Hawaiian Myths of Earth, Sea, and Sky

by Vivian L. Thompson

Book Overview

When the storytellers of ancient Hawaii gathered by the light of candlenut torches, they told tales that explained the world around them. These tales described how the gods created the earth and its life, how the stars were created, and why the days are longer in summer. Other stories recounted the pranks of Kamapuaa the Pig-Man, the origin of the tapa tree, the death of the monster reptile mo-o, and the home of the volcano goddess, Pele.

From...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0824811712
• ISBN13: 9780824811716
• Release Date: May 1988
• Publisher: University of Hawaii Press
• Length: 88 Pages
• Weight: 0.38 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 6.0" x 9.1"
• Age Range: 9 to 12 years
• Grade Range: Grades 4 to 7

Customer Reviews

Easy to Read Myths from the Hawaiian Islands

I bought HAWAIIAN MYTHS OF EARTH, SEA, AND SKY by Vivian L. Thompson while at Volcanoes National Park in Hawaii, and it ended up being my beach book for one afternoon. It covered 12 Hawaiian myths in easy-to-read language, and included a helpful glossary (with pronunciation). The book is only 80 pages long, but it has quite a few illustrations, and could easily be shared with children interested in Hawaii's culture and beliefs. Being an adult, I enjoyed the stories immensely, and felt it enhanced my trip to Hawaii by putting me in a Hawaiian mindset and giving me rich detail on the unique outlook Hawaiians had about their beautiful island home.

Amazing Legends

This is a very interesting book. I learned a lot of new information about what the Hawaiians believe is their origin and history. These stories are fascinating and very entertaining. I would read them over and over again if I could. Even though I have my own culture and traditions it is wonderful to share in these Hawaiian myths and traditions. My favorite myth is the story that explains the Stone of Puna. In this legend we learn how, the Hawaiian godess, Pele breaks her promise to, Hiaka, her sister and turns Hiaka's friend into the Stone of Puna that sways with every breeze. I recommend this book to everyone interested in Hawaii and the ancient myths and legends, that explain the creation of Hawaii, its natural wonders and beautiful people.