Kalakaua: Renaissance King

by Helena G. Allen

This book spotlights some crucial years of the Hawaiian monarchy – the period of Kalakaua’s reign preceding the overthrow of the monarchy by the United States Government.

Genres: Nonfiction, History

320 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published April 1, 1994

Reviews

[Em · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid history on the life of King David Kalakaua of Hawaii - from his birth to his death and the legacy he left behind. The author, Helena G. Allen, does a good job at pointing out both Kalakaua's strengths and flaws, painting a picture of a very human leader. You can tell that she has great respect for her subject and for Hawaii. It did take me awhile to get through because the author can be a little dry at times. Allen also wrote books on Queen Liliuokalani and Sanford B. Dole (which you can find under her author page-- don't understand why this book isn't attributed to her on Goodreads considering its clear she wrote it from the book cover). I do plan to read these books as well so I can get a full picture of Hawaii politics during this late nineteenth/early twentieth century.

[VPM · Rating 2 out of 5]

Happy to have the historical background this book offers. It is not always well organized. However, I received much insight into the Hawaiian culture. A better appreciation of the way a people can be conquered because it values things which are worthwhile and precious, and does not understand the strengths and powers of the conquerors.