"Reading is one of the most free and magical ways to enhance your life." Award-winning writer, actor and director Oscar Kightley sums up the benefits of reading in this book which was written to inspire young people to pick up a book and read in a world dominated by phones and digital content. David Riley interviews over twenty prominent Kiwis to find out about how important reading has been in their lives. An interesting book which provides insight into the way books have shaped the lives of Kiwis in the spotlight.
A collection of poems by South Auckland-born GP Glenn Colquhoun to explain poetry to his father who was a builder. The poem that best does this is 'The word as a tool' which begins with 'Language is as full of tools as the inside of a hardware store.' His poems use language as tools to paint, draw and build an understanding of the power of the written word to explore the world. A beautiful collection which encourages the reader to pause and reflect on what poetry really means.
A collection of the personal stories of twenty Pasifika people from a range of backgrounds who share values of alofa and service to their family and communities in New Zealand. These stories detail not only their successes but their grit, determination and resilience to face and overcome the challenges of systemic racism and adversity. An interesting read for anyone who wants to learn about the history of Pacific people in Aotearoa.
Rereading Karlo Mila's first collection of poetry which explores family, friends and identity. If you like poetry with raw and unapologetic language then this is the book for you!
A simple bilingual story of the love of family.
A collection of short stories sharing experiences of life in Samoa from an afakasi lens. Stories that lift the veil on life in Samoa and uncovers what life is really like in Samoa for Samoans and Afakasi Samoans. A great read!
I have just started this book but will update the number of pages as I go. McCourt's writing makes reading a joy. Chapter one focuses on his first day as a teacher at McKee Vocational and Technical High School and how he almost got fired over eating a student's sandwich. School lunches anyone? This book also tells the story of how he went from being a classroom teacher to a writer.
An excellent book and resource for Samoans living outside of Samoa. This book explains the origins and meanings of Samoan proverbs, traditional speeches and ceremonies e.g 'Ava ceremony.
A moving and uplifting story of self-discovery and having a second chance at life even after death. An interesting opening chapter with the last sentence a reminder to us to take stock and to make the most of our lives before it is too late.