This is the land that’s never been sold, where work the hands, so wise and old, that reach through the water, clear and cold, into the mud to pick the taro to make the poi for our ohana’s luau.”
My Review:
I received a copy of this picture book from Holiday House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
I was so excited to see a diverse picture book about the traditions and lives of native Hawaiians. The follows two children as they prepare the poi for their ohana’s luau. The poetic text is in the style of The House That Jack Built which allows readers to recognize and connect to the pattern. The story focuses on the many steps of making poi including how the land, water, and air affect the growth of the Kalo. I loved the tradition and culture shared in each stanza. Ilima shows readers the importance of family food and the community coming together.
The illustrations by Kenard Park are filled with beautiful earth tones that allow readers a glimpse into the making of the luau. The back matter has a note from the author as well as a note about Kalo and Poi. The book also has a glossary that shares the Hawaiian words and definitions from the story.
This is a much needed diverse picture book that teaches readers about unknown Hawaiian culture.
Ages 5 and up
40 Pages
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