Pele and Hi'iaka: A Tale of Two Sisters

by Dietrich Varez

Pele and Hi'iaka is a timeless tale of passion, betrayal, healing and reconciliation. One of Hawaiian mythology's greatest epics is freshly interpreted by Dietrich Varez, one of Hawai'i's most celebrated artists. The story of Pele, goddess of Hawai'i's volcanoes, and her youngest sister, Hi'iakaikapoliopele is retold and lavishly illustrated with the artist s iconic block prints. The sensitive visual interpretation and simplified text honor the rich mythology passed through Hawaiian oral tradition.This picture-book style presentation offers a fresh visual tribute to these enduring mythical figures with the turning of each page. After a quarrel with her sister, the sea goddess Namakaokaha'i, Pele fled her homeland of Kahiki accompanied by members of her family. She settled into the fiery lava pit of Kilauea, in the upland region of Hawai'i island. Deep in a dream, Pele, in her spirit form, followed the sounds of hula pahu drums. She arrived at Kaua'i and was immediately captivated by the handsome young chief, Lohi'au. When she awoke, Pele asked each of her sisters to go fetch her new lover. Hi'iaka agreed to undertake the perilous journey. With her companions, Hi'iaka encountered many adventures on her travels throughout the Hawaiian islands battling reptilian mo'o and other evil creatures, helping people in need, making new friends and visiting old ones. Pele and Hi'iaka is ultimately a testament to the enduring power of love.

Genres: History

88 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2011

Reviews

[Kristin · Rating 3 out of 5]

bought this at Kilauea’s visitor’s center in HI & enjoyed it, was entertaining for a quick car ride

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This short story is a myth about Pele and a mission on which she sends her sister. It is based on an English version of the oral story written down a century ago. It is fascinating to read a myth from this culture in narrative detail. In it, Pele and especially Hi'iaka are strong, powerful women, which is refreshing in ancient myth. The block prints in this book are really rather lovely, and enrich the fairly short tale.

[Chen Wing Hei Micheline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pele is the goddess of Hawaii's volcanoes, she has a younger sister, Hi'iaka. Pele fell asleep and fell in love with a man called Lohi'au. After waking up, Pele requested Hi'iaka to escort Lohi'au. Both goddesses laid down strict rules and agreed to follow them.
Rules:
1. Pele can't touch or show any affection to Lohi'au during the trip.
2. Pele will have Lohi'au for 5 days before Hi'iaka can have him for her own.
3. Hi'iaka will be given special spiritual powers to confront perils.
4. Pele can't destroy the lehua forest that Hi'iaka loves.
5. Pele can't harm Hopoe, Hi'iaka's best friend.
As a complicated love relationships form, can both sisters hold their end of their bargain?

[Cassie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great companion to read alongside, before, after, or as a refresher to Nathaniel Emerson’s epic tale of Pele and Hi’iaka. The illustrations in this one by Dietrich are just amazing!! Definitely adding this to my Hawaiiana book collection.

[Bat713 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a retelling of the Hawaiian myth illustrated with gorgeous woodcuts. I just are it up.

[Mills College Library]

899.4209 V296p 2011

[Tiare · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful artwork and storytelling

[Bonnie Irwin · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely rendering of a Hawaiian myth of Pele, goddess of the volcano, and Hi'iaka, her sister. The stunning illustrations by Varez almost tell the story in themselves.

[Whitney · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great story with beautiful block print illustrations. A quick read - I finished it in just an hour or two. It was refreshing to read a myth where the characters in the story are primarily women.