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The Shark Prince
From the award-winning author of the Lei and the Legends duology comes a sharp new fantasy about a Hawaiian boy who can transform into what people fear most: a shark.
Why go to school if you're destined to die?
In a small Hawaiian village, Nohea is the latest son in a long line of male ancestors with a horrible secret: he's half-human, half-shark. After his father—also cursed as a shark—kills someone who is surfing and subsequently disappears, Nohea is left isolated with only his mom as company. He knows he'll suffer the same fate one day, so he can't go to school or make any friends.
Worse yet, when he eventually succumbs to his shark-like cravings, he'll be put to death and his family will be kicked out of their home on the Hawaiian homelands. But when Nohea sees a flyer for a surf competition three valleys over, he realizes the prize money might be enough to move his family to a new home when he's gone. The catch? The competition is for school teams only.
So taking the biggest risk yet, Nohea joins the local public seventh-grade class, where he makes new friends, contends with a school bully, and gets so angry, he discovers a new row of supersharp teeth in his mouth! But this is only the beginning of Nohea's problems.
Because soon, Nohea realizes that, one by one, his surfing friends are disappearing. Is Noeha killing his classmates without knowing it? Or is something even more dangerous afoot?
Why go to school if you're destined to die?
In a small Hawaiian village, Nohea is the latest son in a long line of male ancestors with a horrible secret: he's half-human, half-shark. After his father—also cursed as a shark—kills someone who is surfing and subsequently disappears, Nohea is left isolated with only his mom as company. He knows he'll suffer the same fate one day, so he can't go to school or make any friends.
Worse yet, when he eventually succumbs to his shark-like cravings, he'll be put to death and his family will be kicked out of their home on the Hawaiian homelands. But when Nohea sees a flyer for a surf competition three valleys over, he realizes the prize money might be enough to move his family to a new home when he's gone. The catch? The competition is for school teams only.
So taking the biggest risk yet, Nohea joins the local public seventh-grade class, where he makes new friends, contends with a school bully, and gets so angry, he discovers a new row of supersharp teeth in his mouth! But this is only the beginning of Nohea's problems.
Because soon, Nohea realizes that, one by one, his surfing friends are disappearing. Is Noeha killing his classmates without knowing it? Or is something even more dangerous afoot?
368 pages, Hardcover
Published May 5, 2026
About the author
Malia Maunakea
5 books127 followersMalia Maunakea is a Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian) writer who grew up in the rainforest of the Big Island before moving to a valley in Oʻahu in seventh grade to attend a school founded by a Hawaiian princess (Imua, Kamehameha!).
Though she relocated to Colorado for college, Hawaiʻi has remained in her heart. Now, instead of tromping through the rainforest, she roams the Rocky Mountains with her husband, two children, and rescue mutt, Peggy.
Growing up with ADHD meant school could be tough, but Hawaiian legends managed to captivate Malia’s imagination and stuck. Her ever-whirring brain is excited to spin new tales for the next generation, especially when she can weave in a whisper of island lore.
Though she relocated to Colorado for college, Hawaiʻi has remained in her heart. Now, instead of tromping through the rainforest, she roams the Rocky Mountains with her husband, two children, and rescue mutt, Peggy.
Growing up with ADHD meant school could be tough, but Hawaiian legends managed to captivate Malia’s imagination and stuck. Her ever-whirring brain is excited to spin new tales for the next generation, especially when she can weave in a whisper of island lore.
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June 18, 2026Really Enjoyed It, 4 stars
I really wish that this book had existed when I was a kid, I would have absolutely eaten it up. That being said, I had a great time with it!
In this we follow Nohea, the shark prince. His paternal family line is destined to turn into a shark. Before Nohea was born, his father sharked out during a surfing competition, killed a competitor, and disappeared never to be seen again. Knowing that this is his fate, Nohea is very isolated from his community, being homeschooled by his mother, and really only interacting with his mom, grandma, and his mom's boss, the owner of the local grocery store. When a developer starts talking around to people in the community and giving them offers to purchase their land, his mother is tempted to get Nohea away from the ocean and be able to provide more for him. Nohea wants nothing to do with this and convinces her to let him enter a surfing competition. The only problem is that it is for school teams only. Now he must begin formal schooling for the first time in his life and maintain his calm and composure to keep from sharking out.
I loved all the bits and pieces about Native Hawaiian culture and history in this. I thought that was one of the strongest pieces in it. I also really loved Nohea's journey to letting people in when he had spent so long closed off from others. That was really quite endearing and felt like it was done in a realistic way. I loved Notch, the baby monk seal and her relationship with Nohea.
I think that reading this as an adult, it felt like it wraps up too easily and there are some pieces that feel a bit like plot armor. However, I think that this is an excellent book for middle grade audiences, and something that I would have loved to read. There is enough of the magic and speculative elements twined with the genuine historical information that is exactly what I would have loved as a kid. I think it is so important to expose young readers to different cultures, and one of the ways that we can do that is through literature.
While this may not be a new favorite, it is one that I will recommend to middle grade readers in my life!
I really wish that this book had existed when I was a kid, I would have absolutely eaten it up. That being said, I had a great time with it!
In this we follow Nohea, the shark prince. His paternal family line is destined to turn into a shark. Before Nohea was born, his father sharked out during a surfing competition, killed a competitor, and disappeared never to be seen again. Knowing that this is his fate, Nohea is very isolated from his community, being homeschooled by his mother, and really only interacting with his mom, grandma, and his mom's boss, the owner of the local grocery store. When a developer starts talking around to people in the community and giving them offers to purchase their land, his mother is tempted to get Nohea away from the ocean and be able to provide more for him. Nohea wants nothing to do with this and convinces her to let him enter a surfing competition. The only problem is that it is for school teams only. Now he must begin formal schooling for the first time in his life and maintain his calm and composure to keep from sharking out.
I loved all the bits and pieces about Native Hawaiian culture and history in this. I thought that was one of the strongest pieces in it. I also really loved Nohea's journey to letting people in when he had spent so long closed off from others. That was really quite endearing and felt like it was done in a realistic way. I loved Notch, the baby monk seal and her relationship with Nohea.
I think that reading this as an adult, it felt like it wraps up too easily and there are some pieces that feel a bit like plot armor. However, I think that this is an excellent book for middle grade audiences, and something that I would have loved to read. There is enough of the magic and speculative elements twined with the genuine historical information that is exactly what I would have loved as a kid. I think it is so important to expose young readers to different cultures, and one of the ways that we can do that is through literature.
While this may not be a new favorite, it is one that I will recommend to middle grade readers in my life!
Read
June 28, 2026A Native Hawaiian kid who can turn into a shark? Yes, please! Malia Maunakea’s The Shark Prince is an action-packed middle-grade novel about Nohea, the heir to a horrible family secret: He is the Shark Prince, half-human and half-shark. Much like The Incredible Hulk, Nohea starts “sharking out” when his negative emotions are churning. The first signs are teeth and gills.
Nohea is homeschooled because if any place was ever designed to trigger negative emotions, it’s middle school. He spends his days surfing and helping with the animals his mother takes in, including Notch, an injured baby seal that Nohea nurses back to health who soon becomes his sidekick.
When a slick real estate developer attempts to buy up the homes in Nohea’s neighborhood, strange things start happening, including the disappearance of local kids. Who is the more likely suspect–a polished real estate developer or a boy who sometimes turns into a shark? The action heats up when Nohea joins a group of young surfers who must win a surfing competition to both expose the fraudulent developer and collect prize money to help their families.
Malia Maunakea artfully embeds in this plot important ideas about friendship, self-awareness, and cultural pride. Maunakea also weaves in Hawaiian history and culture, including the significance of kuleana lands, protected areas whose rights have been maintained across generations since the nineteenth century.
The Shark Prince is a terrific pick for young readers who enjoy fast-paced adventures, humor, surfing, and fantasy grounded in real-world issues. It's an exciting story that celebrates family, community, and Native Hawaiian culture while delivering plenty of shark-powered action.
Nohea is homeschooled because if any place was ever designed to trigger negative emotions, it’s middle school. He spends his days surfing and helping with the animals his mother takes in, including Notch, an injured baby seal that Nohea nurses back to health who soon becomes his sidekick.
When a slick real estate developer attempts to buy up the homes in Nohea’s neighborhood, strange things start happening, including the disappearance of local kids. Who is the more likely suspect–a polished real estate developer or a boy who sometimes turns into a shark? The action heats up when Nohea joins a group of young surfers who must win a surfing competition to both expose the fraudulent developer and collect prize money to help their families.
Malia Maunakea artfully embeds in this plot important ideas about friendship, self-awareness, and cultural pride. Maunakea also weaves in Hawaiian history and culture, including the significance of kuleana lands, protected areas whose rights have been maintained across generations since the nineteenth century.
The Shark Prince is a terrific pick for young readers who enjoy fast-paced adventures, humor, surfing, and fantasy grounded in real-world issues. It's an exciting story that celebrates family, community, and Native Hawaiian culture while delivering plenty of shark-powered action.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Nohea has been homeschooled his whole life, because his father turned into a shark and ate a fellow surfer. No one else knows that was his father, and his mother wants to keep it that way. They don’t know why he suddenly turned into a shark. And Nohea’s mother doesn’t want to have anyone see her son become one, and try to hunt him down.
But, the family is always short of money, and one day Nohea, who is an avid surfer, sees a flyer for a surfing contest, but it is only open to public school students. And thus begins his foray into going to school, just to join the surf team, to win the money so his mother isn’t forced to sell the house and live in Las Vegas.
A very well written story, weaving in Hawaiian legend, as well as Hawaiian common land sharing, that was passed down to local families since the time of the Hawaiian kingdom. Well researched, and fun, the author has brought out a boy scared of his shark heritage, and how he learns to deal with it.
Highly recommend this middle-grade contemporary fantasy. It had me guessing as to how it was going to get to where it was going. Plus we get a monk seal that Nohea befriends, and what more do we need.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review. This book is being published on the 5th of May 2026.
But, the family is always short of money, and one day Nohea, who is an avid surfer, sees a flyer for a surfing contest, but it is only open to public school students. And thus begins his foray into going to school, just to join the surf team, to win the money so his mother isn’t forced to sell the house and live in Las Vegas.
A very well written story, weaving in Hawaiian legend, as well as Hawaiian common land sharing, that was passed down to local families since the time of the Hawaiian kingdom. Well researched, and fun, the author has brought out a boy scared of his shark heritage, and how he learns to deal with it.
Highly recommend this middle-grade contemporary fantasy. It had me guessing as to how it was going to get to where it was going. Plus we get a monk seal that Nohea befriends, and what more do we need.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review. This book is being published on the 5th of May 2026.
May 29, 2026
Thank you PRH Audio for the gifted audiobook.
This new middle grade novel made for a wonderful audiobook! The narrator effectively brought the feel of the character and it was wonderful to hear all the Hawaiian words pronounced well.
The Shark Prince follows a boy living in a small Hawaiian village who is part of a long line of males in his family that are half shark and half human. He has lived an isolated life afraid of the time when his shark tendencies show up and he may end up being like his father before him. But when a surfing competition occurs through the school and his family needs the prize money he decides to take a chance and join the public school for the first time.
This engaging read was a mix of character study, mystery (teammates going missing one by one!), folklore elements, and an exploration of the legacies we inherit and the ways we can honor the good and change the bad of what came before us. I loved all the Hawaiian representation and the way it was a universal story of the school experiences everyone faces while also being an exploration of the place and related complexities.
This would be a great summer reading choice for middle grade readers or young teens!
This new middle grade novel made for a wonderful audiobook! The narrator effectively brought the feel of the character and it was wonderful to hear all the Hawaiian words pronounced well.
The Shark Prince follows a boy living in a small Hawaiian village who is part of a long line of males in his family that are half shark and half human. He has lived an isolated life afraid of the time when his shark tendencies show up and he may end up being like his father before him. But when a surfing competition occurs through the school and his family needs the prize money he decides to take a chance and join the public school for the first time.
This engaging read was a mix of character study, mystery (teammates going missing one by one!), folklore elements, and an exploration of the legacies we inherit and the ways we can honor the good and change the bad of what came before us. I loved all the Hawaiian representation and the way it was a universal story of the school experiences everyone faces while also being an exploration of the place and related complexities.
This would be a great summer reading choice for middle grade readers or young teens!
June 19, 2026
the message of this story is that community solidarity and friendship and family are all vitally important. the other message of this story is, wouldn't it be kinda rad to have shark shapeshifting powers? well, exactly. i agree with both points.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I appreciate Netgalley, the author, and the publisher for providing an E-ARC of the book for review. All views expressed are my own and are based on my personal experience with the book.
My Rating: ★★★★.5 (4.5 stars)
The characters in this captivating narrative are exceptionally well-developed, bringing a sense of realism, humor, and emotional depth that resonates with readers on multiple levels. Each character is dynamic, possessing a unique personality that reflects their individual worries, fears, and hopes. This rich tapestry of personalities allows readers from various backgrounds to find points of connection and relatability throughout the story. Nohea, the protagonist and main male character, exemplifies a remarkable blend of qualities that make him not only relatable but also inspiring. His determination to help his family maintain their home showcases a profound sense of responsibility and loyalty, while his hard work and intelligence shine through in his interactions with others. Nohea's kindness is evident not just in his relationships with his family and friends, but also in his gentle demeanor towards animals, such as his beloved seal friend, Notch. Furthermore, Nohea grapples with his own fears, such as the anxiety of potentially hurting others when he experiences moments of intense emotion—referred to as "sharking out." His journey toward understanding and accepting himself, especially as someone who is half-human and half-shark, adds layers to his character. This internal struggle resonates deeply with readers, as it reflects the universal quest for self-acceptance and the complexities of identity. The side characters enrich the narrative significantly, contributing humor, warmth, intelligence, and emotional depth. They embody a sense of community that fosters a village-like atmosphere, making readers feel as though they are part of this vibrant world. The interactions between Nohea and his teammates provide not only comedic relief but also meaningful insights, as each character brings their own perspective to the challenges they face. The settings are another highlight of the book, with the beaches, schools, and community that Nohea inhabits vividly brought to life through descriptive writing. The Hawaiian landscapes, infused with the culture and spirit of the people, create a backdrop that is both beautiful and integral to the story. Each location serves a purpose, enhancing the narrative while showcasing the unique elements that make Hawaii a breathtaking place. The author’s ability to paint such vivid imagery allows readers to immerse themselves in the environment, almost as if they are experiencing the sights and sounds of the ocean, the warmth of the sun, and the richness of the culture firsthand. The writing style is engaging and well-crafted, with a fluidity that makes the story feel alive. The emotions and actions leap off the page, creating an immersive experience that feels akin to watching a movie unfold. The plot itself is engaging and action-packed, yet it remains grounded in realism. It invites readers to reflect on their own experiences and emotions, often eliciting a sense of nostalgia or introspection. At times, the pacing may dip, causing brief moments of disconnection from the narrative flow, and there are minor plot points that might raise questions about their feasibility within the story's context. However, these moments do not detract significantly from the overall impact of the narrative or the development of the characters. The book is rich with lessons that extend beyond the narrative, offering insights into Hawaiian landscapes, culture, and the importance of community. Themes of trust, friendship, self-acceptance, and kindness resonate throughout the story, highlighting the beauty found not only in the physical world but also in the connections we forge with one another. Two quotes in particular encapsulate the essence of these themes: "I should've known better than to hope I'd ever have a chance at being the main character in my own life" - Nohea, and "But if we don't talk about all of our history, how are we supposed to learn? Wouldn't our ancestors want us to learn from them?" - Nohea. The first quote speaks to a universal sentiment that transcends age; many of us have felt at some point that we are not fully living our lives as we wish, struggling to embrace our roles as the protagonists of our own stories. The second quote emphasizes the critical importance of acknowledging and learning from our histories, regardless of our backgrounds. It serves as a reminder that understanding one another's cultures fosters kindness and empathy, essential qualities in a diverse society. "The Shark Prince" by Malia Maunakea emerges as a beautifully educational and action-packed middle-grade novel. It invites readers to escape into the enchanting world of Hawaiian culture, legends, and the lives of its people. Through Nohea's journey, readers discover that life mirrors the ocean's waves—filled with both challenges and triumphs, and that there is profound beauty to be found in embracing who we are. This book comes highly recommended for those who wish to delve into the rich tapestry of Hawaiian life while being welcomed into a community that encourages authenticity and mutual support. It is a story that not only entertains but also inspires reflection on the essence of identity and belonging.
My Rating: ★★★★.5 (4.5 stars)
The characters in this captivating narrative are exceptionally well-developed, bringing a sense of realism, humor, and emotional depth that resonates with readers on multiple levels. Each character is dynamic, possessing a unique personality that reflects their individual worries, fears, and hopes. This rich tapestry of personalities allows readers from various backgrounds to find points of connection and relatability throughout the story. Nohea, the protagonist and main male character, exemplifies a remarkable blend of qualities that make him not only relatable but also inspiring. His determination to help his family maintain their home showcases a profound sense of responsibility and loyalty, while his hard work and intelligence shine through in his interactions with others. Nohea's kindness is evident not just in his relationships with his family and friends, but also in his gentle demeanor towards animals, such as his beloved seal friend, Notch. Furthermore, Nohea grapples with his own fears, such as the anxiety of potentially hurting others when he experiences moments of intense emotion—referred to as "sharking out." His journey toward understanding and accepting himself, especially as someone who is half-human and half-shark, adds layers to his character. This internal struggle resonates deeply with readers, as it reflects the universal quest for self-acceptance and the complexities of identity. The side characters enrich the narrative significantly, contributing humor, warmth, intelligence, and emotional depth. They embody a sense of community that fosters a village-like atmosphere, making readers feel as though they are part of this vibrant world. The interactions between Nohea and his teammates provide not only comedic relief but also meaningful insights, as each character brings their own perspective to the challenges they face. The settings are another highlight of the book, with the beaches, schools, and community that Nohea inhabits vividly brought to life through descriptive writing. The Hawaiian landscapes, infused with the culture and spirit of the people, create a backdrop that is both beautiful and integral to the story. Each location serves a purpose, enhancing the narrative while showcasing the unique elements that make Hawaii a breathtaking place. The author’s ability to paint such vivid imagery allows readers to immerse themselves in the environment, almost as if they are experiencing the sights and sounds of the ocean, the warmth of the sun, and the richness of the culture firsthand. The writing style is engaging and well-crafted, with a fluidity that makes the story feel alive. The emotions and actions leap off the page, creating an immersive experience that feels akin to watching a movie unfold. The plot itself is engaging and action-packed, yet it remains grounded in realism. It invites readers to reflect on their own experiences and emotions, often eliciting a sense of nostalgia or introspection. At times, the pacing may dip, causing brief moments of disconnection from the narrative flow, and there are minor plot points that might raise questions about their feasibility within the story's context. However, these moments do not detract significantly from the overall impact of the narrative or the development of the characters. The book is rich with lessons that extend beyond the narrative, offering insights into Hawaiian landscapes, culture, and the importance of community. Themes of trust, friendship, self-acceptance, and kindness resonate throughout the story, highlighting the beauty found not only in the physical world but also in the connections we forge with one another. Two quotes in particular encapsulate the essence of these themes: "I should've known better than to hope I'd ever have a chance at being the main character in my own life" - Nohea, and "But if we don't talk about all of our history, how are we supposed to learn? Wouldn't our ancestors want us to learn from them?" - Nohea. The first quote speaks to a universal sentiment that transcends age; many of us have felt at some point that we are not fully living our lives as we wish, struggling to embrace our roles as the protagonists of our own stories. The second quote emphasizes the critical importance of acknowledging and learning from our histories, regardless of our backgrounds. It serves as a reminder that understanding one another's cultures fosters kindness and empathy, essential qualities in a diverse society. "The Shark Prince" by Malia Maunakea emerges as a beautifully educational and action-packed middle-grade novel. It invites readers to escape into the enchanting world of Hawaiian culture, legends, and the lives of its people. Through Nohea's journey, readers discover that life mirrors the ocean's waves—filled with both challenges and triumphs, and that there is profound beauty to be found in embracing who we are. This book comes highly recommended for those who wish to delve into the rich tapestry of Hawaiian life while being welcomed into a community that encourages authenticity and mutual support. It is a story that not only entertains but also inspires reflection on the essence of identity and belonging.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
E ARC Provided by Edelweiss Plus
Nohea Alapa’i lives in a village in a valley on O’ahu, Hawaii. He loves to surf, but he is all too aware of his family history. He is a shark prince, and his father turned into a shark and ate a competitor when he was a teen. He left, and was never seen again. This left his very young mother alone with only her mother to help raise him. Because of this family history, and the fear that one day Nohea will one day turn into a shark, his mother and Tutu (grandmother) homeschool him, feed him a vegetarian diet, and monitor his behavior carefully. Nohea does enjoy surfing, and often “talks” to his missing father when out in the ocean. He knows that finances are tight even though the family works hard, with the mother taking shifts a Mr. T.’s small grocery store and weaving lauhala purses to sell. His mother would like to join family in Las Vegas, and has been meeting with a developer who is trying to get her to sell the family’s home. When Nohea finds that there is going to be a surging competition with a significant cash prize, he wants to enter, but would have to find five other homeschooled children to join his team. Instead, he decides to enroll in the public school system. His mother agrees, and even though things don’t always go smoothly, he joins the surf team, coached by teacher Kami Sanoe. Team member Rell is supportive, but Layden seems to know about Nohea’s family history, and often angers Nohea. When this happens, Nohea can feel his shark shaped birthmark burning on his back, and he starts to exhibit more and more symptoms, like shark teeth, and eventually even a dorsal fin! With the help of an endangered monk otter, Notch, who has befriended him, Nohea has to deal with these changes at the same time team members go missing. They might have been attacked by sharks; is Nohea doing this during his blackouts? Mr. Canterman, the developer, is trying to buy up the entire valley, and might be using evil methods to accomplish this, even relying on the efforts of a surprising community member. Will Nohea be able to come to terms with the shark portion of himself and also save his beloved community? This is apparently the first book in a duology.
Strengths: Remember K.A. Applegate’s 1990s Animorph series? My children were obsessed with them, so that was the first thing I thought about! Nohea’s family has always been upfront with him about his father, but has kept it a secret from the rest of their neighborhood, which seems like a good plan. The homeschooling is perhaps an excessive caution, but going into a public school affords Nohea a good way to break from his family and gain new experiences. There are a lot of good details about surfing, as well as about the natural environment. Development is a growing concern in many areas of the world, so Canterman’s plan to build makes sense, especially when we find out secrets about HIS past. I enjoyed Nohea’s snarky attitude, his relationship with Notch, and the way he is able to realistically handle both being a shark and saving his community.
Weaknesses: At 368 pages, this book is on the longer side of what my students will read. The first 100 pages flew by, but the story did slow down a bit. Tighter editing, and less of Nohea talking to his father, would have made for an even more engaging read.
What I really think: From the perspective of an Ohioan, Hawaii is a fascinating change of pace, and this should be a big hit with fans of Huang’ s Kaya of the Ocean,
Smith’s The Pearl, or Maunakea’s own Lei and the Fire Goddess. The cover is great, with just that tiny bit of shark tooth showing in Nohea’s mouth!
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
Nohea Alapa’i lives in a village in a valley on O’ahu, Hawaii. He loves to surf, but he is all too aware of his family history. He is a shark prince, and his father turned into a shark and ate a competitor when he was a teen. He left, and was never seen again. This left his very young mother alone with only her mother to help raise him. Because of this family history, and the fear that one day Nohea will one day turn into a shark, his mother and Tutu (grandmother) homeschool him, feed him a vegetarian diet, and monitor his behavior carefully. Nohea does enjoy surfing, and often “talks” to his missing father when out in the ocean. He knows that finances are tight even though the family works hard, with the mother taking shifts a Mr. T.’s small grocery store and weaving lauhala purses to sell. His mother would like to join family in Las Vegas, and has been meeting with a developer who is trying to get her to sell the family’s home. When Nohea finds that there is going to be a surging competition with a significant cash prize, he wants to enter, but would have to find five other homeschooled children to join his team. Instead, he decides to enroll in the public school system. His mother agrees, and even though things don’t always go smoothly, he joins the surf team, coached by teacher Kami Sanoe. Team member Rell is supportive, but Layden seems to know about Nohea’s family history, and often angers Nohea. When this happens, Nohea can feel his shark shaped birthmark burning on his back, and he starts to exhibit more and more symptoms, like shark teeth, and eventually even a dorsal fin! With the help of an endangered monk otter, Notch, who has befriended him, Nohea has to deal with these changes at the same time team members go missing. They might have been attacked by sharks; is Nohea doing this during his blackouts? Mr. Canterman, the developer, is trying to buy up the entire valley, and might be using evil methods to accomplish this, even relying on the efforts of a surprising community member. Will Nohea be able to come to terms with the shark portion of himself and also save his beloved community? This is apparently the first book in a duology.
Strengths: Remember K.A. Applegate’s 1990s Animorph series? My children were obsessed with them, so that was the first thing I thought about! Nohea’s family has always been upfront with him about his father, but has kept it a secret from the rest of their neighborhood, which seems like a good plan. The homeschooling is perhaps an excessive caution, but going into a public school affords Nohea a good way to break from his family and gain new experiences. There are a lot of good details about surfing, as well as about the natural environment. Development is a growing concern in many areas of the world, so Canterman’s plan to build makes sense, especially when we find out secrets about HIS past. I enjoyed Nohea’s snarky attitude, his relationship with Notch, and the way he is able to realistically handle both being a shark and saving his community.
Weaknesses: At 368 pages, this book is on the longer side of what my students will read. The first 100 pages flew by, but the story did slow down a bit. Tighter editing, and less of Nohea talking to his father, would have made for an even more engaging read.
What I really think: From the perspective of an Ohioan, Hawaii is a fascinating change of pace, and this should be a big hit with fans of Huang’ s Kaya of the Ocean,
Smith’s The Pearl, or Maunakea’s own Lei and the Fire Goddess. The cover is great, with just that tiny bit of shark tooth showing in Nohea’s mouth!
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
First, I will begin with, this story has a very intriguing plot line. Without giving away any spoilers this story is a modern take to a Hawaiian legend. Nohea is a teenage boy and descendant of the Hawaiian demigod, Nanaue. He has grown up and lived with the constant knowledge and reminder that one day he will turn into a shark and possibly eat someone like his father did. I let the reader read the full description, but the short of it, a series of events leads him to going to public school and his shark-side begins to rear its ugly head, as the same time classmates begin to disappear.
Malia Maunakee does a great job at keeping the mystery and suspense going in the story. Introducing knew layers of complication keeps the story fresh and moving. I do enjoy the descriptions in this book as well, but where they often landed didn't work for me. It wasn't uncommon for descriptions to interrupt and slow down some of the movement in this story. Like I said, the descriptions were good, but I personally think if they were just placed in slightly different places, they would have worked better to move the story along.
This story was written primarily in Nohea's perspective which really worked for keeping the mystery.
I also liked that it had themes of community and loyalty to family - sort of - I have some mixed feeling with how family was portrayed. Ultimately, though there is a value placed on family.
That being said, here are some of the reasons I didn't like it as much.
I'll start with the character of Nohea. He is a believable character, but I got the sense he was pretty flat. He did go through big changes, even some growth in how he went about handling problems, but overall, he always went about trying to get what he wanted the same way. Nohea wasn't allowed to be humble and wrong - wrong in how he handle things yes, but not in his ultimate desire. There was a sense that everyone else around him was wrong and needed to be changed, and he was right and just needed to change others mind by talking a little different.
The story itself lacked depth. There were some really awesome opportunities to dive deeper in truths and realities of this world that were glossed over. Some of Nohea's methods for control weren't bad but they were also contradicting to his overall struggled. The author could have done a lot with letting love and compassion overcome his struggle by teaching Nohea to think less on himself, his plans, and what he wanted and start seeing the struggles and needs of others - even his enemies. As it was, compassion and love came really only after he started getting what he wanted.
There were other minor aspects to this story I personally didn't like but don't need to go into. I think the version I read is still going to go through some editing processes, which would be good. There were a lot of typos and grammar issues through the story that confused some scenes and sentences. By the time this is published hopefully most of those will be caught and fixed.
As it was, because of the lack of depth in this story it isn't one that makes me want to read it again.
Malia Maunakee does a great job at keeping the mystery and suspense going in the story. Introducing knew layers of complication keeps the story fresh and moving. I do enjoy the descriptions in this book as well, but where they often landed didn't work for me. It wasn't uncommon for descriptions to interrupt and slow down some of the movement in this story. Like I said, the descriptions were good, but I personally think if they were just placed in slightly different places, they would have worked better to move the story along.
This story was written primarily in Nohea's perspective which really worked for keeping the mystery.
I also liked that it had themes of community and loyalty to family - sort of - I have some mixed feeling with how family was portrayed. Ultimately, though there is a value placed on family.
That being said, here are some of the reasons I didn't like it as much.
I'll start with the character of Nohea. He is a believable character, but I got the sense he was pretty flat. He did go through big changes, even some growth in how he went about handling problems, but overall, he always went about trying to get what he wanted the same way. Nohea wasn't allowed to be humble and wrong - wrong in how he handle things yes, but not in his ultimate desire. There was a sense that everyone else around him was wrong and needed to be changed, and he was right and just needed to change others mind by talking a little different.
The story itself lacked depth. There were some really awesome opportunities to dive deeper in truths and realities of this world that were glossed over. Some of Nohea's methods for control weren't bad but they were also contradicting to his overall struggled. The author could have done a lot with letting love and compassion overcome his struggle by teaching Nohea to think less on himself, his plans, and what he wanted and start seeing the struggles and needs of others - even his enemies. As it was, compassion and love came really only after he started getting what he wanted.
There were other minor aspects to this story I personally didn't like but don't need to go into. I think the version I read is still going to go through some editing processes, which would be good. There were a lot of typos and grammar issues through the story that confused some scenes and sentences. By the time this is published hopefully most of those will be caught and fixed.
As it was, because of the lack of depth in this story it isn't one that makes me want to read it again.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Mahalo to NetGalley for the ARC, and to Malia Manuakea for such an awesome book. I can't wait for more!
This was a fast-paced, middle-grade novel that I didn't want to end! Nohea has been homeschooled his entire life because his family has a secret, and it's a big one: his dad turned into a shark and ate a competitor when he was a teen. His dad's been AWOL ever since, and his family carries this secret with a lot of shame. This left Nohea's mom as a young, single mother raising Nohea with the help of her mother, who Nohea calls Tutu (grandmother). I had a Tutu as a kid myself (my dad's mom), so I was excited to see that grandparent name pop up again, especially since not a lot of my friends know what it meant.
This book has friendship, bullying, surfing (perfect for summer!), a tight family bond, and kids helping to solve an adult problem. I loved the edge-of-your-seat pace and twists in this book, as well as all the animals that Nohea and his family have, and the Hawaiian lore and legends! My dad and brother surf a lot, and grew up surfing, so I was right at home with some of the terminology and Hawaiian words, but other readers may struggle. In addition to the legends and lore, I appreciate how the author weaved in real-world topics like people buying out land from families that have been there for decades, as well as colonialism/gentrification. The author's note was really nice context to have, and I learned a lot from this book!
I could see many readers enjoying this book, particularly fans of some of the Rick Riordan Presents books (for the Hawaiian lore), surfers, animal lovers, those who like learning about different cultures, those who like fast-paced and quick reads, and I could see reluctant readers connecting with Nohea's character, he's very relatable!
This was a fast-paced, middle-grade novel that I didn't want to end! Nohea has been homeschooled his entire life because his family has a secret, and it's a big one: his dad turned into a shark and ate a competitor when he was a teen. His dad's been AWOL ever since, and his family carries this secret with a lot of shame. This left Nohea's mom as a young, single mother raising Nohea with the help of her mother, who Nohea calls Tutu (grandmother). I had a Tutu as a kid myself (my dad's mom), so I was excited to see that grandparent name pop up again, especially since not a lot of my friends know what it meant.
This book has friendship, bullying, surfing (perfect for summer!), a tight family bond, and kids helping to solve an adult problem. I loved the edge-of-your-seat pace and twists in this book, as well as all the animals that Nohea and his family have, and the Hawaiian lore and legends! My dad and brother surf a lot, and grew up surfing, so I was right at home with some of the terminology and Hawaiian words, but other readers may struggle. In addition to the legends and lore, I appreciate how the author weaved in real-world topics like people buying out land from families that have been there for decades, as well as colonialism/gentrification. The author's note was really nice context to have, and I learned a lot from this book!
I could see many readers enjoying this book, particularly fans of some of the Rick Riordan Presents books (for the Hawaiian lore), surfers, animal lovers, those who like learning about different cultures, those who like fast-paced and quick reads, and I could see reluctant readers connecting with Nohea's character, he's very relatable!
June 2, 2026
A story about friendship, family, and the community that surrounds you, interwoven with Hawaiian folklore and culture, with an underlying message on self-control.
-First of all, I devoured this book in the course of a day (one sitting)! It hit all the sweet spots for me: strong relationships, urban fantasy, a coming-of-age theme, a compelling plot, and sharks (yes, I love sharks!).
-The protagonist, Nohea, is a lovable character. Compassionate, loving towards his mom and grandma who raised him, quick-witted, and just a little bit awkward, readers both male and female will be able to relate to him.
-His curse--that he will eventually turn into a shark and (probably) eat someone--is heavy, but is dealt with in a way that will feel compelling and not overwhelming or overly grotesque to younger readers. Edgy? Certainly. Nightmare fuel? No. In fact, the two main traits of "sharkishness" that Nohea finds himself wrestling with, bloodlustish hunger and animalistic anger, could be seen as metaphors for lustful and violent impulses. And just as Nohea learns to control himself and use his abilities for good, so readers might be able to pick up on the subtle message here.
-What shines about this book is its depiction of everyday life in Hawaii. Characters speak using local dialect and slang and eat local cuisine. Much of the book is dedicated to showing how deep community bonds run and how businessmen seeking to build more resorts can damage the community (though the book does offer some nuance here).
-The plot of this book blends school life with what appears to be a murder mystery, blending the mundane with fantasy in a way that makes this novel hard to put down!
-My main critique of this book is simply that, when Nohea finds that he is able to converse with animals as a shark, the one animal he converses with seems far too intelligent and on top of things to feel entirely realistic. Sure, this IS a book about a boy who shapeshifts into a shark, but everything else feels fairly believable. What I don't believe is that a seal just *knows* what human students and schools are. In addition, despite this cool superpower, Nohea only talks to the seal.
-In addition, when Nohea first transforms into a shark, the few days he spends getting used to shifting back and forth and controlling what he has feared for so long feel a bit glossed over. I would have liked another chapter or two showing his struggle, but that's me.
-I also wished there was a bit more specificity/facts on sharks in here. What kind of shark does Nohea shift into? What are some cool stats? Its a little strange to think that Nohea is so oblivious to something he knew all along that he was related to.
CONTENT CONCERNS FOR CHRISTIANS:
-Violence: There are mentions of people being eaten in the past, and someone is nearly eaten in the book; however, there is no blood or gore aside from a minor injury the main character receives (and a nosebleed the main character gives someone else).
-Sexual content: There's a bit of a love triangle going on here, but it never progresses past characters kinda liking each other. One side character has two mothers, who are mentioned roughly three times in the novel.
-Spiritual content: The main character is a descendant of the Shark King, a figure from Hawaiian mythology who intermarried with a woman and had a son with shark traits. Every male descendant has been a shark prince. It is mentioned that the Shark King is also known as the Shark god, but one character (somewhat dismissively) suggests it could be an alternate translation, and we never really get a deep dive into the mythology; we only get the modern-day practical effects on Nohea. Overall, the story's treatment of Shark King mythology feels much more like cryptid-style folklore than a Hawaiian version of Percy Jackson.
-First of all, I devoured this book in the course of a day (one sitting)! It hit all the sweet spots for me: strong relationships, urban fantasy, a coming-of-age theme, a compelling plot, and sharks (yes, I love sharks!).
-The protagonist, Nohea, is a lovable character. Compassionate, loving towards his mom and grandma who raised him, quick-witted, and just a little bit awkward, readers both male and female will be able to relate to him.
-His curse--that he will eventually turn into a shark and (probably) eat someone--is heavy, but is dealt with in a way that will feel compelling and not overwhelming or overly grotesque to younger readers. Edgy? Certainly. Nightmare fuel? No. In fact, the two main traits of "sharkishness" that Nohea finds himself wrestling with, bloodlustish hunger and animalistic anger, could be seen as metaphors for lustful and violent impulses. And just as Nohea learns to control himself and use his abilities for good, so readers might be able to pick up on the subtle message here.
-What shines about this book is its depiction of everyday life in Hawaii. Characters speak using local dialect and slang and eat local cuisine. Much of the book is dedicated to showing how deep community bonds run and how businessmen seeking to build more resorts can damage the community (though the book does offer some nuance here).
-The plot of this book blends school life with what appears to be a murder mystery, blending the mundane with fantasy in a way that makes this novel hard to put down!
-My main critique of this book is simply that, when Nohea finds that he is able to converse with animals as a shark, the one animal he converses with seems far too intelligent and on top of things to feel entirely realistic. Sure, this IS a book about a boy who shapeshifts into a shark, but everything else feels fairly believable. What I don't believe is that a seal just *knows* what human students and schools are. In addition, despite this cool superpower, Nohea only talks to the seal.
-In addition, when Nohea first transforms into a shark, the few days he spends getting used to shifting back and forth and controlling what he has feared for so long feel a bit glossed over. I would have liked another chapter or two showing his struggle, but that's me.
-I also wished there was a bit more specificity/facts on sharks in here. What kind of shark does Nohea shift into? What are some cool stats? Its a little strange to think that Nohea is so oblivious to something he knew all along that he was related to.
CONTENT CONCERNS FOR CHRISTIANS:
-Violence: There are mentions of people being eaten in the past, and someone is nearly eaten in the book; however, there is no blood or gore aside from a minor injury the main character receives (and a nosebleed the main character gives someone else).
-Sexual content: There's a bit of a love triangle going on here, but it never progresses past characters kinda liking each other. One side character has two mothers, who are mentioned roughly three times in the novel.
-Spiritual content: The main character is a descendant of the Shark King, a figure from Hawaiian mythology who intermarried with a woman and had a son with shark traits. Every male descendant has been a shark prince. It is mentioned that the Shark King is also known as the Shark god, but one character (somewhat dismissively) suggests it could be an alternate translation, and we never really get a deep dive into the mythology; we only get the modern-day practical effects on Nohea. Overall, the story's treatment of Shark King mythology feels much more like cryptid-style folklore than a Hawaiian version of Percy Jackson.
June 11, 2026
Such a fun story!
Nohea is a teenage boy that is descended from the Shark King, a Hawaiian demigod, and can transform into a shark! Due to an incident with his father, his mother keeps him away from society in hope she can stall his shark transformation. That doesn’t last for very long. Nohea’s not only had a sheltered life, but now that life is under threat by greedy corporations that want to buy his family’s land. As if by fate, a surfing competition hosted by a school is happening around the same time and Nohea gets the idea to enroll to that school to join the competition. The grand prize would help secure their land and hopefully avoid moving.
While going to school, Nohea is faced with challenges that can potentially lead to him sharking out. He has to navigate his emotions and work very hard to not become like his dad.
This story was so fun! I enjoyed the writing and characters, especially Notch. It’s nice to see a middle grade like this because it really highlights how kids Nohea’s age think and feel. This truly felt like a scared 13 year-old-boy that only wants to save the world he knows. Making new friends and trying school for the first time. Navigating the emotions that come with that, Nohea is a great character to read from. A story I would gladly show my niece and nephew.
Nohea is a teenage boy that is descended from the Shark King, a Hawaiian demigod, and can transform into a shark! Due to an incident with his father, his mother keeps him away from society in hope she can stall his shark transformation. That doesn’t last for very long. Nohea’s not only had a sheltered life, but now that life is under threat by greedy corporations that want to buy his family’s land. As if by fate, a surfing competition hosted by a school is happening around the same time and Nohea gets the idea to enroll to that school to join the competition. The grand prize would help secure their land and hopefully avoid moving.
While going to school, Nohea is faced with challenges that can potentially lead to him sharking out. He has to navigate his emotions and work very hard to not become like his dad.
This story was so fun! I enjoyed the writing and characters, especially Notch. It’s nice to see a middle grade like this because it really highlights how kids Nohea’s age think and feel. This truly felt like a scared 13 year-old-boy that only wants to save the world he knows. Making new friends and trying school for the first time. Navigating the emotions that come with that, Nohea is a great character to read from. A story I would gladly show my niece and nephew.
May 14, 2026
I liked the second half, which features the kids working together for a common goal, but I really did not like the first half and wanted to DNF.
I'm not sure what it is about Malia Maunakea's writing that doesn't work for me, but I think it has to do with the characters. In this case, the mom was an issue. She knowingly chose to have a shark child then did everything in her power to make sure he would lead an incredibly isolating, lonely life then gets mad when he wants to be normal. He literally just wants to go to school and maybe have a friend. She doesn't seem to care at all about what Nohea wants or about her culture or ancestry. She gets flirty with one of the guys who is trying to develop her ancestral home into a resort. I get that she was a stupid kid who made an adult decision, but it seemed like she was never able to grow up enough to deal with her choices and instead punishes her son for them. And for some reason the grandma just goes along with it.
Notch was great. I liked how nice and welcoming the teacher was and how easily a couple of the kids took to Nohea.
I don't know how long this is physically, but it felt pretty long.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a digital review copy.
I'm not sure what it is about Malia Maunakea's writing that doesn't work for me, but I think it has to do with the characters. In this case, the mom was an issue. She knowingly chose to have a shark child then did everything in her power to make sure he would lead an incredibly isolating, lonely life then gets mad when he wants to be normal. He literally just wants to go to school and maybe have a friend. She doesn't seem to care at all about what Nohea wants or about her culture or ancestry. She gets flirty with one of the guys who is trying to develop her ancestral home into a resort. I get that she was a stupid kid who made an adult decision, but it seemed like she was never able to grow up enough to deal with her choices and instead punishes her son for them. And for some reason the grandma just goes along with it.
Notch was great. I liked how nice and welcoming the teacher was and how easily a couple of the kids took to Nohea.
I don't know how long this is physically, but it felt pretty long.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a digital review copy.
May 8, 2026
What if your biggest dream could also prove you’re the monster everyone fears? 🦈🌊
Wow, The Shark Prince by Malia Maunakea surprised me!
Nohea’s story hits that perfect mix of heartfelt and suspenseful. On one hand, you’ve got this kid just trying to live, go to school, make friends, and belong. On the other hand, he’s carrying this terrifying legacy that could cost him everything. That emotional push and pull kept me completely hooked.
I loved how the story blends Hawaiian culture, family bonds, and coming-of-age struggles with a darker, almost eerie mystery. The surfing competition adds this hopeful, determined energy, while the disappearances crank up the tension. I genuinely kept questioning what was really happening and whether Nohea could trust himself.
Honesty moment: it leans younger in tone at times, but the themes? They hit deeper than you’d expect identity, fear, and what it means to choose who you want to be.
💭 Overall, it’s a unique, emotional read with just enough danger to keep you turning pages and rooting hard for Nohea.
✨️Thank you, Storygram Tours, Storygram Kids, Penguin, and Malia Maunakea, for sharing The Shark Prince with me!
Wow, The Shark Prince by Malia Maunakea surprised me!
Nohea’s story hits that perfect mix of heartfelt and suspenseful. On one hand, you’ve got this kid just trying to live, go to school, make friends, and belong. On the other hand, he’s carrying this terrifying legacy that could cost him everything. That emotional push and pull kept me completely hooked.
I loved how the story blends Hawaiian culture, family bonds, and coming-of-age struggles with a darker, almost eerie mystery. The surfing competition adds this hopeful, determined energy, while the disappearances crank up the tension. I genuinely kept questioning what was really happening and whether Nohea could trust himself.
Honesty moment: it leans younger in tone at times, but the themes? They hit deeper than you’d expect identity, fear, and what it means to choose who you want to be.
💭 Overall, it’s a unique, emotional read with just enough danger to keep you turning pages and rooting hard for Nohea.
✨️Thank you, Storygram Tours, Storygram Kids, Penguin, and Malia Maunakea, for sharing The Shark Prince with me!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Language: PG (1 swear, 0 “f”); Mature Content: PG; Violence: PG
Nohea (13yo) has been homeschooled and kept away from everyone outside of his mom and tutu in order to protect them—because Nohea is half-shark, the Shark Prince. When Nohea tries to sign up for a surfing contest with prize money that will keep his family from moving away from Hawaii, he finds out that homeschoolers are ineligible. For the first time, Nohea is getting the chance to be normal and go to school—as long as his shark stays quiet.
The aspects of Nohea’s story that come from Hawaiian culture and mythology were very interesting to read and learn about. But the heart of the book is Nohea learning about friendship and community through taking chances that his mother never did—discovering that it’s hard to get help if you never ask and that asking for help can open doors you never knew were there.
Nohea and the majority of characters are Hawaiian. The mature content rating is for mentions of drugs. The violence rating is for assault, blood, and mentions of murder.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
Nohea (13yo) has been homeschooled and kept away from everyone outside of his mom and tutu in order to protect them—because Nohea is half-shark, the Shark Prince. When Nohea tries to sign up for a surfing contest with prize money that will keep his family from moving away from Hawaii, he finds out that homeschoolers are ineligible. For the first time, Nohea is getting the chance to be normal and go to school—as long as his shark stays quiet.
The aspects of Nohea’s story that come from Hawaiian culture and mythology were very interesting to read and learn about. But the heart of the book is Nohea learning about friendship and community through taking chances that his mother never did—discovering that it’s hard to get help if you never ask and that asking for help can open doors you never knew were there.
Nohea and the majority of characters are Hawaiian. The mature content rating is for mentions of drugs. The violence rating is for assault, blood, and mentions of murder.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Sharks bad, People good.
In this fantastical novel geared towards a middle school audience, this book changes the narrative on those wily sea creatures armed with serrated teeth and distinctive dorsal fin.
Homeschooled Nohea resides in a matriarchal household. His mother and grandmother's influence is heavily present. The latter is his teacher and also the source of their household income. His grandmother provides the much needed balance between son and mother when their goals diverge, from residing in Hawaii to their dreams.
Author's setting of Hawaii is shown not just thru the lush physical environment. It's in the phrases Nohea exchanges with his classmates, the competition they engage in (surfing) and the local cuisine. This read was chock full of characters, often difficult to keep straight. However, the larger lesson imparted as to community and ancestral land was done well.
#TheSharkPrince #NetGalley
Thank you Penguin Young Readers Group | Penguin Workshop for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
In this fantastical novel geared towards a middle school audience, this book changes the narrative on those wily sea creatures armed with serrated teeth and distinctive dorsal fin.
Homeschooled Nohea resides in a matriarchal household. His mother and grandmother's influence is heavily present. The latter is his teacher and also the source of their household income. His grandmother provides the much needed balance between son and mother when their goals diverge, from residing in Hawaii to their dreams.
Author's setting of Hawaii is shown not just thru the lush physical environment. It's in the phrases Nohea exchanges with his classmates, the competition they engage in (surfing) and the local cuisine. This read was chock full of characters, often difficult to keep straight. However, the larger lesson imparted as to community and ancestral land was done well.
#TheSharkPrince #NetGalley
Thank you Penguin Young Readers Group | Penguin Workshop for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
July 5, 2026
I would definitely recommend this to a middle-grade audience that enjoys myths mixed with modern-day society. Nahea's journey to understand his emotions and cope with his anxiety and anger, though approached through his fear of his shark side, still felt grounded. The themes of the importance of community and learning from history were well incorporated throughout the book. There was a large cast of colorful side characters that gave Nahea's home a true sense of being a multi-generational community. Also, unlike in much contemporary fantasy, the mythological elements were not a hidden side of the world. Nahea always had people who knew his family legacy and supported him, and letting more of his community in on his family history and what he'd discovered only strengthened them all.
The book also did a great job of bringing in elements of Hawaiian culture and history in a way that wouldn't be confusing for a middle-grade reader who isn't already familiar with them. I especially appreciated that it seamlessly brought in the ongoing issue of Hawaiian land rights.
The book also did a great job of bringing in elements of Hawaiian culture and history in a way that wouldn't be confusing for a middle-grade reader who isn't already familiar with them. I especially appreciated that it seamlessly brought in the ongoing issue of Hawaiian land rights.
May 30, 2026
The Shark Prince was impossible to put down. Every chapter left me wanting more, and the story kept pulling me forward. Maunakea has a talent for creating characters who feel real, and you quickly find yourself invested in their struggles and growth. As with all of Maunakea's books, the voice is wonderful. She tackles big feelings with honesty and humor, weaving them naturally into an adventure that feels both exciting and meaningful. The emotional moments landed because they felt true to the characters and their experiences, and the mystery keeps you on your toes. Nohea's heart really makes this story shine. His vulnerability and emotions are displayed so openly on the page, which is important for young readers to see reflected in adventure stories. That courage and strength can exist alongside fear, sadness, uncertainty, and the need for connection is a great lesson for all of us.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I love this book and think it's great! The Lei series are good, but this is so much better on all the levels: emotional, mythological, historical, and current struggles. I would absolutely use this as a class novel. I'm interested in the history and present day realities of kuleana lands and I love that it's incorporated. I also love mythology and love this take of: What if the shark god had current living ancestors? The homeschooler's struggle to fit on at high school and the "rescue all critters" elements also feel great. Really enjoyed this book. It does not work on all levels: Layden's dad's motivation doesn't hold up, but the rest of it is great. Yeah, why is Canterman so interested in the surf contest continuing to take place?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2026
Maybe Nohea appears to be a typical middle school guy. Struggling to grow up without a dad, slow to make friends, drowning in the over-parenting of his mom and grandma, wanting to show he can help the family by succeeding in sports, has always wanted a pet, and dreads school.
But also... puberty for him means turning into a shark. Literally.
"'Was it worth it?' I yell out to the waves."
I think my students would totally get this one. And their parents had Animorphs, so this book might be a common ground thing.
Also, Nohea is a synesthete, which is very cool and unique - a perfect tie to his shark abilities. (His mom's smile smells like fresh cut grass.) 🥰
Most of all, it's got a powerful environmental message - for Hawaii and for the planet. Oh, and learn some shark facts too.
But also... puberty for him means turning into a shark. Literally.
"'Was it worth it?' I yell out to the waves."
I think my students would totally get this one. And their parents had Animorphs, so this book might be a common ground thing.
Also, Nohea is a synesthete, which is very cool and unique - a perfect tie to his shark abilities. (His mom's smile smells like fresh cut grass.) 🥰
Most of all, it's got a powerful environmental message - for Hawaii and for the planet. Oh, and learn some shark facts too.
June 15, 2026
Very middle grade, but I had a good time. The audiobook narrator sounds like a teen from Hawaii. I think he may actually be from Hawaii. There is a lot of explanation on the front end, and I was worried the home schooler-to-public schooler transition would be handled in a way that was inaccurate, and while he has a lot of social anxiety when he starts, he very intelligent. Showing how his mom's home schooling was no less on an education than public school. Overall, I would like to see this book become a series. It reminded me some of Emily Windshap, but with a Hawaiian twist that can appeal to anyone, but especially young male readers.
June 28, 2026
Oh my goodness, this was such a great book!
The voice is spot on, and the writing pulled off an incredibly immersive experience. You really gotta feel for this little community, right down to the grocery store.
And I really loved all of the characters, like they all felt like a really fun group of kids.
But oh my gosh, for a book that is about a teenage boy who can turn into a shark and who needs to win a surfing contest, this was a really, really really great read about the way in which unmanaged emotions damage lives and communities. Even the villain gets a really understandable and compassionate moment.
Some really great stuff!
The voice is spot on, and the writing pulled off an incredibly immersive experience. You really gotta feel for this little community, right down to the grocery store.
And I really loved all of the characters, like they all felt like a really fun group of kids.
But oh my gosh, for a book that is about a teenage boy who can turn into a shark and who needs to win a surfing contest, this was a really, really really great read about the way in which unmanaged emotions damage lives and communities. Even the villain gets a really understandable and compassionate moment.
Some really great stuff!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fast-paced, high-stakes, and unique! Middle grade readers will find familiar topics here like friendship, family, and stopping a greedy developer, but what really stands out is Nohea turning into a shark! His journey of self-discovery is compelling with incredibly high stakes both internally and externally as he processes who he is, who others think he is, and who he wants to be. The descriptions of Hawaii and of surfing are very well done. I felt like I was bobbing on the waves with him. The cover is intriguing as well! I'd place this on the higher end of middle grade, ages 10-14.
May 6, 2026
Nohea is a pretty typical kid. He loves surfing, animals, and his family. There’s just one small difference, he’s part shark. Because of that, he’s always kept his distance from other people, worried they might discover his secret. But when he spots a flyer for a surf competition with a cash prize, he decides to take a risk, leave homeschooling, enroll in a local school, and join the surf team. Blending mystery and fantasy, this is a fun, engaging story that I think middle schoolers will really enjoy. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this advanced reader’s copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for letting me review this book. I love myths from around the world and this was right up my alley. I like how Nohea tries to stay true to himself and forms some great friendships. Sometimes we don’t realize what we have until we almost lose it. I enjoyed reading a bit about Hawaiian history at the back. I do wish there’d be a glossary of the various Hawaiian words used throughout the book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
*I received an ARC from NetGalley* I always enjoy a good middle grade book about an outsider kiddo finding their way into an unlikely group of friends and forming their family and community. This book takes it a step farther weaving in Hawaiian legend and aspects of colonialism/gentrification. The themes are as deep as the waters they swim in. Also… did I mention that Nohea is a Disney prince as well as a Shark Prince? 🦭
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Really interesting story that illustrates the beauty of Hawai'i and the struggle people have against developers. Nohea has a unique thing about him that makes him reticent to relying on anyone or getting close to anyone, but like any middle school kid, he learns.
I loved how beautiful the descriptions are of the island. It makes me miss Hawai'i so much!
Thank you to Penguin Workshop for the opportunity to read and review.
I loved how beautiful the descriptions are of the island. It makes me miss Hawai'i so much!
Thank you to Penguin Workshop for the opportunity to read and review.
May 18, 2026
Such a fantastic book! I loved the mystery and the character introspection and the sense of community. I loved the land back discussion of indigenous land rights it is an important conversation but it never came across as preachy. And I loved Notch! Who wouldn’t love a seal sidekick! The little bit of magic was well done but didn’t overwhelm the story. Loved the mythology. Overall a great read!
May 23, 2026
Another great book by Malia Maunakea. The Shark Prince brings Hawaiian legend to life, depicting a coming-of-age struggle that takes us out of ordinary life into a world of new adventures—even as it brings us deeper into ourselves and the fears, hopes, dreams, and love that are common to us all. Triumphant.
May 29, 2026
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC.
I thought this was a fun read. I loved the main character and the world building as well. I really loved getting to know the main character and his family and friends. Thr author also discusses some important issues as well. The writing is engaging. I really enjoyed this one.
I thought this was a fun read. I loved the main character and the world building as well. I really loved getting to know the main character and his family and friends. Thr author also discusses some important issues as well. The writing is engaging. I really enjoyed this one.
June 15, 2026
Another winner from the queen of middle grade Hawaiian fantasy! The Shark Prince takes a deep dive into a modern world where one of Nanaue’s (the Shark King from Hawaiian mythology) ancestors is a 13yo boy named Nohea. With tight plotting, immersive details, and believable characters, this book is totally worth sinking your teeth into!
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