Malia Maunakea is scheduled to visit on Friday, September 29 at 3 pm. Join us in the courtyard for a chat with the author of the captivating middle-school book, "Lei and the Fire Goddess."
"Lei and the Fire Goddess" skillfully blends preteen challenges with cherished Hawaiian moʻolelo, creating a unique narrative that has garnered praise. Actress and Disney's Princess Moana voice, Auliʻi Cravalho, commends the book for its fresh approach.
Malia Maunakea, a part-Hawaiian writer, spent her early years in the Big Island rainforest before moving to Oʻahu in seventh grade. She later ventured to the mainland for college. When not writing, she explores the Colorado Rocky Mountains with her husband, two children, and rescue mutt, Peggy. Connect with Malia online at maliamaunakea.com and on Twitter @MaliaMaunakea.
"Lei and the Fire Goddess" follows twelve-year-old Anna Leilani Kamaʻehu, who dismisses her grandmother's tales of sacred flowers and family guardians as mere legends. Her friends in Colorado share this skepticism, favoring science and sports. During a visit to Hawaiʻi, Anna's vacation plans take an unexpected turn when she accidentally insults Pele, the fire goddess, and sets off a series of mythical events. To rescue her kidnapped best friend and undo the curse, Anna must embrace her Hawaiian heritage and face legendary challenges with demigods, talking bats, and more.
Malia Maunakea's enchanting tale offers a thrilling adventure that intertwines preteen struggles with the rich tapestry of Hawaiian culture and mythology.
Live author event on Sept. 29, 2023 @3PM