Customer Reviews

Hawaiian Legends of Ghosts and Ghost Gods

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I feel that this book was well researched and very interesting. As I read through the stories, I was reminded of the Hawaiian legends I was told as a child. What I thoroughly enjoyed was how the author told the stories of all the islands in the Hawaiian chain. In this way it showed a distinct difference between the Hawaiians of each island and yet portrayed the very rich oral tradition of the culture that unites the Hawaiian people. Whether the reader wants to learn more about ancient Hawai'i, or is like myself wanting to reminisce about the stories of childhood, everyone will enjoy this book. The only critique I have is the way in which Mr. Westervelt uses the Hawaiian laguage incorrectly. He uses the rules of the English laguage to express Hawaiian words. Because this book is about Hawai'i and repeatedly makes use of Hawaiian words, I would have liked to see more consultation with those who speak Hawaiian to ensure more accuracy in his account of these legends.

This fascinating tome, originally published in 1916, is a goldmine of Hawaiian myths and folktales. But, the book is more than that; through the use of the individual tales, the author attempts to give the reader a thorough understanding of Hawaiian folk beliefs about death. Overall, I found this to be a fun and highly informative read. If you interested in Hawaiian mythology and folklore, then you must read this book!