The Whale Rider
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The Whale Rider
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The Whale Rider
The Whale Rider by Witi Ihimaera is a compelling tale set in the quaint village of Whangara, located on the East Coast of New Zealand. This spellbinding story intertwines the rich cultural tapestry of the Maori people with the breathtaking beauty of nature. At the heart of the narrative is Kahu, an eight-year-old girl who is deeply connected to her heritage and feels an innate calling to lead her tribe. However, her path is fraught with challenges, particularly from her traditionalist grandfather, Koro Apirana, who is steadfast in his belief that only a male heir can become the chief.
As the story progresses, the village encounters an extraordinary event: a pod of whales becomes stranded on the shore. In this critical moment, Kahu steps forward, embracing her destiny as she attempts to save not only the majestic creatures but also the spirit of her clan. Through a beautiful blend of myth and modernity, Ihimaera captures the essence of duty, bravery, and the enduring strength of tradition.
The Whale Rider is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of perseverance. It explores themes of gender roles, leadership, and the intrinsic connection between humans and nature. The evocative prose and rich storytelling envelop readers in a world where myth and reality coexist in harmony.
This novel's significance was further cemented when it was adapted into a beloved film. Its impact continues to resonate, celebrated globally as an international bestseller. To mark 50 years of Penguin publishing in New Zealand, The Whale Rider has been released in the Popular Penguin format. This edition pays homage to Penguin Books' foundational vision established in 1935 by Allen Lane: to provide intelligent books to a vast reading public at an affordable price.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of The Whale Rider and experience the journey of Kahu, a young girl whose courage and determination challenge the constraints of tradition and pave the way for future generations.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
The Whale Rider by Witi Ihimaera has been praised for its enchanting blend of Māori mythology and contemporary themes. Reviews highlight its poignant storytelling, strong cultural representation, and the inspiring journey of its young female protagonist. The vivid prose and emotional depth have resonated with many readers, marking it as a memorable and moving read.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781776950669
Publisher: Penguin Group (NZ)
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 01 August 2023
Country: New Zealand
Imprint: Penguin Books (NZ)
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 12.0mm
Width: 111.0mm
Height: 181.0mm
Weight: 108g
Pages: 192
About the Author
Witi Ihimaera was the first Maori to publish both a book of short stories and a novel, and has published many notable novels, collections of short stories and in 2020 published his substantial nonfiction work, Navigating the Stars. Described by Metro magazine as 'Part oracle, part memoralist,' and 'an inspired voice, weaving many stories together', Ihimaera has also written for stage and screen - including libretti - edited books on the arts and culture, as well as published various works for children. His best-known novel is The Whale Rider, which was made into a hugely, internationally successful film in 2002. His novel Nights in the Garden of Spain was also made into a feature film, and was distributed internationally under the name of Kawa. The feature film White Lies was based on his novella Medicine Woman. And his novel Bulibasha, King of the Gypsies inspired the 2016 feature film Mahana. His first book, Pounamu, Pounamu, has not been out of print since its first publication in 1972. His works have received many awards over the years, such as the Wattie Book of the Year Award and the Montana Book Award, and most recently the Ockham Award for best non-fiction in 2016 for his first volume of memoir, Maori Boy. The second volume, Native Son, was published in 2019, the same year Purakau was released, which he co-edited- editing volumes celebrating the work of other writers has also been an important part of Witi's focus. He has also had careers in diplomacy, teaching, theatre, opera, film and television. He has received numerous awards for his contribution to literature, including the inaugural Star of Oceania Award, University of Hawaii, a laureate award from the New Zealand Arts Foundation 2009, the Toi Maori Maui Tiketike Award 2011, and the Premio Ostana International Award, presented to him in Italy 2010. In 2004 he became a Distinguished Companion of the Order of New Zealand, in 2017 France made him Chevalier de l'ordre des Arts et des Lettres and the same year he received the NZ Prime Minister's Awards for Literary Achievement. Receiving the Maori arts award Te Tohutiketike a Te Waka Toi, Ihimaera said, 'To be given Maoridom's highest cultural award, well, it's recognition of the iwi. Without them, I would have nothing to write about and there would be no Ihimaera. So this award is for all those ancestors who have made us all the people we are. It is also for the generations to come, to show them that even when you aren't looking, destiny has a job for you to do.'
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