These 7 Books Are Essential To Understanding Hawaiian Culture

Hawaiian authors strive to inspire the stories of Hawaii’s rich history through impactful pieces of literature. While the islands are in many ways indescribable, a number of works share the history, journey, and culture that are the essence of Hawaii. Here are seven of the must-reads about the Aloha State.

Fiction

Hawaii by James A. Michener

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 by Alan Brennert

Shark Dialogues by Kiana Davenport

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.

From Here to Eternity by James Jones

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.

Non-Fiction

Travelers’ Tales Hawaii: True Stories by Rick Carroll

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.

Eddie Would Go: The Story of Eddie Aikau, Hawaiian Hero and Pioneer of Big Wave Surfing by Stuart Holmes Coleman

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.

Mythology

Pele: Goddess of Hawaii’s Volcanoes by Herb Kawainui Kane

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.

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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