As an ardent lover of historical fiction, I was captivated by ‘The Hawaiians,’ a masterpiece by prolific American author James A. Michener.
This book, a sequel to his earlier work ‘Hawaii’, is a richly woven tapestry of stories, painting a vivid portrait of Hawaii’s diverse culture and history from the 19th century to the late 20th century.
I will delve into this enchanting world, offering a comprehensive book summary, character analysis, and other fascinating insights.
Detailed book summary of ‘The Hawaiians’
‘The Hawaiians’ is an engaging blend of well-researched historical events, personal narratives, and a vivid portrayal of Hawaii’s cultural evolution.
The narrative follows the lives of several characters, each representing different ethnic groups that make up the cultural mosaic of Hawaii.
From the proud native Hawaiians to the hardworking Chinese immigrants and Western settlers, Michener’s book is a testament to Hawaii’s multicultural heritage.
The story begins with the journey of Nyuk Tsin, a resourceful Chinese woman who sails to Hawaii as a ‘picture bride.’
Her life intertwines with that of Whip Hoxworth, a descendent of the American missionaries, and together they build a prosperous life amidst the tumultuous changes in Hawaii.
Their descendants’ stories unfold against the backdrop of major historical events, such as the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy, the Pearl Harbor attack, and Hawaii’s eventual statehood.
Through the eyes of these characters, Michener offers a panoramic view of Hawaii’s transformation.
Key characters in ‘The Hawaiians’: Who’s who
Nyuk Tsin (also known as Madame Nyuk Tsin or the “China Lady”) is the book’s central character. A resilient and industrious Chinese woman, she is the matriarch of the Kwom Tong/Kalekona family. Her journey from a penniless immigrant to a wealthy landowner is truly inspiring.
Whip Hoxworth, a descendant of the original American missionaries in Hawaii, is another prominent character. Despite his many faults, his love for Hawaii and its people is evident. He represents the Western influence on Hawaii, often clashing with traditional values.
Other significant characters include Micah Hale, a native Hawaiian struggling to preserve his culture; Kamejiro Sakagawa, a Japanese immigrant striving for success; and Malama Kanakoa, the last reigning queen of Hawaii. Each character is a piece of the complex puzzle that forms Hawaii’s vibrant culture.
Comparative analysis: ‘The Hawaiians’ Book vs Movie
‘The Hawaiians’ was also adapted into a movie in 1970, directed by Tom Gries. While the movie captures the book’s essence, there are notable differences.
The movie focuses more on the character of Whip Hoxworth and his exploits, whereas the book gives equal importance to all characters, emphasizing their collective contribution to Hawaii’s history.
The film deviates from the book in several areas, simplifying complex historical events and relationships for a cinematic audience. For instance, the portrayal of Nyuk Tsin’s character is less nuanced, and her role is minimized compared to the book.
However, the film does a commendable job of visually portraying the beautiful Hawaiian landscapes and the period’s costumes, adding a layer of authenticity.
Parent guide to ‘The Hawaiians’
As a parent, I found ‘The Hawaiians’ to be a treasure trove of educational content. The book delves into various topics, from history and geography to social studies and cultural diversity.
It’s a great way to introduce your children to the concept of multiculturalism and the importance of tolerance and respect for different cultures.
However, I would recommend it for older teens due to the mature themes it touches upon, including political upheavals, racial tensions, and some explicit content.
It’s a great book to discuss with your teen, fostering open conversations about these complex topics.
Exploring the setting: When and where ‘The Hawaiians’ takes place
Set in Hawaii, the book spans from the mid-1800s to the late 20th century. It’s a period of great change for Hawaii, as it transitions from a monarchy to a U.S. territory, and finally to a state.
The story unfolds in various locations, from the bustling city of Honolulu to the lush pineapple plantations and serene beaches.
Michener’s meticulous details about the setting transport you to Hawaii, making you feel the warm tropical breeze, smell the fragrant plumeria, and hear the rhythmic hula chants.
The book serves as a time capsule, taking you on a journey through Hawaii’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes.
Visiting ‘The Hawaiians’: A travel guide to the film locations
For those inspired to visit the beautiful locales described in the book or seen in the movie, I recommend starting with Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii.
The Iolani Palace and the Bishop Museum are must-visits to understand Hawaii’s royal history and cultural heritage.
The North Shore, famous for its vast pineapple plantations, is another must-visit. It’s reminiscent of the plantations owned by the characters in the book.
For a taste of traditional Hawaiian culture, visit the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie.
Memorable quotes from ‘The Hawaiians’
‘The Hawaiians’ is filled with profound quotes that offer insights into the characters’ struggles and the broader themes of the book.
Here are a few that resonated with me:
- “To be a Hawaiian is to hold in one’s hand a mirror that reflects the past, and in the heart a hope that the future can be molded to our desire.” – Micah Hale
- “You are the land, and the land is you. To hurt the land is to diminish yourself.” – Madame Nyuk Tsin
- “Hawaii is not a state of mind, but a state of grace.” – Whip Hoxworth
The soundtrack of ‘The Hawaiians’ by Henry Mancini
Equally noteworthy is the movie’s soundtrack, composed by the legendary Henry Mancini.
The music beautifully captures the essence of Hawaii, blending traditional Hawaiian melodies with orchestral arrangements.
Tracks like ‘Pineapple Market’ and ‘The Wishing Doll’ transport you to the tropical paradise, enhancing the viewing experience.
Curiosities and fascinating insights into ‘The Hawaiians’
While researching ‘The Hawaiians,’ I came across several interesting facts.
For instance, the book was initially intended as part of Michener’s ‘Hawaii’ but was published separately due to its length.
Also, Michener’s meticulous research involved living in Hawaii for several years, interviewing locals, and studying historical documents to ensure the book’s authenticity.
Dress like ‘The Hawaiians’: Tips for cosplay
If you’re inspired to dress like the characters from ‘The Hawaiians,’ I have a few tips for you.
For Nyuk Tsin‘s look, opt for traditional Chinese attire, like a Cheongsam.
For Whip Hoxworth, a 19th-century Western outfit with a Panama hat would be perfect.
Remember, the key is in the details, so pay attention to the accessories like jewelry and footwear that were popular during the period.
The life and works of James A. Michener
James A. Michener was a renowned American author known for his historical fiction novels.
Born in 1907, Michener’s passion for writing blossomed later in life. His works are characterized by meticulous research and a keen eye for historical details.
Besides ‘The Hawaiians,’ his notable works include ‘Hawaii,’ ‘Centennial,’ and ‘The Source.’
His contribution to literature earned him several awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.
Understanding the ending of ‘The Hawaiians’
The ending of ‘The Hawaiians’ is a beautiful culmination of the characters’ journeys and Hawaii’s evolution.
It leaves us with a sense of hope for the future, despite the challenges faced by the characters.
It’s a testament to their resilience and the enduring spirit of Hawaii.
Exploring the possibility of a remake, sequel, or spin-off of ‘The Hawaiians’
Given the book’s timeless appeal and the current trend of remakes and sequels, a modern adaptation of ‘The Hawaiians’ would be exciting.
With today’s advanced technology and diverse casting, a remake could offer a fresh perspective on the story, appealing to a new generation of viewers.
Tom Gries and other media related to ‘The Hawaiians’
Besides the movie, there are several other media related to ‘The Hawaiians.’
Tom Gries, the movie’s director, also directed the TV series ‘Hawaii Five-O,’ which offers a modern take on Hawaii’s culture.
Additionally, the book ‘James A. Michener’s Writer’s Handbook’ provides insights into Michener’s writing process for ‘The Hawaiians.’
Similar media to ‘The Hawaiians’ and ‘Hawaii’
If you enjoyed ‘The Hawaiians,’ you might also like ‘Hawaii,’ the precursor to ‘The Hawaiians.’
Other similar books include ‘Tales of the South Pacific’ by Michener and ‘Moloka’i’ by Alan Brennert.
For movies, ‘South Pacific’ and ‘Blue Hawaii’ offer similar themes and settings.
Delving into other works by James A. Michener
If ‘The Hawaiians’ piqued your interest in Michener’s works, I recommend exploring his other novels.
‘Centennial’ delves into the history of Colorado, while ‘The Source’ explores the history of Judaism.
Each book offers a unique perspective on history, culture, and human nature, showcasing Michener’s storytelling prowess.
Book club questions for ‘The Hawaiians’
‘The Hawaiians’ can lead to engaging discussions in a book club.
Some questions to consider are: How does Michener portray the multicultural society of Hawaii? How do the characters’ personal stories reflect the broader historical events? What themes resonated with you the most, and why?
Video games inspired by ‘The Hawaiians’
While there are no video games directly inspired by ‘The Hawaiians,’ several games capture the spirit of Hawaii’s culture and history.
Games like ‘Aloha Paradise Run’ and ‘Hawaiian Explorer: Lost Island’ offer immersive experiences, taking you on virtual adventures through Hawaii’s stunning landscapes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ‘The Hawaiians’ by James A. Michener is a compelling journey through Hawaii’s rich history and diverse culture.
Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of Michener, or simply someone who loves a good story, this book is a must-read.
With this comprehensive guide, I hope you’ve gained a deeper appreciation for ‘The Hawaiians’ and are inspired to explore more of Michener’s works and the captivating world of Hawaii.
