Kaho’olawe: The True Story of an Island and Her People

ISBN

9798765605011

Publisher & Publication Year

Lerner/Millbrook, 2025

Publisher's Book Page

Author

Kamalani Hurley (Native Hawaiian)

Author's Website 

Illustrator

Harinani Orme (Native Hawaiian)

Synopsis

Summary

Beginning with her birth in a volcanic eruption, Kaho‘olawe thrives surrounded by animals on land and in the sea. When Polynesian voyagers arrive and begin to raise their families there, the island is happy. As the years pass, invasive goats devastate the ecosystem, and during World War II and the decades that follow, the US military claims the island for target practice. Kaho‘olawe is hurt. Yet activists never give up on the island, and they finally succeed in reclaiming her Kaho‘olawe endures.

Notable Achievements

Reviews

School Library Journal: “A stunningly beautiful book that tells the story of destruction, devastation, and resilience, of both the human and natural world. . . The artwork tells the story in dramatic, compelling, and beautiful ways. Together, text and art will engage readers from the first page.”

Educator Guide

Link to Guide

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