Books like Call It Courage by Armstrong Sperry
Mafatu has lived his life shaken by the sea he fears, even though his father serves as the Great Chief of the island of Hikueru, where seafaring people revere bravery. Taunted and blamed for storms, he feels an outsider among the island’s courageous culture. At fifteen, he resolves to confront his terror. With his faithful dog Uri by his side, Mafatu paddles into the open ocean, determined to face his fears alone.
During this solitary journey he learns the lessons that will forever change his outlook and earn him the respect of his people, turning him into a local hero. The story is a youth adventure that blends Polynesian folklore with themes of survival, courage, and perseverance in a way that encourages character growth and resilience.
First publish date: 1940
Genre: Children's Fiction/Children's Adventure
Authors: Armstrong Sperry
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