A new album by Nāpua, personal letters from Queen Emma, a novel and a volume of poetry are among the latest releases from local authors, scholars and musicians.
Other recent titles include “Hoʻi Hou Ka Mauli Ola: Pathways to Hawaiian Health” edited by Winona K. Mesiona Lee and Mele A. Look” and “The Hawaiian Horse” by Billy and Brady Bergin.
In Haste with Aloha: Letters and Diaries of Queen Emma, 1881-1885
Edited by David W. Forbes
University of Hawaiʻi Press
$45
This volume features 90 previously unpublished letters written by Queen Emma during the last five years of her life. The letters, drawn from the Hawaiʻi State Archives and diaries held in Bishop Museum’s libraries and archives, offer a unique aliʻi perspective on royal social life and customs. Written primarily in English, the letters include descriptions of other aliʻi, including her relatives Bernice Pauahi Bishop and Ruth Keʻelikōlani.
What We Must Remember
By Christy Passion, Ann Inoshita, Juliet S. Kono and Jean Yamasaki Toyama
Bamboo Ridge Press
$18
What We Must Remember explores the 1932 “Massie Case” through 28 linked poems. Massie scholar John P. Rosa provides an introduction and timeline of events that led to the kidnapping and murder of Native Hawaiian prize- fighter Joseph Kahahawai. The poems, linked verses with commentary from the poets, consider the implications of the historical events that continue to be relevant today.
Yakudoshi: Age of Calamity
By Chris McKinney
Mutual Publishing
$13.95
Chris McKinney revists Oʻahu’s underworld, this time through main character Bruce Blanc, who has just been released from prison. About to turn 41, Blanc is in his yakudoshi year and his bad luck includes the disappearance of his son, whom he has never met. Set against the backdrop of Honolulu’s nightlife scene, McKinney’s latest novel explores the lengths Blanc goes to out of love for his child.
“Makawalu”
By Nāpua
Pihana Productions
$15.98
Four-time Nā Hōkū Hanohano award winner Nāpua’s new album was five years in the making. “Makawalu” features guest musicians Kamakoa Lindsey-Asing, Zachary Lum, Kamuela Kimokeo, Hoʻomanawanui Apo, Kihei Nahale-a, Sean Naleimaile and Denny Hemingson. A kumu hula and cultural practitioner, Nāpua’s mele encourage listeners to look to the past to navigate modern challenges.