These 7 Books are Essential to Understanding Hawaiian Culture

Michener’s 1959 classic retells the complex history of Hawaii, starting with its geologic formation and early settlement until statehood. Fictional stories are interlaced with historical truths adding to the narrative of an evolving Hawaiian identity. This time-honored saga—probably even read by your mother—has influenced more than a few vacation bucket lists.

Honolulu captures the intimate emotions of Hawaii’s ethnically diverse residents during the sugar industry boom in the early 1900s. This historical fiction focuses on a young Korean picture bride who left her native land in search of a better life in the islands. Brennert’s earlier novel Moloka’i is a moving tale about the infamous leprosy quarantine in Kalaupapa and also deserves attention.

Davenport expertly showcases the complexities surrounding Hawaii’s history, politics, and heritage through the story of Pono and her granddaughters. Shark Dialogues mixes fantasy with island history—incorporating the whaling industry, leprosy epidemic, foreign immigration, the Hawaiian monarchy, and more.

This is the first book in the World War II inspired trilogy and explores the daily life of soldiers stationed at the Pearl Harbor army base leading up to the 1941 attack. Readers should opt for the restored edition which includes sections that were censored during the book’s original print run in the 1950s.

This collection of contemporary short stories and essays includes works from well-known writers like Barbara Kingsolver and Paul Theroux, alongside lesser known local and Native Hawaiian authors. The short personal travel stories make this book a great beach read.

If you ever spent time in Hawaii, you may have noticed t-shirts and stickers with the phrase “Eddie would go” or heard about the Quiksilver Big Wave Invitational in Memory of Eddie Aikau nicknamed “The Eddie.” This book recounts the incredible life of Eddie Aikau—a talented big-wave surfer, Waimea Bay lifeguard, and exceptional waterman, who sacrificed his life for his crew mates after the Hokuleʻa voyaging canoe capsized.

Pele, Hawaii’s most revered goddess is brought to life through Kane’s stunning artwork and compelling tales. The book highlights a few of the most famous legends and folklore surrounding the mysterious goddess of fire.