Lāna‘i’s Coastal Places Featured in New 12-Book Series

October 2023 - Lāna‘i Culture & Heritage Center (CHC) released a 12-book series that showcases significant coastal areas on Lāna‘i. Authors Diane and Shelly Preza wrote the series to introduce early readers to wahi pana—storied and culturally important places on the island’s coastline. These include Kaiolohia, Kaumālapaʻu, Kaunolū, Keōmoku, and Mānele.

Available in both English and ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, the ʻāina-based readers offer valuable tools for children who are learning how to read while staying connected to place and culture.

This new release marks the second set of books created by Lāna‘i CHC to provide youth with educational materials rooted in their home island. The first set debuted in 2021. As a result, other communities throughout Hawaiʻi have shown interest in developing similar resources for their own regions. Pūlama Lāna‘i and the Lāna‘i Community Benefit Fund helped fund the second set.

Together, the books guide young readers on a meaningful journey across the island’s beautiful and storied landscapes. Each title in the series highlights a specific place and celebrates Lāna‘i’s rich heritage and natural beauty. Consequently, the series encourages curiosity and deeper awareness of the island and its history.

Starting October 20, the set will be available for sale at the Lāna‘i Culture & Heritage Center’s museum. Additionally, Lāna‘i CHC plans to donate book sets to Lāna‘i High & Elementary School and to selected Hawaiian immersion schools in Maui County.

Lāna‘i Culture & Heritage Center published a 12-book series that showcases significant coastal areas on Lāna‘i. The book series was written by Diane and Shelly Preza.