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The Porangi Boy
Twelve-year-old Niko lives in Pohe Bay, a small, rural town with a sacred hot spring – and a taniwha named Taukere. The government wants to build a prison over the home of the taniwha, and Niko’s grandfather is busy protesting. People call him pōrangi, crazy, but when he dies, it’s up to Niko to convince his community that the taniwha is real and stop the prison from being built. With help from his friend Wai, Niko must unite his whānau, honour his grandfather and stand up to his childhood bully.
177 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 23, 2020
21 people are currently reading
331 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
March 6, 2021
This was nothing at all as I expected. I'm so encouraged by books featuring realistic NZ communities, which deal with issues that are local and which are written by new, young writers. We need so many more of these. There has been a trend for writers who are older to write stories of their youth, to have this new fresh book, set now is great. Having said that I didn't fall in love with this story. I'd have loved there to be tighter editing.
I'd love to know what the intended audience think of this. The cover would automatically appeal to the young men I have worked with for many years, but I think they might have struggled with the slightly meandering narrative. There was a lot to love though, family relationships, the value of storytelling in families, the superstitions. There are some fantastic scenes, I so feared for the child in the water. I loved the relationship between Nico and his Koro. It covers a lot of issues, and shows a young boy who is standing up and putting a stake in the ground for his beliefs and that is a very good thing. This book contains so many issues that young Maori children will relate to. Please can we have a heap more of these books so that our kids can see themselves in what they are reading.
I'm a bit sad that I didn't absolutely love it, even so, I'd recommend that all school libraries in New Zealand buy it for their kids. It is pitched at middle grade/intermediate age and junior secondary readers, but I'd also be thrusting it at a lot of reluctant readers in high school doing Level 1 and 2 as well.
I'd love to know what the intended audience think of this. The cover would automatically appeal to the young men I have worked with for many years, but I think they might have struggled with the slightly meandering narrative. There was a lot to love though, family relationships, the value of storytelling in families, the superstitions. There are some fantastic scenes, I so feared for the child in the water. I loved the relationship between Nico and his Koro. It covers a lot of issues, and shows a young boy who is standing up and putting a stake in the ground for his beliefs and that is a very good thing. This book contains so many issues that young Maori children will relate to. Please can we have a heap more of these books so that our kids can see themselves in what they are reading.
I'm a bit sad that I didn't absolutely love it, even so, I'd recommend that all school libraries in New Zealand buy it for their kids. It is pitched at middle grade/intermediate age and junior secondary readers, but I'd also be thrusting it at a lot of reluctant readers in high school doing Level 1 and 2 as well.
July 15, 2022
Took me a minute to get into the rhythm because it was so much like being in northland as a child and it was a bit jarring to recognise so much of it (not in a bad way!)
Pretty much heart wrenching, an excellent and visceral story told mostly in dialogue. Heck yeah vernacular! The ideas around stewardship of the land are absolutely still relevant today.
Pretty much heart wrenching, an excellent and visceral story told mostly in dialogue. Heck yeah vernacular! The ideas around stewardship of the land are absolutely still relevant today.
March 16, 2021
Wow. Reeeeeally good writing. The dialogue, especially, was so perfectly Māori-English that I could hear the accents vividly.
NZ needs more books like this. And this book needs to be in all our kids' schools.
NZ needs more books like this. And this book needs to be in all our kids' schools.
November 18, 2024
Great Aotearoa fiction with a strong community spirit, highly relateable characters and issues, plus the te reo Māori woven throughout the story is a real treat.
We need more books like this that our students can identify themselves in.
We need more books like this that our students can identify themselves in.
April 10, 2021
A great book! Wonderful language use, relatable characters, and a story that is so close to home.
I can see this being very motivational read for some of our youth!
I can see this being very motivational read for some of our youth!
November 16, 2020
Like his Koro, many in his small town think Niko is pōrangi (crazy). Tū, Kaore and Hone call him pōrangi boy and bully him relentlessly. Niko loves his Koro and he seems to be the only one who doesn’t think his Koro is pōrangi. Niko’s Koro teaches him how to wield a taiaha to defend rather than attack, and he teaches him about Taukere, the taniwha that protects their town. There are plans for a new prison to be built in Pohe Bay and while many in the town are against the idea it is only Niko’s Koro who is prepared to do what he can to stop it happening. The prison would be built over sacred land, destroying Taukere’s home. When Koro dies the family gathers for the tangi and when Koro’s will is read out many of the family are unhappy. Niko decides that he must carry on his Koro’s legacy and fight for what he believes is right.
The Pōrangi Boy is an incredible story that I devoured in one sitting! The story reminded me of Taika Waititi’s best films (Boy and Hunt for the Wilderpeople) because Shilo gives you a snapshot of life in Aotearoa, with the gritty reality but also some humour and great characters that you route for. From the first lines Niko’s voice is so clear and you get so completely caught up in his life that you have to keep reading until the end. As a Pākēha I found Niko’s story eye-opening and confronting at times, from Niko’s home life to the horrible bullying that he’s subjected to. The racism that Niko and his Koro experience is pretty shocking too. Niko’s teacher, Mrs Wobberly, is blatantly racist, calling the kids she teaches Mowrees and calling Niko the Mowree Shakespeare. Nico and Koro experience racism when they go to buy Niko a bike and the shop owner calls Niko a ‘dirty little Mowree.’
There is much speculation about the taniwha of the story, Taukere. The reason that Niko’s Koro is against the prison is because he has met Taukere and knows that he protects the town. Niko isn’t so certain that Taukere exists but when he and his cousin Moki end up in the river they encounter something with red eyes that saves them from drowning.
This is a story about community and relationships. Niko’s mother has a drug addiction, so she is often passed out on the sofa, and Niko’s dad isn’t around, so Niko often has to fend for himself. He has a good relationship with his aunties, who look after him, and his Koro. I really loved Niko and Koro’s relationship as they both took care of each other. Niko sometimes doesn’t understand what his Koro is telling him but he always makes him his cup of tea just how he likes it. They may both be called pōrangi but they make it clear that they’re anything but. Niko’s community is divided about having the prison in their town but the wider community come together to support the protest, including family that Niko never knew he had.
Language is such an important part of this story, from the te reo Māori that is woven in to the story to the way that the characters talk. Most of the characters are Māori so te reo Māori is spoken throughout the story, and this was an aspect of the story that I really loved. Some words and their meanings were unfamiliar to me at the start of the story but the more they were used the more familiar they became. The character’s voices sound authentic, with slang like hungus (hungry) and angus (angry) being part of the conversation. There are also some swear words used in a couple of instances but these fit with the situation (although don’t make the story ideal as a read aloud).
The Pōrangi Boy is one of the best Aotearoa children’s books of the year. This should absolutely be on the shortlist for the 2021 New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults and I wouldn’t be surprised to see it win. Niko is 12 in the story but I think it is probably more suited to young adults (or mature Year 7/8 readers). I can’t recommend The Pōrangi Boy highly enough.
The Pōrangi Boy is an incredible story that I devoured in one sitting! The story reminded me of Taika Waititi’s best films (Boy and Hunt for the Wilderpeople) because Shilo gives you a snapshot of life in Aotearoa, with the gritty reality but also some humour and great characters that you route for. From the first lines Niko’s voice is so clear and you get so completely caught up in his life that you have to keep reading until the end. As a Pākēha I found Niko’s story eye-opening and confronting at times, from Niko’s home life to the horrible bullying that he’s subjected to. The racism that Niko and his Koro experience is pretty shocking too. Niko’s teacher, Mrs Wobberly, is blatantly racist, calling the kids she teaches Mowrees and calling Niko the Mowree Shakespeare. Nico and Koro experience racism when they go to buy Niko a bike and the shop owner calls Niko a ‘dirty little Mowree.’
There is much speculation about the taniwha of the story, Taukere. The reason that Niko’s Koro is against the prison is because he has met Taukere and knows that he protects the town. Niko isn’t so certain that Taukere exists but when he and his cousin Moki end up in the river they encounter something with red eyes that saves them from drowning.
This is a story about community and relationships. Niko’s mother has a drug addiction, so she is often passed out on the sofa, and Niko’s dad isn’t around, so Niko often has to fend for himself. He has a good relationship with his aunties, who look after him, and his Koro. I really loved Niko and Koro’s relationship as they both took care of each other. Niko sometimes doesn’t understand what his Koro is telling him but he always makes him his cup of tea just how he likes it. They may both be called pōrangi but they make it clear that they’re anything but. Niko’s community is divided about having the prison in their town but the wider community come together to support the protest, including family that Niko never knew he had.
Language is such an important part of this story, from the te reo Māori that is woven in to the story to the way that the characters talk. Most of the characters are Māori so te reo Māori is spoken throughout the story, and this was an aspect of the story that I really loved. Some words and their meanings were unfamiliar to me at the start of the story but the more they were used the more familiar they became. The character’s voices sound authentic, with slang like hungus (hungry) and angus (angry) being part of the conversation. There are also some swear words used in a couple of instances but these fit with the situation (although don’t make the story ideal as a read aloud).
The Pōrangi Boy is one of the best Aotearoa children’s books of the year. This should absolutely be on the shortlist for the 2021 New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults and I wouldn’t be surprised to see it win. Niko is 12 in the story but I think it is probably more suited to young adults (or mature Year 7/8 readers). I can’t recommend The Pōrangi Boy highly enough.
December 18, 2020
Niko and his Koro are known as Porangi (crazy) in their small East Coast town. Niko is bullied at school by members of his own whanau and he feels isolated and alone at home, with a mother who is clearly battling troubles of her own.
Only his Koro seems to understand him, and believe him.
When a new prison is proposed to be built on the local land, promising jobs and prosperity, Niko stands up against it as it will be destroy the home of the local taniwha.
Niko has to decide whether to stand up for what he believes in or go with the flow...
This is a fabulous read - told in local vernacular and interspersed with te reo. It is well written and the characters and situation feel real.
Only his Koro seems to understand him, and believe him.
When a new prison is proposed to be built on the local land, promising jobs and prosperity, Niko stands up against it as it will be destroy the home of the local taniwha.
Niko has to decide whether to stand up for what he believes in or go with the flow...
This is a fabulous read - told in local vernacular and interspersed with te reo. It is well written and the characters and situation feel real.
March 4, 2021
Fantastic, bought this after hearing all the rave reviews from my fellow librarians and completely agree with all of them. It will take something extra special to prevent this winning NZ Children’s Book Awards. Fairly gritty for younger people, suitable for 7/8 students plus, bullying is emotional and physical and home life difficult. I love the special relationship between he and his Koro. Brilliant NZ fiction.
June 20, 2025
One of my library kids has been nagging me to read this book for weeks, and having recently read All That We Know and enjoyed it, I bumped it up my TBR pile and got stuck in. I wasn't disappointed, this book hooked me in within a chapter or two and was a real page turner. Niko is 12 years old and is bullied at school for being "pōrangi" or crazy like his koro. Niko loves and admires his koro and is one of the few people who recognise his wisdom. His koro is protesting the prison that is about to be built on their land and teaches Niko why the land is important to their people. When koro passes away and leaves a considerable fortune to Niko, as well as the legacy of protecting the land and the taniwha who lives in their local river, he has a fight on his hands to convince both his own people and the law that the prison should not go ahead. Niko is a gorgeous character, and there are several others one can't help but fall in love with in this book. Regardless your age, this is an enjoyable book to read.
September 14, 2022
Twelve year old Niko and his Koro Tangaroa are called Pōrangi/crazy by everyone in the small community of Pohe Bay. Pōrangi because Koro does whatever it takes to save his whenua.
So when news of a prison is to be built on the whenua and threatens the awa where a taniwha lives. Koro is fired up. But when tragedy strikes Niko must take up the cause. Inspired by his studies around Bastion Point and Nga Tamatoa and with the help of his friends and whānau the Pōrangi Boy takes charge.
I throughly enjoyed this book, the characters are relatable taking me back to school holidays with my cousins, aunties and friends. The laughter, good, bad, fun and carefree times so quintessentially small town New Zealand. Statements like
'Kutu infested hair' 'kutu girl' or my favourite
'See moko, this wouldn't happen if Buck had been playing, Bring Back Buck'
A great read for all ages.
So when news of a prison is to be built on the whenua and threatens the awa where a taniwha lives. Koro is fired up. But when tragedy strikes Niko must take up the cause. Inspired by his studies around Bastion Point and Nga Tamatoa and with the help of his friends and whānau the Pōrangi Boy takes charge.
I throughly enjoyed this book, the characters are relatable taking me back to school holidays with my cousins, aunties and friends. The laughter, good, bad, fun and carefree times so quintessentially small town New Zealand. Statements like
'Kutu infested hair' 'kutu girl' or my favourite
'See moko, this wouldn't happen if Buck had been playing, Bring Back Buck'
A great read for all ages.
April 25, 2021
Another book I read for class and greatly enjoyed. Here's the review I wrote for class:
Nikora Te Kainga-mataa, known as Niko, is the grandson of an infamous elder and protestor in his community. Niko’s grandfather’s activism inspires him to learn about and fight for their Maori community’s rights to their land and sovereignty, even when the rest of their community, and even their own family, calls him pōrangi, meaning crazy. The community sees Niko going down the same punishing road of activism and calls Niko “pōrangi boy,” which he struggles against every day. The forces of familial love, thirst for justice, and bonds of friendship drive the story forward. Niko dives into the folktales passed down through his family about the land and their heritage and learns how his own beliefs and life ties into the story of the land itself. Kino peppers the text with phrases in Te Reo and has conversational dialogue written out how the New Zealand accent would make them sound. This writing style submerges the reader into the world of this Maori community, or “Mowree,” as the pakeha folks in the story pronounce it. Readers will be immersed in one story of the battle for rights, power, and culture that has gone on for hundreds of years in Aotearoa by seeing how Niko and his grandfather’s stories are inextricably bound to the land.
Nikora Te Kainga-mataa, known as Niko, is the grandson of an infamous elder and protestor in his community. Niko’s grandfather’s activism inspires him to learn about and fight for their Maori community’s rights to their land and sovereignty, even when the rest of their community, and even their own family, calls him pōrangi, meaning crazy. The community sees Niko going down the same punishing road of activism and calls Niko “pōrangi boy,” which he struggles against every day. The forces of familial love, thirst for justice, and bonds of friendship drive the story forward. Niko dives into the folktales passed down through his family about the land and their heritage and learns how his own beliefs and life ties into the story of the land itself. Kino peppers the text with phrases in Te Reo and has conversational dialogue written out how the New Zealand accent would make them sound. This writing style submerges the reader into the world of this Maori community, or “Mowree,” as the pakeha folks in the story pronounce it. Readers will be immersed in one story of the battle for rights, power, and culture that has gone on for hundreds of years in Aotearoa by seeing how Niko and his grandfather’s stories are inextricably bound to the land.
January 14, 2022
Niko Te Kainga-mataa, uri of Hongi Hika, a Ngā Puhi chief, takes up the challenge to protect the natural habitat of Taukere, the local and sacred taniwha, against those who would build a prison. People willing to stand up against the wrong are usually vilified, bullied, made fun of. They are called crazy, weirdos, strange. Society is uncomfortable with individuals and small groups standing up against those in power – especially against those who use their power for selfish gains.
This is true for Niko’s grandfather (Koro) as it is for Niko himself – bullied at school (lead by his cousin) and neglected by his parents (his dad is not on the scene and his mother isn’t really either – the suggestion that her ‘sickness’ is drugs or alcohol fueled).
The writing is a delight to read. Here’s an example of an early interaction between Niko and friend Wai.
‘Is that your mum?’ Wai’s holding an old back-and-what photo in her hands.
‘Yeah.’
‘Your mum was pretty as! Not saying she isn’t now… she just looks old, aye. How come she never comes out of the house? Haven’t seen Aunty in forever.’
‘Why don’t you ask her?’
‘Woah, angus. Sorry I asked.’
‘Well, how come your dad’s locked up?’
Her eyes stay on the photos. ‘The effects of colonization.’
‘Aye? Do you even know what that means?’
‘Nah.’ We both crack up.
‘That’s what my dad says. That the Pākehā colonized us, and now our people are all locked up. Anyway, he’s coming out next year! He’s got a flash job already with my uncle driving trucks, cool aye? Do you know your dad?’
‘Nah.’
‘Did he do a runner?’
‘Ask my mum.’
‘Is he a Pākehā?’
‘I dunno.’
‘Don’t you wanna know who your dad is?’
‘My koro was my dad.’
Words are not wasted and the sharp eye of observation is evident with each carefully chosen sentence. Through this matter-of-fact conversation, the reader is able to learn and understand the details of Niko’s world - all its struggles and challenges – but it communicates without being maudlin or preachy. The lives are what they are and, even though we might giggle alongside them as we eavesdrop on their conversation, we are moved by the stark truth of their circumstances.
There are many things I appreciated about this book: the fluidity of the writing, the authenticity of the dialogue (and how familiar the sounds were to me – I’d forgotten how we used to all say ‘Far’ and ‘Aye?’ to each other as kids growing up in Northland), the credible characterization, the interesting plot structure (‘Before’ and ‘After’ as chapter headings for the first half of the book) to establish scenario and the motivations of characters.
I finished reading The Pōrangi Boy at the same time as watching the televised storming of the US Capitol. The contrast of the narratives could not have been more clear to me: in the novel, a small group of (brown) people trying to protect a sacred site from being decimated by a new prison (the purpose of the construction in and of itself symbolic of the values held by those in authority) became even more honourable and important to me when compared to the murderous mob of right-wing, white supremacist Trump supporters who attempted to subvert the legal process of confirming the US election results.
Huia Publishers deserve the accolades they are receiving from readers and booksellers about their publications – the books they are producing are worthy of the high praise. But Shilo deserves huge congratulations for producing a fantastic read. The book will find its way into the hands of those who need to read it (because it is celebrating their world) and those who should read it (anyone who needs to walk in the shoes of kids like Niko and Wai). It is a novel that would be wonderful for a class study – a teacher could focus on the writing style (use of present tense, dialogue), subject matter (protesting, poverty, whānau, bullying, relationships/friendship), and themes (being a leader, the importance of conservation and tikanga, what it means to be a real warrior).
I am so glad that Shilo has used her incredible skill as a journalist to write fiction. The children of Aotearoa deserve the treat of her books.
This review first appeared in Kete Books.
https://www.ketebooks.co.nz/all-book-...
This is true for Niko’s grandfather (Koro) as it is for Niko himself – bullied at school (lead by his cousin) and neglected by his parents (his dad is not on the scene and his mother isn’t really either – the suggestion that her ‘sickness’ is drugs or alcohol fueled).
The writing is a delight to read. Here’s an example of an early interaction between Niko and friend Wai.
‘Is that your mum?’ Wai’s holding an old back-and-what photo in her hands.
‘Yeah.’
‘Your mum was pretty as! Not saying she isn’t now… she just looks old, aye. How come she never comes out of the house? Haven’t seen Aunty in forever.’
‘Why don’t you ask her?’
‘Woah, angus. Sorry I asked.’
‘Well, how come your dad’s locked up?’
Her eyes stay on the photos. ‘The effects of colonization.’
‘Aye? Do you even know what that means?’
‘Nah.’ We both crack up.
‘That’s what my dad says. That the Pākehā colonized us, and now our people are all locked up. Anyway, he’s coming out next year! He’s got a flash job already with my uncle driving trucks, cool aye? Do you know your dad?’
‘Nah.’
‘Did he do a runner?’
‘Ask my mum.’
‘Is he a Pākehā?’
‘I dunno.’
‘Don’t you wanna know who your dad is?’
‘My koro was my dad.’
Words are not wasted and the sharp eye of observation is evident with each carefully chosen sentence. Through this matter-of-fact conversation, the reader is able to learn and understand the details of Niko’s world - all its struggles and challenges – but it communicates without being maudlin or preachy. The lives are what they are and, even though we might giggle alongside them as we eavesdrop on their conversation, we are moved by the stark truth of their circumstances.
There are many things I appreciated about this book: the fluidity of the writing, the authenticity of the dialogue (and how familiar the sounds were to me – I’d forgotten how we used to all say ‘Far’ and ‘Aye?’ to each other as kids growing up in Northland), the credible characterization, the interesting plot structure (‘Before’ and ‘After’ as chapter headings for the first half of the book) to establish scenario and the motivations of characters.
I finished reading The Pōrangi Boy at the same time as watching the televised storming of the US Capitol. The contrast of the narratives could not have been more clear to me: in the novel, a small group of (brown) people trying to protect a sacred site from being decimated by a new prison (the purpose of the construction in and of itself symbolic of the values held by those in authority) became even more honourable and important to me when compared to the murderous mob of right-wing, white supremacist Trump supporters who attempted to subvert the legal process of confirming the US election results.
Huia Publishers deserve the accolades they are receiving from readers and booksellers about their publications – the books they are producing are worthy of the high praise. But Shilo deserves huge congratulations for producing a fantastic read. The book will find its way into the hands of those who need to read it (because it is celebrating their world) and those who should read it (anyone who needs to walk in the shoes of kids like Niko and Wai). It is a novel that would be wonderful for a class study – a teacher could focus on the writing style (use of present tense, dialogue), subject matter (protesting, poverty, whānau, bullying, relationships/friendship), and themes (being a leader, the importance of conservation and tikanga, what it means to be a real warrior).
I am so glad that Shilo has used her incredible skill as a journalist to write fiction. The children of Aotearoa deserve the treat of her books.
This review first appeared in Kete Books.
https://www.ketebooks.co.nz/all-book-...
November 6, 2020
Funny, informative and moving. I love the way the author explores social, economical and cultural issues in a simple and truthful manner. The characters are believable and well constructed. A very enjoyable read.
October 28, 2024
There were so many times I wanted to cry reading this. It's written with so much aroha and I wish I'd had it when I was younger because it's an easy (if heartwrenching) way into exploring the plight of tāngata whenua. It's hard to envision how to teach heavy topics like this to bored teenagers and tweens but THE PŌRANGI BOY offers insight into protests like Bastion Point and the perspective of Māori without overwhelming you with an info dump. Rather, it tackles the topic with poignancy and emotional depth.
December 14, 2021
I found this quite an "ugly" book, in that it had what seemed like too many unnecessary references to shit, piss and penises ... but maybe that made it "real" to some readers?
I hated the cruelty of the other boys to Niko.
The use of colloquial language sounded authentic, and the fact that many Maori words and phrases were incorporated quite naturally and without patronising explanation was good. Overall though, I found this quite a sad read with little sense of optimism for the future.
I hated the cruelty of the other boys to Niko.
The use of colloquial language sounded authentic, and the fact that many Maori words and phrases were incorporated quite naturally and without patronising explanation was good. Overall though, I found this quite a sad read with little sense of optimism for the future.
March 25, 2022
This was really well written, I could imagine this being turned into a movie. I could hear each character as they talked, fantastic portrayal of Aotearoa. My daughter and I both thoroughly enjoyed this book. Look forward to Shilo writing more pukapuka!
September 17, 2025
The Pōrangi Boy was the chosen novel for my Year 10 class this year. While I think the content may be better suited for a Year 9 class, the language and engaging plot kept my students hooked from start to finish.
September 19, 2022
Very close to perfect. Well written, easy to read, captivating from the very first word, and incredibly culturally significant. Every teacher should be reading this aloud to their year 7-10 students.
January 3, 2024
This is a great coming of age book. Not too in-depth, but a good introduction and starting point for discussion on current issues within Aotearoa. Readers 9+.
November 18, 2023
cw: bullying, urination, death, Colonization,
I managed to read this with my eyeballs. That's pretty tough, but my options were limited a this is a locally produced book and there is no Audiobook version as yet. My daughter put me onto this title as it's one that she is being read in class (yr 6 - she is currently 11).
I think that this book is probably a little incomprehensible to non-New Zealanders. As far as accessibility that's a bit of an issue, but as far as the target audience is concerned that is important. A lot of the story is told in dialogue or conversation; kōrero. Reo Māori (indigenous New Zealand language) features prominently, but most of the terms are those that people on the street really ought to know. The historic significance of this is of te reo (the language) being taken back into public usage after years of oppression, violence, colonization, and the eroding of the status of the language (much as what happened to the Irish, Scots and Welsh languages due to .. England).
The main story is that of a lad called Niko, who has a close relationship with his koro (grandfather). His grandfather is a man who feels strongly about his values and doesn't mind not blending in. He is mocked by his community for being pōrangi (crazy) especially in his insistence of the existence of the local taniwha (water dragon / guardian spirit), a creature called Taukere, who he often wants to tell people about. He is also strange to many of the local Pākeha (White folks), who see him as a weird old dude covered in tribal tattoos.
The story is told in interspersed chapters that are set in two separate timelines, the Before and After. It's a coming of age story that shows what it's like when one has to take the mantle when an elder passes on, and inheritance skips a generation.
When local land is slated to be used as the site of a new prison, the Pōrangi Boy is the only one who is prepared to stand up against it, and bring local Tangata Whenua together to protect their land, their tapu places, and their mana.
I managed to read this with my eyeballs. That's pretty tough, but my options were limited a this is a locally produced book and there is no Audiobook version as yet. My daughter put me onto this title as it's one that she is being read in class (yr 6 - she is currently 11).
I think that this book is probably a little incomprehensible to non-New Zealanders. As far as accessibility that's a bit of an issue, but as far as the target audience is concerned that is important. A lot of the story is told in dialogue or conversation; kōrero. Reo Māori (indigenous New Zealand language) features prominently, but most of the terms are those that people on the street really ought to know. The historic significance of this is of te reo (the language) being taken back into public usage after years of oppression, violence, colonization, and the eroding of the status of the language (much as what happened to the Irish, Scots and Welsh languages due to .. England).
The main story is that of a lad called Niko, who has a close relationship with his koro (grandfather). His grandfather is a man who feels strongly about his values and doesn't mind not blending in. He is mocked by his community for being pōrangi (crazy) especially in his insistence of the existence of the local taniwha (water dragon / guardian spirit), a creature called Taukere, who he often wants to tell people about. He is also strange to many of the local Pākeha (White folks), who see him as a weird old dude covered in tribal tattoos.
The story is told in interspersed chapters that are set in two separate timelines, the Before and After. It's a coming of age story that shows what it's like when one has to take the mantle when an elder passes on, and inheritance skips a generation.
When local land is slated to be used as the site of a new prison, the Pōrangi Boy is the only one who is prepared to stand up against it, and bring local Tangata Whenua together to protect their land, their tapu places, and their mana.
February 14, 2024
Niko is a kind, deep soul but is called pōrangi (crazy) by a group of bullies at school, led by his own cousin Tū, because of his more gentle disposition and because of Niko’s ‘pōrangi’ Koro, who frequently got into trouble because of his penchant for doing the right thing, and because he believed in the taniwha, the ancient protector of their land. Colonisation is clearly the true villain, not the school bullies or manipulative family members, seen through the racist diatribe of the Pākehā residents and police force, but also more subtly in Niko’s cousin Tū’s desperate attempts to assert power and dominance in a world where, outside of the school grounds and family dynamic, he has none.
The tension grows when the news is shared of a prison that is to be built, and it divides the community. The accompanying propaganda is that the prison will provide jobs and reduce crime (I.e. more of the Māori population behind bars, and this isn’t simply an assumption, even one of the teachers snaps at a young student suggesting they would like to join their uncle in prison). The only true benefit is that Wai, Niko’s not-so-secret crush, will be able to visit her dad more easily, instead of commuting all the way to the prison in Auckland. Niko has the hardest task of all, standing up to his own family and friends, with only the memory of his Koro as inspiration.
The taniwha had great influence over how the community treats Niko, but the creature does not fully reveal itself, only making itself known to those who are deserving. It served as a metaphor for why the community should stand up for Pohe Bay, and prevent a prison from being built on the land, because it is an ancient guardian in the same way Māori are the custodians of this same land, but also for the power in believing in yourself, especially when you don’t necessarily have any proof.
Niko’s koro taught him that they should only fight when it is to protect and defend, not for the sake of power. I wanted Niko to win at the end, but of course this battle for land rights and against developers is an old and corrupt fight and so although it won’t be over quickly, Niko actually did succeed in another profound way by bringing his immediate whānau together at a time when they were close to breaking away.
Also, Niko had a copy of Matilda taken from him from bullies at school, and his favourite teacher very much resembled Miss Honey from the Matilda story and I loved the homage, and reminder that young and lonely people can find inspiration from unlikely sources.
The tension grows when the news is shared of a prison that is to be built, and it divides the community. The accompanying propaganda is that the prison will provide jobs and reduce crime (I.e. more of the Māori population behind bars, and this isn’t simply an assumption, even one of the teachers snaps at a young student suggesting they would like to join their uncle in prison). The only true benefit is that Wai, Niko’s not-so-secret crush, will be able to visit her dad more easily, instead of commuting all the way to the prison in Auckland. Niko has the hardest task of all, standing up to his own family and friends, with only the memory of his Koro as inspiration.
The taniwha had great influence over how the community treats Niko, but the creature does not fully reveal itself, only making itself known to those who are deserving. It served as a metaphor for why the community should stand up for Pohe Bay, and prevent a prison from being built on the land, because it is an ancient guardian in the same way Māori are the custodians of this same land, but also for the power in believing in yourself, especially when you don’t necessarily have any proof.
Niko’s koro taught him that they should only fight when it is to protect and defend, not for the sake of power. I wanted Niko to win at the end, but of course this battle for land rights and against developers is an old and corrupt fight and so although it won’t be over quickly, Niko actually did succeed in another profound way by bringing his immediate whānau together at a time when they were close to breaking away.
Also, Niko had a copy of Matilda taken from him from bullies at school, and his favourite teacher very much resembled Miss Honey from the Matilda story and I loved the homage, and reminder that young and lonely people can find inspiration from unlikely sources.
February 3, 2022
Porangi Boy is the much deserved winner of the Young Adult Fiction Award at the New Zealand Children’s Book Awards last year. It is a book with enormous heart that captures the culture and society of a small town in Northland with honesty and humour. Twelve year old Niko, the narrator, lives in Pohe Bay, a small town with a sacred hotspring which is protected by a Taniwha. The government wants to build a prison on the Taniwha’s home and Niko’s koro will do anything to stop them, even as the town calls him pōrangi - crazy. When Niko’s koro passes away he takes on the responsibility to protect the land and it’s treasures in the face of not just the government but his own bully who tells him he is as pōrangi as the old man.
Much of the book is told in flashback, but once I got used to it I found it added to the development of the story as you started to piece together the key events that have shaped Niko’s story and brought him to this turning point where he has to learn to fight for what he believes in.
Much of the book is told in flashback, but once I got used to it I found it added to the development of the story as you started to piece together the key events that have shaped Niko’s story and brought him to this turning point where he has to learn to fight for what he believes in.
March 27, 2022
Niko's koro provides him with heaps of wisdom like "You can’t listen if your heart is angry. You must let go" and "you misuse the power of taiaha, you will be cursed." He tells him off whenever he speaks ill about his aunty.
Another important character in Niko's life is his teacher who said: ""failure is a belief before it becomes an action. You need to believe first.’
It is cleverly constructed to flick between 'before' and 'after' with each new chapter encouraging readers to work out the influential event before reaching it.
It's humorous with digs at poor Pākehā pronunciation like this: "Tin of cocoa, tin of cocoa, tin of cocoa car door" and Aunty Rangi's comments like: "You fullas reckon this prison gonna solve your whānau problems and give you good money and a job? Like I said, the day I become a supermodel is the day that gonna happen."
It covers various themes: bullying, name-calling, domestic abuse, profit-seeking, perseverance, restraint, protest, Ngā Tamatoa, responsibility, and self vs community.
Another important character in Niko's life is his teacher who said: ""failure is a belief before it becomes an action. You need to believe first.’
It is cleverly constructed to flick between 'before' and 'after' with each new chapter encouraging readers to work out the influential event before reaching it.
It's humorous with digs at poor Pākehā pronunciation like this: "Tin of cocoa, tin of cocoa, tin of cocoa car door" and Aunty Rangi's comments like: "You fullas reckon this prison gonna solve your whānau problems and give you good money and a job? Like I said, the day I become a supermodel is the day that gonna happen."
It covers various themes: bullying, name-calling, domestic abuse, profit-seeking, perseverance, restraint, protest, Ngā Tamatoa, responsibility, and self vs community.
February 28, 2025
This book grabbed me more than I expected it to— I read this book in pretty much one sitting and I rarely do that as someone with low reading stamina haha.
The switching between present and past events flowed really well and added to the mystery and intrigue of the narrative. I do wish it had been edited a little more, there were missing dialogue marks that occasionally threw me out of the story because I had to make sense of it.
The subject matter gets a bit heavy at times. It features animal abuse/death, domestic violence towards children, and bullying, but the author approached it tastefully and it's not lingered on.
I felt swept up in the story and got quite teary at a few points. The writing really immerses you in the point of view of the young Māori boy protagonist, Niko. I think for any of my fellow Pākehā, if you can keep an open mind and heart this is a good one to read to broaden your understanding of what it's like to be Māori living in a colonized society, and also as an example of what tino rangatiratanga in action looks like!
Great book, solid 5/5 for me!
The switching between present and past events flowed really well and added to the mystery and intrigue of the narrative. I do wish it had been edited a little more, there were missing dialogue marks that occasionally threw me out of the story because I had to make sense of it.
The subject matter gets a bit heavy at times. It features animal abuse/death, domestic violence towards children, and bullying, but the author approached it tastefully and it's not lingered on.
I felt swept up in the story and got quite teary at a few points. The writing really immerses you in the point of view of the young Māori boy protagonist, Niko. I think for any of my fellow Pākehā, if you can keep an open mind and heart this is a good one to read to broaden your understanding of what it's like to be Māori living in a colonized society, and also as an example of what tino rangatiratanga in action looks like!
Great book, solid 5/5 for me!
August 31, 2022
After reading this I had to do some thinking and was wow they seemed like they unrealistically had it rough even character in the story had a form of immense hardship that just didn't seem right or maybe it felt overdone. And then in deeper reflection I was like no this is the reality for so many in Aotearoa. It wasn't overdone this is what some (a lot) are facing now a days.
Shilo King brought to the forefront what a lot of us would unconsciously or consciously choose to ignore.
I loved the everyday language she used and how the story was based on an event that actually happened. The story of Niko and his Koro was heart warming and brought a tear to my eye. It would be my wish that all children experienced this type of relationship.
Shilo King brought to the forefront what a lot of us would unconsciously or consciously choose to ignore.
I loved the everyday language she used and how the story was based on an event that actually happened. The story of Niko and his Koro was heart warming and brought a tear to my eye. It would be my wish that all children experienced this type of relationship.
November 30, 2022
This book is by far a must-have for any New Zealand school library. There's Te Reo scattered throughout, the representation of Maori culture and legends and the very real struggle of Pakeha claiming indigenous land.
Follow a young boy's journey through bullying, adventure and curiosity. His character growth throughout the novel is beautiful as he learns about his culture through his Koro. You see our protagonist step up and take over for his Koro and protecting a piece of land that is sacred for his iwi.
This book will absolutely pull on your heartstrings, especially if you are from Aotearoa.
Follow a young boy's journey through bullying, adventure and curiosity. His character growth throughout the novel is beautiful as he learns about his culture through his Koro. You see our protagonist step up and take over for his Koro and protecting a piece of land that is sacred for his iwi.
This book will absolutely pull on your heartstrings, especially if you are from Aotearoa.
July 6, 2024
Excellent writing. Shilo Kino is an author to keep an eye out for.
This book is a short read, but the time switches between past and present can hinder the pace of the book because it requires you to pay close attention in the beginning.
All in all, though, a must-read for Aotearoa. Pōrangi boy, is hugely relevant in our current day and age. Whilst reading this, I couldn't stop thinking of the phrase "the kids are gonna be all right" or however it goes.
To finish this review, I will quote the whakatauki that this book sparked in my mind while reading it:
He hono tangata e kore e motu; ka pa he taura waka e motu
This book is a short read, but the time switches between past and present can hinder the pace of the book because it requires you to pay close attention in the beginning.
All in all, though, a must-read for Aotearoa. Pōrangi boy, is hugely relevant in our current day and age. Whilst reading this, I couldn't stop thinking of the phrase "the kids are gonna be all right" or however it goes.
To finish this review, I will quote the whakatauki that this book sparked in my mind while reading it:
He hono tangata e kore e motu; ka pa he taura waka e motu
August 18, 2024
Niko was very close to his grandfather (koro) and remembers lots of his stories about their ancestors and the taniwha that lives in the river. The government want to build a prison on their sacred land, something Niko's koro had been very vocally opposed to. But the rest of the town think his koro was porangi (crazy), and Niko is bullied for being porangi too. How can he possibly make his voice heard? This is a realistic and authentic New Zealand story about a boy trying to stand up for the things that are important to him. Some of the characters have great dialogue (like Aunty Rangi), and there is some humour in amongst the serious messages. Highly recommended.
March 4, 2021
Good to read a heart-warming story set in our own NZ. Themes of bullying, poverty, friendship, families, racism. Worth adding to the school library and alerting the English Department to this book. Reads a little like The Whale Rider for younger readers and it's not too long which is a bonus for our slower readers. I would have loved a glossary/dictionary too as my te Reo is only coming along slowly.
Highly recommended to our Y9's (12/13 years old), but suitable for intermediates too (Y8 especially).
Highly recommended to our Y9's (12/13 years old), but suitable for intermediates too (Y8 especially).
May 22, 2021
DNF but 2.5 stars actually. It's a great book in its realism and the main character's development. The timelines switching back and forth let it down because it's hard to get into the swing of the story. I think this would be a barrier for some of the young people I've met who remind me of those in the story.
Also found the extent of the Maori language used a bit of a hindrance, but that's not an issue per se since I'm far from the target audience.
Also found the extent of the Maori language used a bit of a hindrance, but that's not an issue per se since I'm far from the target audience.
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