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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Call It Courage summary
Armstrong Sperry
Brief summary
Call It Courage by Armstrong Sperry is a captivating tale of a young boy named Mafatu who overcomes his intense fear of the ocean and proves his bravery in the face of danger. It is a story of self-discovery and resilience.
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Call It Courage
Summary of key ideas
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.
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What is Call It Courage about?
Call It Courage tells the story of a young boy named Mafatu who is determined to conquer his fear of the ocean. After being shamed by his fellow islanders, Mafatu sets out on a journey to prove his bravery. Faced with various challenges and dangers, he must rely on his wits and newfound courage to survive. This inspiring tale highlights the power of resilience and the strength found within oneself.
Call It Courage Review
Call It Courage (1940) follows a young Polynesian boy named Mafatu who overcomes his fears and learns the true meaning of courage on a daring adventure at sea. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- Explores themes of overcoming fear and adversity in a captivating and relatable way.
- Offers a unique insight into Polynesian culture and traditions, enriching the reader's knowledge and understanding.
- Packs excitement and suspense as Mafatu faces dangers and challenges, making it a thrilling and engaging read.
Who should read Call It Courage?
- Adventurous individuals seeking a story of courage and resilience
- Readers interested in exploring Polynesian culture and mythology
- Children and young adults looking for an inspiring coming-of-age tale
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Call It Courage FAQs
What is the main message of Call It Courage?
Overcoming fear and discovering inner strength is central to Call It Courage.
How long does it take to read Call It Courage?
The estimated reading time for Call It Courage is brief. The Blinkist summary can be read quickly.
Is Call It Courage a good book? Is it worth reading?
Call It Courage is a captivating tale that inspires courage. A worthwhile read.
Who is the author of Call It Courage?
The author of Call It Courage is Armstrong Sperry.
What to read after Call It Courage?
If you're wondering what to read next after Call It Courage, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Just After Sunset by Stephen King
- Whereabouts by Jhumpa Lahiri
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- Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire
- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Nunzio DeFilippis
- Side Jobs by Jim Butcher