Disclosure: Complimentary books were received for review purposes.
Over the past several years, there has been a concerted effort to focus on Hawai‘i and its people, roots, tradition, culture, and foods.
Whether through workshops, dining experiences, training, books, or social media, it has been amazing to see people dive in and learn so much about their own culture or this place we are lucky to call home.
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Two children's books were recently released by BeachHouse Publishing that even adults will learn from.
Edith Kanaka‘ole: The Heart of Hulawritten by David Del Rocco and illustrated by Storm Kano
The Wayfinders biography series focuses on people integral to our culture and who have left a lasting legacy on Hawai‘i. The newest installment features Aunty Edith Kanaka‘ole - a renowned kumu, artist, and cultural practitioner.
It's an easy read for young ones to learn more about Aunty Edith's life and her community contributions, and the brief stories about her childhood and upbringing were so interesting. This book has some personal significance to me, as my work in Hilo has allowed me the good fortune to have met and worked with some of Aunty Edith's family members.
Lizards, Giants, and Gods: Stories Behind Hawaiian Place Names
written by Hugh Dunn and illustrated by Kelsie Dayna
In Lizards, Giants, and Gods, kids can learn more about the stories behind various places throughout the islands. I personally did not know the stories behind many of the place names, so I was very intrigued.
I feel it's so important for kids to learn the Hawaiian names and why the those names were chosen, as many people, myself included, only are familiar with the Western names of many of these places (eg Ke Awa Lau o Pu‘uloa vs Pearl Harbor and Mokuola vs Coconut Island). The vivid illustrations help to develop the stories, making them even more fascinating.
Definitely recommend these books to add to your keiki's library!
It's an easy read for young ones to learn more about Aunty Edith's life and her community contributions, and the brief stories about her childhood and upbringing were so interesting. This book has some personal significance to me, as my work in Hilo has allowed me the good fortune to have met and worked with some of Aunty Edith's family members.
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written by Hugh Dunn and illustrated by Kelsie Dayna
In Lizards, Giants, and Gods, kids can learn more about the stories behind various places throughout the islands. I personally did not know the stories behind many of the place names, so I was very intrigued.
I feel it's so important for kids to learn the Hawaiian names and why the those names were chosen, as many people, myself included, only are familiar with the Western names of many of these places (eg Ke Awa Lau o Pu‘uloa vs Pearl Harbor and Mokuola vs Coconut Island). The vivid illustrations help to develop the stories, making them even more fascinating.
Definitely recommend these books to add to your keiki's library!
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