Code Talker is a novel narrated by a man named Ned Begay, describing the story behind the metals he received during World War II. He grew up on a Navajo reservation and attended a boarding school ran by whites. Racism against the Navajo was obvious especially during his time at the school. He was often treated differently and unjustly compared to white students at non-reservation schools. He was also forbidden to speak Navajo but, knowing the language proved to be instrumental later on.
Ned joined the military and the war effort at a very young age. He convinced a recruiter to enlist him while he was still in high school. He became the second group of Navajo to learn the secret code based on their language. At first he is stereotyped and treated like most Indians were treated during that time. However, his efforts soon would gain the respect of his non-Indian colleagues.
This historical fiction novel is heavy with factual information, even though the character himself is fictional. The Navajo code was crucial for the success of the United States military, especially in the Pacific during battles like Iwo Jima. They typically formed two person teams, one for relaying the messages and another for recording them. This code was in fact so complicated that only Navajo Indians could understand it. Whites could learn the Navajo language but, when they tried to interpret the code they often could not. Only native speaking Navajo could decode it quickly and efficiently. This was a proud time for the Navajo Indians. They were normally scorned by the whites but, now they were admired by them.
Although this novel focuses more on the historian side of historical fiction, the fiction writer aspect demonstrates how Ned felt during this time period. One clever moment of the novel was during Ned’s military training. Him along with other trainees were given the task of crossing a desert with only one canteen of water. His fellow Navajo grew up in the desert on the reservations therefore, they knew how to survive. In order to complete the task they would drink from the cactus to maintain their hydration. Their white counterparts did not know of this and were baffled that the Navajo could survive without consuming hardly any water. Instead of enlightening them of how they survived, they gave them the impression that they were just tougher. This situation of amusement keeps the reader interested in the story and allows them to better connect to the main character.
Historical fiction novels can sometimes be dry when compared to genres like fantasy, drama, romance, etc. However, when they are sprinkled with scenes like the desert crossing they can revitalize the readers interest into the story. History buffs may enjoy it more just based on the information provided but, most readers need a break from the mundane every once in awhile.
The righteousness Ned experiences after his service can be felt by the reader. During the beginning one could feel the oppression Ned and his people faced on a day to day basis. The constant conflict he faced with the teachers at his school was a testament to his high tolerance and perseverance. The Navajo were constantly told they were inferior when compared to whites and belittled on every level. Ned however, takes the “I’ll show you” mentality and proves all of his white teachers wrong. Their language that they were forbidden to speak, proved to make a huge contribution to the American efforts in the war.
Ultimately, this historical fiction piece enlightens the reader of the importance of Navajo Indians during War World II, while viewing it from a young and inspiring Navajo, Ned Begay.
References:
Bruchac, J. (2005). Code Talker. New York: Dial Books.
Cutter, J. (2005). Code Talker by Joseph Bruchac. Retrieved from Teen Ink: http://www.teenink.com/reviews/book_reviews/article/18149/Code-Talker-by-Joseph-Bruchac/