Other editions of book Call It Courage

A legendary adventure story of how Mafatu, the son of the Great Chief of Hikueru, a Polynesian race who worship courage, conquers his fear of the sea and proves he isn't a coward. "Mafatu's story has a strength and simplicity that appeal to a wide range in age, and it is beautifully told".--New York Times Book Review. Newbery Medal; ALA Notable Children's Book.

Mafatu's name means "Stout Heart," but his people call him a coward. Ever since the sea took his mother's life and spared his own, he has lived with deep fear. And even though his father is the Great Chief of Hikueru--an island whose seafaring people worship courage--he is terrified, and consequently, he is severely scorned.By the time he is twelve years old, Mafatu can bear it no longer. He must conquer his fear alone. . . even if it means certain death.This classic tale of a young boy's hidden strength has been a favorite of readers of all ages since its 1940 publication--now this exclusive audio preserves its original poignancy and splendor, and brings Mafatu to life for future generations of listeners.Highlights of Lou Diamond Phillips's film credits include Courage Under Fire, Young Guns II, Stand and Deliver, and La Bamba. An accomplished stage actor, he starred in the critically acclaimed Broadway revival of The King and I.

Mafatu has been afraid of the sea for as long as he can remember. Though his father is the Great Chief of Hikueru - an island whose seafaring people worship courage - Mafatu feels like an outsider. All his life he has been teased, taunted, and even blamed for storms on the sea. Then at age fifteen, no longer willing to put up with the ridicule and jibes, Mafatu decides to take his fate into his own hands. With his dog, Uri, as his companion, Mafatu paddles out to sea, ready to face his fears. What he learns on his lonesome adventure will change him forever and make him a hero in the eyes of his people.