“A good story entertains and it also teaches,” Joseph Bruchac, author of “Code Talker: A Novel About the Navajo Marines of World War II,” told Holbrook High School students during a recent visit sponsored by the Arizona State Library.

As part of the ONEBOOKAZ program, Bruchac spent time teaching the students about storytelling, writ-ing and the importance of listening. He noted that many of his more than 100 books are based on real people and events, and he always makes sure the people involved have a chance to read and approve the story before it is printed.

He was inspired to write “Code Talker,” the story of a 16-year old Navajo boy who joins the Marines during World War II, in part because he felt the story had not yet been told well from the Navajo point of view, and also because of the importance of the topic.

“We need to hear stories about war. It reminds us of the importance of peace,” Bruchac said.

He interviewed many code talkers during his research for the book, and noted that his story of Ned Begay is based on a real-life account.

“I felt blessed that they would share their story with me,” he said. “They trust me to do the right thing with it.”

Principal Lance Phaturos asked Bruchac about the underlying theme of cultural barriers, and how he came up with the idea.

Bruchac explained that it also came from actual events, such as attacks on code talkers from fellow American soldiers who believed them to be Japanese soldiers masquerading as Americans.

“They were assaulted because they were thought to be Japanese,” he said. “So they were each assigned a bodyguard. And throughout the war they got to know each other as human beings.”

Bruchac gave students advice on writing, and on life in general, such as remembering that there are two sides to every story, listening closely to other people’s life stories and the importance of finding your own voice. He also told the students who are interested in writing that they should write about things they are pas-sionate about, and write every day.

“I’m always hearing stories,” he said. “I always listen to them while they’re telling me.”