This compilation of writings by John Papa ‘I‘i is selected from articles he wrote for the Hawaiian language newspaper Ka Nupepa Kuokoa between 1866 and 1870. ‘I‘i wrote with authority on a broad range of historical and cultural subjects as well as on matters of the greatest concern to Hawaiians of his day. He presents personal experience as well as an abundance of details about events and customs. His writings are a unique and invaluable record, describing life under the Kamehamehas with the authority of a firsthand witness and revealing the pattern of Hawaiian culture as it actually happened.

John Papa ‘I‘i, born in 1800, was raised under the traditional kapu system and trained from early childhood for a life of service to the high chiefs. At the age of 10, he became a companion and personal attendant to Liholiho (later Kamehameha II), continued to serve the rulers of Hawai‘i after Liholiho's death, amd was in constant contact with the political, religious, and social concerns of the court throughout his life. He was among the first Hawaiians to study reading and writing with the missionaries, and although he adopted Christian teachings, ‘I‘i retained a profound love and respect for the culture of his ancestors.

Translated by Mary Kawena Pukui

Cover art by Solomon Enos.

$14.95

isbn 978-0-910240-31-4

softcover, 6x9, 212pp.

Available at Bishop Museum's Shop Pacifica (phone 808-848-4158, email at shop@bishopmuseum.org ) and other fine bookstores throughout the islands.

Tags: Bishop Museum Press, Hawaiian culture, Hawaiian Traditions, John Papa ‘I‘i

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