchildren, Ned relates his experiences in school, military training, and across the Pacific, on Guadalcanal, Bougainville, Guam, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. With its multicultural themes and well-told WWII history, this will appeal to a wide audience.”

 

Booklist: “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.”



  1. Connections

Hillenbrand, Laura.UNBROKEN. ISBN 0385742525.

 

Tougias, Michael. THE FINEST HOUR. ISBN 1250044235.

 

Rozell, Matthew. THE THINGS OUR FATHER SAW. ISBN 0996480005.

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