Interview with Author/Illustrator Yuko Green
Pick up any popular children’s book in Hawai’i, and chances are that it is illustrated by Yuko Green. The award-winning author/illustrator of dozens of children’s picture and activity books, Yuko’s mixed-media artwork is unmistakable with its vibrant colors and delightful subjects that children love. Her work celebrates the people, nature, and traditions of our islands. We are so pleased to talk story with Yuko Green today.
Interview with Native Hawaiian/Guamanian Author Catherine Payne
Native Hawaiian/Guamanian author Catherine Payne lives by the ancient Chamorro making things right. An important part of inafaʻ maolek is that the whole community, not just the nuclear family, is responsible for raising healthy, happy children. The author of five children’s books, Cathy believes that picture books can be key to opening conversations between children and grown-ups. We certainly agree. Welcome, Cathy, to our talk story!
Interview with Native Hawaiian Author Megan Kamalei Kakimoto
Native Hawaiian author Megan Kamalei Kakimoto is a rare literary gem: a storyteller of YA and adult subject matter that is authentically rooted in Native Hawaiian life experiences. Her USA Today National Bestseller, Every Drop is a Man’s Nightmare, is a short story collection that reviewers describe as “powerful coming-of-age stories,” “rich and wise, humming with confidence,” and “a blazing, raucous journey through contemporary Hawaiian identity and womanhood.” We are so pleased to talk story with Megan today.
Interview with Native Hawaiian Filmmaker Keoni Kealoha Alvarez
Native Hawaiian filmmaker Keoni Kealoha Alvarez is a man of many talents and interests. He is a director, producer, teacher, and author, and most of all, a storyteller. We are pleased to welcome Keoni to our blog today as the first post of 2024.
Mahalo, 2023!
What a year it’s been! As 2023 ends, I look back with much aloha and gratitude for the many people who have made such a difference in my writing life. Mahalo nui loa …
Book Review: Aloha Everything
You know me. I lOVE books, art, and films that focus on the Native Hawaiian community and our Pacific Island cousins. I love them so much that my blog focuses on interviewing these amazing creators. As native peoples, our voices have traditionally been underrepresented. Thankfully, this is changing, with books by Native Hawaiian/Polynesian authors including Gabby Ahuli’i, Tammy Paikai, Malia Maunakea, Shar Tuiʻasoa, and Brook Parker entering the market. Kaylin Melia Georgeʻs Aloha Everything is a beautiful, sweeping introduction to Hawaiian culture and history, especially helpful for those unfamiliar with the Native Hawaiian people.