I met Kamalani Hurley online years ago when I sold my first picture book and she was just beginning to submit hers. Fast forward a handful of years and Hurley who is a kanaka maoli (native Hawaiian) writer and professor emeritus, is publishing inspiring children’s literature that we all need to read. Her debut picture book Kaho’olawe: The True Story of an Island and Her People illustrated by Harinani Orme, was a Junior Library Guild Selection before it officially came out. It also won a starred review from the School Library Journal.
I knew early on that it would be a hit when I had the honor of reading an early draft. Her debut picture book needs to be on everyone’s shelves and in every classroom. She has generously pledged 100% of the proceeds to Protect Kaho’olawe ‘Ohana.
Okay here’s why you’ll love it as much as me.
Orme’s illustrations are lively and almost texturized with patterns that allude to traditional native Hawaiian fabric. The volcano feels like it is erupting and dolphins appear to be swimming off the page. That only adds to the layer of the history of Kaho’olawe which is gripping as it unfolds. The island itself, feels like the main character, who readers will root for. It also to me is symbolic of the native Hawaiian people and their strength and resilience to have endured attack of their culture, land, and livelihood.
It shows us the value of nature, animals and the people who protect the island. Truthfully, reading it gave me goosebumps. There is so much strength in Hurley’s words. I was holding my breath at every page turn.
Hurley’s ability to personify Kaho’olawe was smart because it gave me a sense of empathy for how it suffered, anger for those that harmed it, and a desire to want to protect it moving forward.
Kaho’olawe is a timely book not only because it helps us understand some of the control and oppression pushed forth by the US but also because it applies to what is happening now.*
If we don’t educate one another about the history of stories like Kaho’olawe, we risk it happening over and over again. Kaho’olawe is an inspiring reminder of what happens when we unite as a community to take care of each other and the land, plants, and animals that sustain all of us.
I’m happy to share that Kamalani and illustrator Harinani will be at Native Books on Nu’uanu Ave in Chinatown on February 8th from 11-1pm. I’m looking forward to meeting them both in person.
*There are talks to use the island of Oahu as new military training potentially impacting marine mammals and vegetation, which you can read about here.
