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.

This book is excellent, one of those reads you never get bored with. It’s action-packed and offers meaningful insight into a unique part of World War II history. Anyone who enjoys American history, military stories, or fast-paced narratives will truly appreciate this one. I highly recommend it!

A heart and mind-opening must read for children and adults alike. Powerful and well-written, experience the world of a people who, despite sorrowful experiences, stand tall and strong in answering the call to duty. The Diné rise above petty prejudice to serve as proud marines creating a code that could not be broken and prove to be indispensable in the Pacific Theater. The author carefully treats the combat zone so that you get the idea of the horrors without the gore. This makes it a valuable resource in the classroom. So many themes to capitalize upon--integrity, pride and appreciation for the Diné and other Native American cultures, friendship, dealing with prejudice--against the enemy and against others, locus of control, family, etc. As a teacher and a parent, I highly recommend Code Talker. In fact, I will be investing in a class set; my own money, of course, because Code Talkers is so powerful in creating a space for awareness--the kind of awareness that can change paradigms forever. AUDIO VERSION REVIEW: Code Talker is poignant to read, but Derrick Henry's recording transforms the novel into a spellbinding fireside evening at "grandfather's" knee. Thankfully, Henry must be Diné or can speak the language well enough to cause my friend, a fellow Diné to say, "He is Navajo." The authentic pronunciation of Navajo words and phrases increases appreciation for why this was America's best hope to create an unbreakable code. If there is any book one should listen to rather than read, this is it. Actually hearing the sacred language elevates the experience of Code Talker, for it is no longer just a novel, it is now an oral history.

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.