97 pages • 3 hours read
Joseph BruchacCode Talker
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2005A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Code Talker by Joseph Bruchac follows Ned Begay, a Navajo man reflecting on his youth when he was recruited by the US military during World War II to use his language in creating an unbreakable code to aid the Allies. The story highlights Ned's experiences from boarding school to boot camp, his role as a code talker, and his combat experiences across the Pacific, culminating in the recognition of the code talkers' contributions post-war. The book contains depictions of racism and the harrowing realities of war.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Joseph Bruchac's Code Talker is widely praised for its engaging storytelling and valuable portrayal of Navajo contributions during World War II. Readers appreciate its historical accuracy and cultural insights, making it an educational resource. Criticisms include a perceived slow pace and occasional repetition, but overall, the novel receives high marks for its unique perspective and compelling narrative.
Who Should Read Code Talker?
Readers who appreciate historical fiction, Native American culture, and WWII stories will enjoy Code Talker by Joseph Bruchac. Fans of Michael Morpurgo’s War Horse or Markus Zusak’s The Book Thief will find similar themes of personal courage and cultural identity woven into a compelling narrative.
RecommendedReading Age
10-14yearsLexile Level
910L