Aue

Aue by Becky Manawatu is a powerful and haunting novel that weaves together themes of grief, resilience, and love. Set against the stunning backdrop of New Zealand, the story follows the lives of two brothers, Taukiri and Arama, as they navigate a world filled with sorrow and hope. Born into a life of hardship, Taukiri carries the weight of his family's tragic past on his shoulders. He hears the pain echoed in the sound of the sea he both loves and hates, and it reverberates through the notes he coaxes from his father's guitar. This deep sorrow stems from gang violence that claimed the life of their father and forced their mother into hiding, leaving Taukiri to grapple with immense guilt for abandoning his younger brother, Arama.

Arama, on the other hand, is seemingly small and vulnerable but possesses an extraordinary inner strength. Despite being left in a violent household, he finds solace and companionship in an unlikely trio: himself, his loyal friend, and a faithful dog. Together, they form a bond that might just be unbreakable enough to resist the relentless tide of sorrow that threatens to engulf them. Guided by compassion (aroha), the characters are driven to share stories and heal old wounds, sustained by a simple yet profound hope for a better future.

This debut novel from Becky Manawatu is both raw and sublime, offering a fresh and compelling voice in New Zealand fiction. With its deeply emotional narrative and richly developed characters, Aue explores the enduring power of family, friendship, and the human spirit to overcome even the darkest of times. Haere mai, Becky Manawatu.