Summary

Call It Courage, a 1940 children's novel by Armstrong Sperry, is a beloved classic that has captivated readers for generations. This Newbery Medal-winning tale follows a young Polynesian boy's journey to overcome his fear of the sea. Sperry's vivid storytelling and illustrations bring the Pacific Islands setting to life, immersing readers in a world of ancient legends and oceanic adventures. The book's enduring popularity led to a 1973 television adaptation on The Wonderful World of Disney, further cementing its place in children's literature.

Plot

Mafatu, the son of the Great Chief of Hikueru, is a young boy plagued by fear of the sea. After witnessing his mother's death in the ocean as a baby, Mafatu has been labeled a coward by his people, who value courage above all else. Unable to bear the shame any longer, the 12-year-old boy decides to face his fears head-on by embarking on a solo journey across the sea, accompanied only by his dog and pet albatross.

During his voyage, Mafatu encounters a fierce storm that destroys his canoe and leaves him stranded on a deserted island. Here, he must learn to survive on his own, developing skills in hunting, fishing, and crafting tools. As he overcomes various challenges, including encounters with dangerous wildlife such as a hammerhead shark, a wild boar, and an octopus, Mafatu gradually builds his courage and self-reliance.

The boy's ultimate test comes when he discovers a sacrificial altar used by cannibals from a nearby island. Realizing the threat to his safety, Mafatu constructs a new canoe and prepares for his escape. When the cannibals return to the island, he makes a daring getaway, successfully evading his pursuers and navigating his way back to Hikueru. Upon his return, Mafatu is transformed into a brave and imposing figure, earning the respect of his people and the pride of his father, who initially fails to recognize the changed boy.

Themes

• Overcoming fear and building courage
• Coming of age and self-discovery
• The importance of perseverance
• Cultural expectations and societal pressure
• Man versus nature
• The journey as a transformative experience
• The power of self-reliance and resourcefulness

Setting

Set in a pre-modern era, Call It Courage unfolds in the vast expanse of the Pacific Islands. The story's backdrop is a world where seafaring Polynesian cultures thrive, relying on their courage and skill to navigate the treacherous waters that surround their island homes.The narrative primarily takes place on two contrasting islands. The first is Hikueru, Mafatu's home, where his people's reverence for bravery and seafaring prowess shapes their society. The second is an unnamed, deserted island where Mafatu finds himself stranded after his courageous journey begins. This isolated setting becomes a crucible for the young protagonist's growth and self discovery.Beyond these primary locations, the novel paints a vivid picture of the Pacific Ocean itself. This vast, often unforgiving body of water serves as both a source of fear for Mafatu and the ultimate test of his developing courage. The sea, with its storms, marine life, and hidden dangers, becomes a character in its own right, shaping the course of Mafatu's transformative journey.