Customer Reviews

Malamalama: A History of the University of Hawai'i

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The historical content of this book is quite interesting for anyone who has been a faculty, staff, or student of the UH system. Focus is primarily on the Manoa campus, but brief sections (a little too brief) include the expansion of the CC system, as well as the Hilo and West Oahu systems. Unfortunately, for some, the book goes too deep into the politics of the UH system and leaves the reader wanting to know more about the campus itself, such as individual building constructions and proposals; the architectual designs of the more modern buildings; food services; the parking crunch. Additionally, the book is severely lacking in specific dates; for example, there is not even an appendix entry on when buildings were completed. Overall, it's an interesting read, but may leave many wanting for more, especially for post-1970's context, which is far too few.

Malamalama: A History of the University of Hawai'i, becomes interesting at two points in time: when the book first comes out (1998) and at some time in the future when it becomes that valued (quaint or scholastic) history.

I first read it in 1999, when I wanted to be introduced to the background of the Univeristy of Hawaii. I also read Who Runs the University: The Politics of Higher Education in Hawaii, 1985-1992, by David Yount, which came out in 1996. One book focuses on place, and the other focuses on politics.

Robert M. Kamins does a nice job with Malamalama: A History of the University of Hawai'i. There is a great deal of detail about the people and events that shaped the university. At the end, you WILL feel that you have a much better understanding of the University of Hawaii.

Oh, and that young woman on the dust jacket? Aunty Bea. Kamins also dedicates the book to her... now there is a book that still needs to be written.