Author of the Week: Lehua Parker

LEHUA PARKER writes speculative fiction for kids and adults that often explores the intersections of Hawaii’s past, present, and future. Her published works include the Niuhi Shark Saga trilogy, Lauele Universe Stories, Lauele Chicken Skin Stories, and Lauele Fractured Folktales, as well as plays, poetry, short stories, and essays. One Boy, No Water, Niuhi Shark Saga #1, was a 2017 Hawaii Children’s Choice Nene Award Nominee.

As an author, editor, and educator trained in literary criticism and advocate of indigenous cultural narratives, Lehua is a frequent presenter at conferences, symposiums, and schools. Her hands-on workshops and presentations for kids and adults are offered through the Lehua Writing Academy. She is currently the Personal Voices Editor for Dialogue Magazine and the Lit Coordinator for PEAU (Pasifika Enriching Arts of Utah).

Originally from Hawaii and a Kamehameha Schools graduate, Lehua now lives in exile in the Rocky Mountains. During the snowy winters, she dreams of the beach.

Set in contemporary Hawaii, the Niuhi Shark Saga is a young adult magic realism trilogy appropriate for grades 5 and up. It tells the story of Alexander Kaonakai Westin–Zader to his friends–and his ‘ohana. In a world where Pacific myths and legends come to life, fans of Disney’s Moana and Lilo & Stitch, The Karate Kid, and the Percy Jackson series will love The Niuhi Shark Saga trilogy. Told in standard American English, but sprinkled with Hawaiian Pidgin English and Hawaiian in the dialogue, the series paints a vibrant picture of island life where legend and tradition are as much a part of life as eating and drinking.