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3.8 AVERAGE
3.8 AVERAGE
I really wanted to like this book. The topic is so interesting and I usually love historical fiction. However, the war scenes were pretty boring and the story line seemed disjointed and choppy. I'm giving it two stars for the beginning and a few heartwarming passages.
In terms of the historical information, I loved it. I learned so much about the Navajo and how their language created the code used in World War II in the Pacific. I also really enjoyed all the information about the war in the Pacific, because so many of the WW2 historical fiction I've found focuses on Europe.
But there was barely any story here. In the author's note at the end, Bruchac said the first draft was basically all historical information and he'd write the character later. I feel like he was still a draft or two away from getting a fully developed character and narrative. Ned Begay basically functioned as a vehicle through which to share all the research. The narrative wasn't anything more than "this is what Navajo experienced during the war." There were a few extra details about Ned, but to be honest, the main character could have been someone else with less editing than it would take to fully develop Ned.
It made for a really dry, dull book. But you can tell Bruchac did tons of research and I enjoyed it for that. I do kind of wish he'd just written a nonfiction book on the subject because that probably would have been more interesting.
But there was barely any story here. In the author's note at the end, Bruchac said the first draft was basically all historical information and he'd write the character later. I feel like he was still a draft or two away from getting a fully developed character and narrative. Ned Begay basically functioned as a vehicle through which to share all the research. The narrative wasn't anything more than "this is what Navajo experienced during the war." There were a few extra details about Ned, but to be honest, the main character could have been someone else with less editing than it would take to fully develop Ned.
It made for a really dry, dull book. But you can tell Bruchac did tons of research and I enjoyed it for that. I do kind of wish he'd just written a nonfiction book on the subject because that probably would have been more interesting.
Amazing story about WWII code talkers. The theme of preservation of culture & language is beautifully weaved through a detailed story of their efforts in the war.
This novel, written as a memoir, is so meticulously researched and its narrator so personable and natural, that it is hard to believe that it is a work of fiction. Bruchac offers a minority perspective on U.S.- Navajo relations and World War 2 that, unlike many of modern day works that attempt to do the same, keeps sight of honor and self-worth. Instead of complaining, demonizing, or condemning the oppressors, the narrator sees the humanity in his enemies. His message is one of validation and the sanctity of all life; he demonstrates a better way, a way of beauty, of peace that comes from living a life of humility and gratitude.
“Never forget, grandchildren, that we must always see all other people as human beings, worthy of respect. We must never forget… That all life is holy.”
The book has a lot to offer middle grade readers in terms of historical world building as it touches on Navajo language, culture, and folklore; it details invasions of Bougainville, Guam, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa in the Pacific arena of WW2; and gives some insight into the lasting trauma of war. There is some honest depiction of war casualties, but the author is never more graphic than he has to be (ex. Trembling legs and pale face of a man shot in the neck.)
12+
“Never forget, grandchildren, that we must always see all other people as human beings, worthy of respect. We must never forget… That all life is holy.”
The book has a lot to offer middle grade readers in terms of historical world building as it touches on Navajo language, culture, and folklore; it details invasions of Bougainville, Guam, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa in the Pacific arena of WW2; and gives some insight into the lasting trauma of war. There is some honest depiction of war casualties, but the author is never more graphic than he has to be (ex. Trembling legs and pale face of a man shot in the neck.)
12+
adventurous
inspiring
medium-paced
challenging
informative
reflective
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Incredible telling if the work and sacrifice of the Navajo Code Talkers to the battle and ending of World War 2. Lots of opportunity to consider our prejudices and how they can lead us to miss out on the ways and the values if other people
I loved getting some insight into the culture and beliefs of the Navajo along the way as well.
Great book to read with middle grade kids. Our 8-14 year olds and both adults really enjoyed this one.
I loved getting some insight into the culture and beliefs of the Navajo along the way as well.
Great book to read with middle grade kids. Our 8-14 year olds and both adults really enjoyed this one.
adventurous
challenging
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
I really liked this book. It centered on a very interesting topic and I think it was handled very well. At times it can feel it’s moving a little too fast, but honestly the pace works well. It covers a long time in a shorter time that way.
While historical fiction it does not feel like it. It is written like a biography and filled historical facts, names, and figures. I suggest this book to anyone who likes historical fiction or biographies.