Monday, February 1, 2010

Call It Courage: Armstrong Sperry



This book is one of my childhood favorites.  It is a Newberry Medal Award winner and a fantastic book for younger children.  It shares the experiences of the island boy Mafatu.  He is the only boy on the island that is afraid of the sea.  His mother having drowned, Mafatu fears the sea and is relegated to the same tasks as the women of the island, mending fishing nets and such.  This shames his father who also happens to be the leader of his people.  Mafatu is ashamed and decides to prove his worth and conquer his fear.  He leaves the island in a canoe accompanied by his dog, Uri, and another friend Kivi, an albatross.  Mafatu learns and grows quickly as he battles hunger, thirst, sharks, octopi, and cannibals.  A classic story of adventure and survival, Call It Courage will leave the reader very satisfied.

Would I Read It Again?: Yes

Grade: A
Content: Scary Sequences (For Younger Readers)
Jeff's Recommended Age: 9+
Sequels:
     None

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