Call It Courage

Armstrong Sperry

Mar 2012 · Sold by Simon and Schuster

About this ebook

Maftu was afraid of the sea. It had taken his mother when he was a baby, and it seemed to him that the sea gods sought vengeance at having been cheated of Mafatu. So, though he was the son of the Great Chief of Hikueru, a race of Polynesians who worshipped courage, and he was named Stout Heart, he feared and avoided tha sea, till everyone branded him a coward. When he could no longer bear their taunts and jibes, he determined to conquer that fear or be conquered-- so he went off in his canoe, alone except for his little dog and pet albatross. A storm gave him his first challenge. Then days on a desert island found him resourceful beyond his own expectation. This is the story of how his courage grew and how he finally returned home. This is a legend. It happened many years ago, but even today the people of Hikueru sing this story and tell it over their evening fires.

Ratings and reviews

This book is one of favorite books to read. I think that this book is really well put together. The character development of mafatu from beginning to end is good. The amazing feats that mafatu and his "friends" achieve in this book are crazy. He really is a warrior. In conclusion this book is a good, short read that all ages will enjoy. So if your going to do a book report or looking for something to read I would highly suggest this book. It's old but gold.

I read this book as a child & it was mesmerizing. After all these years, it's still mesmerizing to me!

I read this book as a young man and I have loved it since. One of my true favorites.

About the author

Armstrong Sperry (1897–1976) is the author of many books for young readers, including Call It Courage, All Sail Set, Lost Lagoon, and Hull-Down for Action.