5 Best Hawaiian History Books
Hawai’i is a sacred and fascinating place with a rich cultural history. If you live here or are considering moving here, I strongly encourage you to dive deeper into learning more about the rich history of these islands. Here are five great books recommendations to get started:
Hawaii by James A. Michener. This classic novel tells the story of Hawaii from its earliest Polynesian inhabitants to its annexation by the United States. Michener's sweeping narrative is full of colorful characters and vivid descriptions of Hawaiian culture.
2. Unfamiliar Fishes by Sarah Vowell. This non-fiction book tells the story of James Cook's arrival in Hawaii in 1778 and its impact on the Hawaiian people. Vowell's witty and insightful writing brings to life this pivotal moment in Hawaiian history.
3. Shoal of Time by Gavan Daws. This comprehensive history of Hawaii tells the story of the islands from their discovery by Europeans to the present day. Daws's book is well-researched and balanced, and it provides a valuable overview of Hawaiian history.
4. The Betrayal of Liliuokalani by Helen G. Allen. This book tells the story of the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893. Allen's book is a must-read for anyone interested in learning more about this dark chapter in Hawaiian history.
5. Ka Mooolelo Hawaii by David Malo. This book is the first comprehensive history of Hawaii written by a Hawaiian. Malo's book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning about Hawaiian culture and history from a native perspective.
These are just a few of the many great books that have been written about Hawaiian history. In addition to these books, there are a number of other great resources for learning about Hawaiian history. The Hawaiian Historical Society has a website with a wealth of information, including articles, biographies, and timelines. The University of Hawaii Press also publishes a number of books on Hawaiian history, culture, and language.
No matter how you choose to learn about Hawaiian history, it will lead to a deeper connection and experience to your time here on these islands.