Code Word Courage

Written by Kirby Larson

Part of the Dogs of World War II series

A girl, a Navajo Code Talker, and a dog face wartime challenges and search for family.

3.9/5 Goodreads · 477 ratings

256 pages

$6.99Save 4%

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Bookroo's summary

In 1944, young Billie clings to her brother Leo before he leaves for war, bringing home Denny, a Navajo Code Talker, and an injured dog named Bear. As Billie bonds with Bear, she grapples with loss, the search for her father, and the fear of losing Leo. With Denny's departure, Billie must find strength and hope on the home front. Can Bear help her discover what truly matters amidst the chaos of war? This tale of friendship and courage explores the unsung heroism of WWII both on the battlefield and at home.

From the publisher

Newbery Honor-winning author Kirby Larson delivers a heartwarming story of friendship, love, and courage, and the incredible contributions of Navajo Code Talkers during WWII.Billie has lived with her great-aunt ever since her mom passed away and her dad left. Billie’s big brother, Leo, is about to leave, too, for the warfront. But first, she gets one more weekend with him at the ranch.Billie’s surprised when Leo brings home a fellow Marine from boot camp, Denny. She has so much to ask Leo – about losing her best friend and trying to find their father – but Denny, who is Navajo, or Diné, comes with something special: a gorgeous, but injured, stray dog. As Billie cares for the dog, whom they name Bear, she and Bear grow deeply attached to each other.Soon enough, it’s time for Leo and Denny, a Navajo Code Talker, to ship out. Billie does her part for the war effort, but she worries whether Leo and Denny will make it home, whether she’ll find a new friend, and if her father will ever come back. Can Bear help Billie – and Denny – find what’s most important?A powerful tale about unsung heroism on the WWII battlefield and the home front.

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