Aria

by Jessica Hinerangi

A first book of poetry and a Maori coming-of-age story.

Genres: Poetry, Activism

76 pages, Paperback

Published December 13, 2023

Reviews

[Stef Rozitis]

I'm not putting stars on poetry anymore because I don't trust my tastes enough when I don't get something.

but this one...I would have given it five stars if I was going to give stars. It was a very worthwhile read.

[Reading Lady Molly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The most underrated, beautiful work of art that I have ever read and more people need to read this.

This gorgeous pukapuka caught my eye at my local library and now I am going to run to the book shop to purchase this because I want to read this again.

This is one of those reads you want to pick up again and again.

I am infinitely impressed by the talent we have in aotearoa.

Many of my favourite writers are wahine māori and I am happy to add Jessica Hinerangi (a.k.a @māori mermaid) to the list.

Soulful. Soul cleansing. Transcendent. 5 stars.

[Soph]

I really enjoyed a lot of these poems - I’ve already started a re-read, reading aloud with my partner so I can think more about what I’ve just read.

[Leo · Rating 5 out of 5]

TW: Experienced racism, colourism, intergenerational trauma,

Brilliant collection of many varied types of poetry, some fun and experimental, others with such power you feel the words echo off the page. I will be revisitingbthis collection often.

[Rowena Poroa · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful book about feeling the imposter syndrome within the Maori community. Feeling you're not Maori enough because you don't eat seafood or experience anxiety. A great book about connecting to your roots and reclaiming your Maoritanga. Tihei Mauri Ora!

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading poetry from this writer was a breath of fresh Aotearoa air. I wish her well and need to read more from NZ writers.

[Tiff Wasley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this slowly throughout the year. Diving in an out of the poems as if they were the moana they sometimes talk about.

[3 · Rating 5 out of 5]

fantastic!!

[Anna Carr · Rating 5 out of 5]

adored this collection of poetry - some were exquisite stories in their selves. Makes me wonder why dont more people read poetry - perfect for planes/should be stocked in all bookstores. Spread the word as Aria is captivating.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

🧠 = Āria by Jessica Hinerangi