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The Pacific Chronicles #1

Islanders: The Pacific Chronicles

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When eleven-year-old Kilikina and her brother, fourteen-year-old Kaimana, are unknowingly given access to a hidden and legendary world in their native O’ahu in the Hawaiian islands, they are also gifted with an unexpected set of magical abilities. Soon, they find themselves on an adventure, one in which they experience the interconnectedness of the world around them and begin to learn firsthand about the islands’ vast history and traditions.

Guided by a quirky and silly duo from a mythical race of tiny people, the siblings soon learn they have been chosen to help protect their island and way of life from a great evil. Are they up to the challenge?

158 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 9, 2022

35 people are currently reading
3333 people want to read

About the author

James Eldridge

7 books29 followers
James was raised in Hawaii and now lives in Northwest Arkansas with his wife and 5 children.

After a near-fatal experience with COVID in 2021, including forty-five days on a ventilator in the ICU, multiple blood transfusions, being in an induced coma and having several live-saving surgeries, his road to recovery was both mentally and physically challenging.

James took to writing YA & Middle School books to help put the nightmare of COVID behind him. He is the award-winning author of The Pacific Chronicles series and the Hounds of War.

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5 stars
35 (53%)
4 stars
15 (22%)
3 stars
8 (12%)
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6 (9%)
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2 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
1 review
December 1, 2022
Fun, colorful read

Islanders is great fun and a very solid start to what promises to be a great series.

The book introduces us to a couple of young teens in the Hawaiian islands and sends them on a series of magical adventures. Honestly, this one has it all: a magic portal (of sorts); shady (but still comical) villains; an array of colorful creatures who befriend, guide and instruct our teen heroes; great island scenery; an environmental theme that is deftly and lightly woven into the story; an ominous ending; and the promise of great things to come.

The book uses a very small amount of Hawaiian vocabulary, which adds to the feel of the story. All Hawaiian words are translated in unobtrusive end notes.

The book is suitable for anyone over the age of ten. I am considerably beyond ten, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. A wide array of colorful characters keeps the story fresh and interesting. The book introduces us (or at least me) to the Menehune, a race of small people in Hawaiian mythology. The Menehune characters were playful but also served to illustrate the importance of building and preservation. A nice touch, and well done. In fact, the book is full of smart little moments that get picked up here and there throughout. It's been put together with attention and a good eye for detail.

Can't wait for the next volume. The ending hints that the next book will involve a significant struggle. Good thing our teen heros acquired some interesting powers when they stepped through that mysterious portal.

Excellent read, five stars.
Profile Image for H.G. Ahedi.
Author 24 books55 followers
February 1, 2023
Just Cute

Two curious kids, animals that can talk and make you laugh!

This was one of the most enchanting and entertaining tales I have read. Wow. What an imagination? I felt it was a great way of showing how we are connected to everything in the world. This book brought me closer to plants and animals with whom we share this planet.
Profile Image for Jacquii John.
Author 10 books8 followers
December 1, 2022
Enchanting fantasy world created with so much detail it’s easy to imagine actually being there and experiencing the emotions of Kilikina and Kaimana. It is great to be given the translation of the Hawaiian words, which add a unique twist to this amazing book.

This is the first book in the series and has left me itching for more!
Profile Image for Tabitha Womack.
Author 25 books105 followers
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January 23, 2023
Cute and unique

I live on the big island of Hawaii so this book was a treat. Adorable and chalk full of local culture. I was thoroughly entertained. It was a wholesome read for all ages. I really dug it.
Profile Image for S.A. Krishnan.
Author 31 books236 followers
December 28, 2022
Beautiful  adventure for kids and lovely introduction to the Hawaiian culture

Kili and Kai go into the forests of Hawaii and that starts an out of the world adventure for the two children.

The two children realize that they have the ability to talk to animals and that makes them special in the fantasy world of rats, mongoose, undersea creatures and many more.

Along with the danger, also come friends of all kinds.

But what brought them here? Can they brave through everything and get to their job.

Lovely description as the Hawaiian creatures and their stories come alive through the kids. The illustrations and the use of the native words brought out the flavour of the adventure better.

Enjoyable for the older kids and adults alike.
Profile Image for Book Reviewer.
4,856 reviews447 followers
March 15, 2023
On the lovely island of Oahu, Hawaii, siblings Kaimana and Kilikina embark on a hike up the mountain. But when a terrifying storm appears, the brother and sister find themselves changed beyond all belief. Fighting to understand their newfound abilities and the mysterious world into which they have stumbled, the siblings must work together to navigate a place of marvelous magic and mythology. Deadly threats work behind the scenes to undo the peace of the Hawaiian Islands, and the only hope for the future rests solidly on the shoulders of Kaimana and Kilikina and the friends that they have made.

The Pacific Chronicles Book 1: Islanders by James Eldridge is a wonderful journey to the Hawaiian Islands. The heritage and mythology of Hawaii permeate every single page, as the main plot of the story is perfectly complimented by the engaging cultural adventure woven throughout. From legends of the Menehune to the ancient protectors of the islands, the rich history of Hawaii is beautifully told in this light-hearted tale.

I loved the story of big brother Kaimana and his little sister Kilikina working together to explore a new dimension. I also loved Eleu and Molawa, the Menehune brothers, and their incredible antics. While threats are introduced, the main focus of this tale is the special bond between siblings and the true beauty of the Hawaiian Islands. Book one focuses mainly on why the Islands need to be protected, coming to a conclusion that sets the stage for many more adventures to come.

The Pacific Chronicles Book 1: Islanders is a captivating children’s fantasy novel that would be perfect for older elementary and middle-grade readers. A perfect story for all who love world culture, fantasy, and a story of familial friendship, the tale of Kaimana and Kilikina is only the beginning of what promises to be a truly remarkable adventure.
2,331 reviews37 followers
December 29, 2022
Kaimana's idea to go out despite their father's stern warnings. Kilikina told him that their father did not want them going out. kilikina could see herself not having any alternative option to stop her brother's cheeky attempts at adventure. So she decided to go with him. By the time Kaimana was cutting through Chang's backyard, Kilikina knew they were in too deep to go back. They are nearly struck by lightning but find when they “wake up” they discover that they both have purple eyes. They find themselves able to talk to a myna bird which makes them somewhat amazed. Will they be able to talk to other creatures? They are After a series of strange events, they are stuck in the bushes with rare abilities but no idea how to get back home. These two children do not realize they are about to become an integral part of a grand mission to save the islands from being overrun by an evil force. Will they succeed?

This is a first book of a series. The author has written an enchanting book about Hawaiian folklore and words. There are great illustrations. It is definitely worth reading as the story is fun, besides bringing attention to Hawaii as more than a tourist visit.


Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review or any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
Profile Image for Tove.
136 reviews2 followers
July 15, 2025
I won this book in a Storygraph giveaway, and was from the very beginning fascinated by the Hawai'ian lore included in this very cozy adventure. Who doesn't love mythology?

Unfortunately, the writing of this book left a lot to be desired for me. Granted, I am not the target audience, but because I too, as a quite well-read adult, had a hard time following what was happening, I imagine younger kids might have a similar experience.

I'm glad that so many reviewers seemed to love this, judging by the high-scored reviews, but sadly I don't really see it. I saw one review mention how often things's sizes were specified ("small", "tiny", "x feet in diameter", "large" etc etc) and then I couldn't help but notice it even more as I kept on reading. 😬

Additionally, this book really just serves as a buildup to what I imagine to be the "real adventure", and spends most of its time introducing us to this magical, hidden world, and characters I imagine will grow in importance as the series goes on.

All in all, not a book/series for me to continue, but the dose of Hawai'ian culture it offered kept me interested enough to wanna see it through to the end. 😊
Profile Image for Ella English.
Author 4 books95 followers
February 26, 2023
This book follows the adventurous journey of two siblings, Kaimana and Kilikina, who defy their father's warnings and embark on a perilous adventure. Kilikina joins her younger brother to keep him out of trouble, but as their escapade continues, they realize they have acquired extraordinary abilities, including communicating with animals. However, their newfound skills also leave them stranded, without any means of returning home.

The storyline was really compelling, filled with Hawaiian folklore and vocabulary, and the illustrations were superb! The author also deftly weaves an environmental theme into the story without overshadowing the plot.

This is great for readers over ten years of age, but its engaging plot, diverse characters, and well-thought-out details make it enjoyable for all ages. The Menehune characters are a playful and creative addition, highlighting the importance of building and preservation in Hawaiian mythology. The author's attention to detail is commendable, making this book a must read.
Profile Image for Bill Conrad.
Author 5 books12 followers
February 10, 2023
My daughter read Islanders: The Pacific Chronicles by James Eldridge and suggested I try it. It is a children’s book set in modern Hawaii. The story follows a brother and sister who undergo a magical journey with the mythical spirits who occupied the Hawaiian Islands.
The colorful illustrations and use of native Hawaiian words impressed me. James jumps right into the action with Kilikina and Kaimana discovering an old man who lives inside a tree. Very creative beginning, and the story blossoms into an exciting conclusion.
While this is not a long story, it is engaging, and I would have loved to have read it as a child. James Eldridge is an influential author who created something unique. This well-done novel deserves its place among the celebrated children’s works. I hope James continues to write and develop more fantastic creations.
Profile Image for R. M..
187 reviews1 follower
March 26, 2025
Full transparency; I won a digital copy of this book via Storygraph.
Two siblings find themselves called upon by the gods of their native Hawai'i. With newfound powers, they travel to meet said gods with the help of various animals named after Hawaiian folklore, and some creatures from said folklore.
A charming story with vivid descriptions, and a fun, well-explained introduction to Hawaiin folklore. The various animals have distinctive voices that suit them well, with some fun dialogue that had me giggling.
The ending is abrupt, and makes the book seem like a prequel to the series rather than the first book; it does a lot of setting up the story without having much story of its own. I recognise that its part of a series, and it hasn't put me off reading the rest of the series, but the story ends before reaching any turning point or climax, which I found disappointing.
Profile Image for M EP.
1 review1 follower
January 20, 2023
An Awesome, Epic Read for the Young Ones!

Excellent storytelling coupled with all the elements that make a great fantasy plot: parallel worlds, magical portals, mythology, and mysterious characters; everything on top of a Hawaiian backdrop that takes you in a nice cross-cultural experience without having to leave your home. A fantastic way to  learn about the beauty of other cultures.

The characters were diverse and full of life, which made the story really enjoyable. And the Chronicles are just getting started. Many of these characters, in addition to the main two, were either so unique or funny, or both, that made me want to find out how everything plays out in the series.
Profile Image for Linda Ellis.
182 reviews1 follower
April 3, 2023
I wanted to like this as I enjoy reading novels set in other cultures and I found the blurb and the author biography interesting. Sadly, I couldn't get on with it:

1. I didn't find the style of speech of the children easy to read, but admittedly I am not the age group the book is aimed at

2. There was a lot of Hawaiian language used, but too many words were not defined in the footnotes

3. The illustrations were good, but every one was accompanied by a message to "Click here to view full size illustration & NFT", in other words the images are being marketed. It would be reasonable to include the marketing at the beginning or end of the book, but I don't feel that it is appropriate to have it every few pages in a children's book.
20 reviews
May 23, 2025
I was previewing books to be used in class. This book doesn't fit the bill for that purpose. This book is a very good overview description of Hawaii while being a fantasy story with mythical characters. See other reviews for plot summary. However, it is a lead in to the series and not enough of a stand alone book. There is not enough action and plot development in book 1 for it to be used in class. To be a good in class book the story needs to wrap up and your desire to read other books in the series is based on wanting to continue to experience more with the same characters in the same environment. This book does not meet that criteria. So, it may be a good book SERIES for some kids, but we don't commit to an entire series when we do an in class book.
Profile Image for S.S. Saywack.
Author 9 books36 followers
December 12, 2022
The beginning of what promises to be a good and informative series set in Hawaii. When brother and sister are nearly struck by lightning they find they have changed and enter into the world of Hawaiian myths and folklore. They embark on a series of adventures aware that their change has happened for a reason yet to be discovered. The book is informative and funny and intriguing and moves along at a pace to keep the reader interested. There is a wonderful cast of characters and a great setting (a translation is provided for traditional Hawaiian words). The book ends on a cliffhanger, even so, it makes for a good read. It’ll be interesting to see how the story develops in the next book.
Profile Image for Khurram Elahi.
Author 2 books13 followers
September 24, 2024
This is an engaging exploration of life in the Pacific Islands, blending history, culture, and personal narratives. Eldridge offers a vivid portrayal of the diverse island communities, focusing on their traditions, challenges, and the impact of modernity on their way of life. With a strong emphasis on storytelling, the book captures the essence of Pacific Islander identity while providing insightful commentary on environmental and political issues. Eldridge's deep respect for the people and their histories shines through, making this a compelling read for those interested in the Pacific region's rich and complex cultural tapestry.
Profile Image for Maria.
3,053 reviews98 followers
December 19, 2022
So much fun! This book is filled with adventure and wonderful characters, woven with the legends and lore of Hawaii. A few pictures sprinkled throughout help illustrate this delightful story. There are also definitions. My personal favorite - that I agree with 100% - musubi: a ridiculously delicious snack of rice, seaweed, spam, and seasoning. Highly recommended for kids looking for a good adventure and anyone curious about Hawaiian culture.
Profile Image for Melody.
118 reviews
December 26, 2022
Disclaimer: I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for a fair and honest review.

This book was a mixed bag for me. I absolutely loved the world building and mythology. It sets up a great world for characters to explore and grow in. I legit wanted to be where they are. Some of the dialogue is excellent. I laughed out loud a few times.

But then, it felt like nothing actually happened in the book that was a big moment. I don’t think this book had enough content to sustain this as an entry in a series. I needed something more to happen that made me want to pick up book 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Arlene Lomazoff-Marron.
Author 7 books64 followers
January 5, 2023
Terrific!

What a fantastic story of animal, plant, and human life in Hawaii. Although as an adult I have visited Hawaii, I learned a few basic words and enjoyed the culinary treats. But my knowledge of the islands, and especially the language, was multiplied many times by reading this book with my family. The illustrations are wonderful, and the footnotes remarkable. To think this book came to fruition after an extensive bout with Covid is astonishing. Bravo!
Profile Image for Gabby.
200 reviews7 followers
March 6, 2025
This is a fun book for upper elementary or lower middle school grades. A touch if fantasy and magic set on the Hawaiian Islands. This story interweaves Hawaiian folklore, native animals, and unique geographical features. I especially loved the banter between the FMC & MMC with their shark like friends who tour them around the valley. The book leaves you with wanting to find out what happens next!
495 reviews8 followers
December 4, 2022
This book is a wonderful combination of Hawaiian culture, slang and lively youth ways, and magic. It's well written, and we follow along with a brother and sister as they talk to various animals in the jungle and under the sea. We learn Hawaiian ways and language along the way, for example, the spirit of aloha. I like that, and feel that we mainlanders should have some familiarity with it.
Profile Image for Feather Chelle.
Author 25 books49 followers
January 7, 2023
A magical adventure

This book is brimming with adventure, Hawaiian folklore, beautiful illustrations, talking animals, magic and more. I adore the animal dialogue and appreciate the included notes and definitions. I actually laughed out loud when they were trying to figure out the iPad, and I plan to read this with my kids, along with any subsequent volumes.
Profile Image for Shelly Neinast.
Author 4 books23 followers
February 4, 2023
A happy adventure

Great storyline for the younger person and for older readers as well. The author did a great job of writing a story that helps the younger reader to understand how the wild life and sea creatures live and the surrounding area of the Hawaii islands. I loved the Menehune they were funny creatures with a interesting personality.
118 reviews1 follower
February 8, 2023
Kilikina and Kaimana gain access to a legendary world in O'ahu in the Hawaii islands. It is an interesting hidden place. They find the unexpected there and also are given magical abilities. They learn more about the history and traditions. The book also includes some graphics on certain pages. It is unexpected and makes the book more interesting.
Profile Image for Lizzy Steinhauer-Li.
51 reviews2 followers
November 17, 2024
Fun adventures in a unique world

If you’re looking for entertaining creatures, adventures, and characters set in a delightful world, this is the book for you! Definitely reminds me of stories I enjoyed reading throughout my youth with a fun pair of siblings! I loved learning about the various Hawaiian terms and cultures!
Profile Image for Cia.
64 reviews1 follower
March 21, 2025
I received a copy of this book via Storygraph giveaway.

Really quite poorly written. The descriptions of motions and actions were overexplained and hard to follow, and the overuse of size as a descriptor is insane. I don't need to know that a cottage is like 10 feet wide by 25 feet long. If I was reading this as an on-level reader I'd have absolutely no idea what that meant.
Profile Image for Zahra M..
Author 8 books
November 23, 2022
Thrilling!!

I absolutely loved the world this author created. The graphics are amazing and high quality. The descriptions and the names for everything had a lot of thought and effort put in. You won’t be disappointed!
Profile Image for Chelsea Kong.
Author 127 books25 followers
December 7, 2022
A Hawaii Adventure

An interesting novel filled with creativity, fantasy, and more. It's a well written book with various creatures and animals. It surprised me that there are a few graphics within the book. It's the first reading about Hawaii. It's worth reading.
Profile Image for T.
364 reviews15 followers
January 15, 2023
An adventure

This is an adventure for kids. Lots of world building, along with plenty of creatures to discover and interact with. A good opening for what’s to come for the main characters.
Profile Image for Alexis Rae.
15 reviews
October 21, 2025
Won a giveaway on StoryGraph for this a few months ago and I finally had time to read it.

Really entertaining to read! I don't know much about Hawaiian folklore, so this was a really interesting and easy way to learn a bit about it! I wish I had this when I was in school!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews

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