My Time in Hawaii: A Polynesian Memoir

by Victoria Nelson

A beautifully wrought memoir of her time in Honolulu, spanning the years from 1969 to 1981.

Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir

242 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1989

Reviews

[Kitty · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author’s adventure begins with her taking a teaching position in the English Department at the University of Hawaii, Honolulu in 1969. In addition to her personal story she includes interesting information about earlier literary visitors to the Islands (Melville, Twain, and London) as well as delving into the historical and cultural heritage of this tropical place. Since her journey includes several islands she provides insight into some of the unique features of the various locations. The impact of the early 1970s hippie invasion is another thread interwoven into this story of interesting times in interesting places.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

An utter delight! This is a literary account of the author's years in Honolulu. As an archeology major, Nelson knows her cultures: she paints accurate pictures of Hawaii's diverse ethnic communities. As an English professor and writer extraordinaire, Nelson's language and metaphors are clear, incisive, and poetic. Compared to "Kahala" (which I read immediately previously) the authors' viewpoints and use of language are at extreme ends of the autobiographical spectrum. This is the book to read.