Call It Courage

Mafatu has been scared of the ocean for as long as he can remember. That’s not easy when you live on Hikueru, an island where everyone is proud of their bravery—and where Mafatu’s own father is the Great Chief. Because Mafatu fears the sea, some kids tease him, and others even blame him for bad storms. He often feels like he doesn’t belong.

But when Mafatu turns fifteen, he decides he’s had enough of the teasing. With his loyal dog, Uri, by his side, he paddles out into the wide, open ocean to face the thing that frightens him most. His journey is full of challenges, but it also teaches him strength he never knew he had.

By the time Mafatu returns home, he has discovered courage in his own way—and becomes a hero in the eyes of his people.