Call It Courage summary

Confronting Fear and Embracing Courage

In Call It Courage by Armstrong Sperry, we are introduced to Mafatu, a young Polynesian boy who is terrified of the sea. His fear is rooted in a traumatic childhood experience when he and his mother were swept away by a storm, leaving him as the only survivor. This incident earned him the nickname 'Coward' from his peers, and he is constantly ridiculed for his fear.

Despite the ridicule, Mafatu is determined to overcome his fear. He decides to build a canoe and sail out into the ocean, accompanied only by his loyal dog, Uri, and his albatross, Kivi. His journey begins with a fierce storm that threatens to capsize his canoe, but Mafatu's determination and resourcefulness help him survive.

Survival on a Deserted Island

After the storm, Mafatu finds himself washed ashore on a deserted island. Here, he must rely on his wits and courage to survive. He builds a shelter, finds food, and learns to coexist with the island's wildlife. Over time, Mafatu's fear of the sea begins to diminish as he realizes his own capabilities and resilience.

During his time on the island, Mafatu also faces and defeats a fierce boar, which he names 'The Mighty One'. This victory further bolsters his confidence and self-belief. He begins to see himself not as a coward, but as a brave and capable young man.

Conquering Fear and Returning Home

After spending several months on the island, Mafatu decides it is time to return home. He has conquered his fear of the sea and is eager to prove his newfound courage to his people. He builds a new canoe and sets sail, accompanied by his faithful companions, Uri and Kivi.

Upon his return, Mafatu is initially met with disbelief and skepticism. However, his triumphant taming of The Mighty One and his incredible survival story eventually win over the hearts of his people. He is welcomed back as a hero, and his former nickname of 'Coward' is replaced with a new one, 'Mafatu, the Brave'.

The Power of Courage and Self-Discovery

In conclusion, Call It Courage is a powerful coming-of-age story that explores the themes of fear, courage, and self-discovery. Through Mafatu's journey, we witness the transformative power of facing our fears and the strength that comes from self-reliance and resilience.

Sperry's vivid descriptions of the Polynesian culture and the natural world add depth and richness to the narrative, making Mafatu's journey even more compelling. Ultimately, Call It Courage is a timeless tale that reminds us of the importance of courage and the potential for growth and transformation that lies within each of us.