Hawaii

James A. Michener

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'Hawaii' by James A. Michener is a sweeping historical novel that covers the history of Hawaii from its formation by volcanic forces to its induction as a State in 1959. The book delves into the arrival of the original inhabitants from other Polynesian islands, the influence of American missionaries and merchants, and the immigration of Chinese and Japanese to work on the sugarcane and pineapple plantations. Through a large cast of characters, the novel portrays the rich Polynesian culture being impacted by various external influences over the years.

The writing style of James A. Michener in 'Hawaii' is praised for its attention to detail, thorough research, and ability to present a vast historical span in a digestible fashion. The author's intricate storytelling weaves together the lives of different characters, showcasing the interconnectedness of the island's history and the diverse cultural influences that shaped Hawaii over the years.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed and span various backgrounds, representing significant cultural groups in Hawaii's history.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is somewhat cumbersome but effectively draws readers into its rich historical narrative.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot explores the historical evolution of Hawaii through multiple generations and cultural interactions, starting from its formation until it became a state.

Setting:

The setting is richly detailed, covering the geographical and cultural evolution of Hawaii over centuries.

Pacing:

The pacing varies, being slow initially but becomes more engaging as it transitions to character-centric stories.

MILLIONSUPONMILLIONS of years ago, when the continents were already formed and the principal features of the earth had been decided, there existed, then as now, one aspect of the world that dwarfed al...

Notes:

James A. Michener's 'Hawaii' was first published in 1959, coinciding with Hawaii becoming a state.

The first third of the book explores how Polynesians settled Hawaii from Bora Bora about 800 years ago.

Thor Heyerdahl's famous raft journey on the Kon Tiki in 1947 provided historical context for the novel's exploration of early Polynesian navigation.

'Hawaii' is notable for its diverse and relatable characters from various cultural backgrounds.

Michener's ability to weave fictional characters into real historical events sets 'Hawaii' apart from other historical fictions.

The novel addresses the Japanese American experience during Pearl Harbor through the lens of a local family.

Each section of the book covers different immigrant groups and their impacts on the Hawaiian culture, including American missionaries and Chinese and Japanese laborers.

The story stretches from the volcanic formation of the islands to the brink of their statehood in the 1950s.

Michener’s writing emphasizes the clash of cultures and social dynamics in Hawaii's history.

Despite its length (over 1,000 pages), many readers find 'Hawaii' to be an engaging and thought-provoking read.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

There are medium content warnings due to themes of colonization, cultural destruction, and instances of violence during the historical events depicted.

Has Romance?

There is a medium level of romance in the book, entwined with various characters' lives amidst the historical narrative.

From The Publisher:

Pulitzer Prize-winning author James A. Michener brings Hawaii's epic history vividly to life in a classic saga that has captivated readers since its initial publication in 1959. As the volcanic Hawaiian Islands sprout from the ocean floor, the land remains untouched for centuries-until, little more than a thousand years ago, Polynesian seafarers make the perilous journey across the Pacific, flourishing in this tropical paradise according to their ancient traditions. Then, in the early nineteenth century, American missionaries arrive, bringing with them a new creed and a new way of life. Based on exhaustive research and told in Michener's immersive prose, Hawaii is the story of disparate peoples struggling to keep their identity, live in harmony, and, ultimately, join together.

Praise for Hawaii

"Wonderful . . . [a] mammoth epic of the islands."-The Baltimore Sun

"One novel you must not miss! A tremendous work from every point of view-thrilling, exciting, lusty, vivid, stupendous."-Chicago Tribune

"From Michener's devotion to the islands, he has written a monumental chronicle of Hawaii, an extraordinary and fascinating novel."-Saturday Review

"Memorable . . . a superb biography of a people."-Houston Chronicle

Ratings (17)

Incredible (5)
Loved It (5)
Liked It (4)
It Was OK (2)
Did Not Like (1)

Reader Stats (32):

Read It (17)
Want To Read (10)
Did Not Finish (1)
Not Interested (4)

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Hawaii?

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About the Author:

James A. Michener was one of the world's most popular writers, the author of more than forty books of fiction and nonfiction, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning Tales of the South Pacific, the bestselling novels The Source, Hawaii, Alaska, Chesapeake, Centennial,…

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