Whina: A biography of Whina Cooper

by Michael King

Genres: Biography

285 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1983

About the author

Michael King was one of New Zealand's leading historians and biographers. In 2006 he was named one of 100 most important New Zealanders that have ever lived. He published more than 34 books in his lifetime. His last, The Penguin History of New Zealand, has sold more than 200,000 copies and is widely considered to be the definitive history of New Zealand. His work in literary biography - most notably Wrestling With the Angel, on the life of Janet Frame - also received great critical acclaim. He made many level-headed contributions to race-relations debates and is sorely missed by his country.

Reviews

[Megan Clemance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good.

[David Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

A complex book on a fascinating and inspiring leader. While not the easiest book to read, Michael King has done a fair job of representing Whina's contributions to New Zealand development over the last 100 years, and fighting for Maori right and welfare particularly.

However, it is largely from her own perspective, which King openly admits, and it could have benefited from more balance. That said, adopting Whina for our chosen leader biography in our MBA programme was a great choice, because it reflects so much that changed through the 20th century.

[Giorgioneruth Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good read, it seemed more complicated than Te Puea's bio. Still left me in an empowered head space. Makes me want to know more

[Jessicars · Rating 3 out of 5]

interesting insight to early Maori life in New Zealand, Whina was one power house of a woman.