A classic Hawaiian romance reimagined for modern readers.
Based on Hawaiian mythology, The Hawaiian Romance of Laieikawai (1863) by S.N. Hale‘ole accounts the story of young Laʻieikawai, the daughter of a powerful chief on Oahu. After Laʻieikawai’s life is threatened, she is forced to flee Oahu and take refuge in a secret cave under the water. Her grandmother takes her to the legendary paradise of Paliuli where she encounters romance, riches, and the supernatural, but also trials that test her character.
Hale‘ole’s story was the first work of literature published by a Native Hawaiian and serves as a moving representation of traditions passed down through generations.
Explore La’ieikawai’s story by adding this staple of Hawaiian literature to your library today.
About the author
S.N. Hale‘ole (1819-1866) was a Native Hawaiian writer and historian. Born at a time of monumental change in the Kingdom of Hawaii, Hale‘ole was among the first generation of Hawaiians to be educated by American missionaries. He attended Lahainaluna Seminary from 1834 to 1838, studying ancient Hawaiian history under Lorrin Andrews and Sheldon Dibble. After graduation, Hale‘ole worked as a teacher in Haiku, Maui, before embarking on a career as a writer and editor. In the last decade of his life, Hale‘ole dedicated himself to writing The Hawaiian Romance of Laieikawai (1863), a story based on songs from the Hawaiian oral tradition. Upon publication, it became the first work of literature from a Native Hawaiian, securing Hale‘ole’s status as a leading intellectual among his people and bringing the story of Hawaii to the world stage.More ebooks from the same author(s) / Editor
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