Basically Books
Books
Petroglyph Press publishes a line of Hawaiiana books which are 100% "Made in Hawaii." From design and composition through binding and distribution, these books are "local style."
A Concise History of the Hawaiian Islands
by Dr. Phil Barnes
Paperbound, 86 pages, 0-912180-56-0, 5.5x8.5, $12.95A Concise History of the Hawaiian Islands covers the major events and personalities in Hawaiian history from the first human landfall through the sovereignty movement of the late 1990's. This new, updated edition also includes the momentous modern events that focused worldwide attention on the 50th state as it celebrated its 50th Anniversary. Most notable of these was the historic election of Hawaii–born Barack Obama to the U.S. presidency.
The history comes to life through illustrations and interesting anecdotes. By investing a couple of hours the casual reader can greatly increase the depth of their understanding of the events that have shaped and continue to shape these magical islands.
Enchanting Creatures of Hawai'i Island
written and illustrated by Erzsi Palko.
Staplebound, 9780912180816 $9.95Enchanting Creatures of Hawai'i Island takes you and your family on a journey -- through hand-drawn coloring pages, fun ecological facts, and whimsical rhymes -- meeting native Hawaiian creatures and plants from the island’s volcanic slopes down to the sea. Hawai'i Island, AKA “the Big Island,” is not only home to active volcanoes, but also to delightful forest bird species found nowhere else on earth—including the 'oma'o, 'akiapola'au, Hawai'i 'akepa, Hawai'i 'elepaio, and 'alawi. Being the biggest and youngest (and still forming) island of the Hawaiian Island chain, Hawai'i Island still has substantial tracts of forest where threatened species once common on all the islands are managing to persist in large enough numbers to actually be seen—including the iconic 'i'iwi bird and, 'io, the Hawaiian hawk. Featured are these unique forest birds, as well as the beloved nene goose, giant Hawaiian dragonfly, Hawaiian bat, green sea turtle, dolphins, and many other creatures native to all the Hawaiian Islands. This coloring book is a must-have for families and educational groups planning a visit to Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park interested in learning about some of the island's unique native species. Remember your coloring pencils and crayons! May coloring these native Hawaiian forest and sea creatures and speaking their rhymes truly lead to recognizing and meeting more of them!/p>
Selections from Hawaiian Legends of Volcanoes
by William D. Westervelt ~ illustrated by Dietrich Varez
Paperbound, 120 pages 978-0-912180-75-5 5.5x8.5 $19.95When Hawaiian Legends of Volcanoes was first published in 1916, William Drake Westervelt introduced stories of the volcano goddess Pele to an English speaking audience. The reader explores Pele's lasting influence on the cultural and physical environment of Hawai'i through traditional tales of her tempestuous nature and fierce power. W. D. Westervelt's timeless storytelling is combined with full color and block print artwork by Dietrich Varez to create a stunning picture of Pelehonuamea; Pele of the sacred land.
Pele's voyage to find a new home echoes a cultural history of migration. She is accompanied by her family, including her shark-god brother, Kamohoali'i and her youngest, most-beloved sister, Hi'iakaikapoliopele. Conflicts with her sisters and rivals - Namakaokaha'i, the sea goddess, and Poli'ahu, the snow goddess - offer explanations for natural events framed in glorious battles. Kamapua'a, her demi-god lover and rival, features prominently in stories displaying her explosive jealousy. Interspersed in the doings of gods are Pele's encounters with mortals, who often emerge the worse for the experience.
Republication of this iconic work celebrates the 100th anniversary of its original printing, as well as the concurrent centennial celebrations of the United States National Park Service and the creation of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Petroglyph Press is pleased to present Selections from Hawaiian Legends of Volcanoes for a new generation of readers to enjoy.
Retold by Frances Reed
Illustrated by Jan Moon
Paperbound, 68 pages, 978-0-912180-65-6, 5.5x8.5, $9.95The charming legends associated with landmarks around the town of Hilo have been retold in words and pictures in this compilation of favorite stories. Included are "How Hilo Got Its Name," "The Story of Coconut Island" and the Maui and Hina legends centering on Rainbow Falls and The Boiling Pots.
For many years Frances Reed was a children's librarian at the Hawaii County Library and used these tales in her story-telling hours. Jan Moon is a well-known Hilo artist and illustrator. Both women had lived in Hilo for 30 years when they worked together to create an enchanting book that will be enjoyed by both adults and children.
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by Dietrich Varez
Paperbound, 56 pages, 978-0912180-66-3, 8x8, 12.95Born on a stormy night full of intrigue and mystery, Hina, The Goddess has origins almost as wondrous as the tales of Hina herself.
While viewing performances of the powerful and ancient Kahiko form of hula at the 1986 Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo, Hawai'i, the audience had an unforgettable experience. A raging storm swept over Hilo. Thunder clapped and lightning struck, plunging the entire town of Hilo, including the festival, into utter darkness.
Many wondered if it was mere coincidence that the evening's events included a compulsory chant for the wahine which spoke of Hina and the gourd calabash in which she captured three windstorms. Known for her forceful ways and power over the physical world, Hina is not to be taken lightly. One halau took this sign from the heavens so seriously that they withdrew from the competition.
Dietrich Varez was so struck by this incident and the power of the chant, he was inspired to create the first of the block prints appearing in Hina, The Goddess picturing Hina with her calabash. As his interest was piqued, he went on to delve further into the mythology of Hina in her many forms and from his research was inspired to create a series of block prints representing the many amazing and varied tales associated with Hina.
Petroglyph Press is proud to present this culmination of experience, imagination and talent so vividly portrayed in Varez's signature style block prints and corresponding legends. We believe you, too, will feel the presence of the goddess Hina as you experience Hina, The Goddess for yourself. Born on a stormy night full of intrigue and mystery, Hina, The Goddess has origins almost as wondrous as the tales of Hina herself.
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edited by Martin & Judy Beeman
Paperbound, 134 pages, 0-912180-41-2, 5.5x8.5, $10.95This collection was compiled from recipes shared by some of the best cooks living on the Big Island of Hawaii. Some are gathered from foreign lands, some are family recipes passed from generation to generation and some are shared through friendship. These family favorites illustrate the great variety of dishes available
in our Hawaiian paradise through the
blending on the many varied races and nationalities living here
in harmony. Included are recipes from the Philippines such as Pork Adobo with Spinich,
treats from Portugal such as Pao Doce (sweet bread), specialties from Japan such as Sashimi and Namasu,
and local dishes like LomiLomi Salmon. We hope you enjoy all of these local favorites.
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Kenuhunamoku; A Story of Old Hawaii
By Dietrich Varez
Paperbound, 64 pages, 978-0-912180-77-9, 8.5x11, $9.95In a peaceful seaside village lived a resourceful girl, Lehua, and her companion, a piglet named 'Ehu. After their home is struck by drought and famine they find themselves swept away across the sea to the hidden island, Kanehanamoku, home of the gods, Kane and Kanaloa. In a series of encounters orchestrated by the gods, Lehua’s kindness, bravery, and selflessness are rewarded and provide an example for all to follow. The villagers rejoice when the duo return and are overjoyed with the wondrous gifts they bear.
Author and artist, Dietrich Varez, has drawn upon decades of study to create imagery depicting Hawaiian folklore and has lovingly hand lettered the text. The simple line drawings are perfect for coloring, however this is much more than a coloring book. Using his original characters, Lehua and 'Ehu, he has interwoven classic Hawaiian tales into the narrative and provides inspiration to further explore the vast, rich lore of the ancient Hawaiians.
Travel now to the secret island of the gods, Känehünämoku, and see what wonders will be revealed.
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Coloring Book by beloved Hilo artist Jan Moon
Staplebound, $9.95
Hawaii's unique and diverse sea life is presented in a charming coloring book that shows the rich bounty of reef life under the sea. The Hawaiian word i'a is defined as "fish or any marine animal." Within I'A Sea Life Coloring Book, descriptions of the colors, habits and habitats of sea creatures are delightfully hand lettered by Hilo artist, Jan Moon. The rising popularity of coloring images for relaxation and meditation is acknowledged as a soothing therapy for the stresses of modern life. Equally appreciated by children and adults, the I'A Coloring Book allows anyone to float along with the charming inhabitants of Hawaiian coastal waters, while learning about our precious ocean environment. Published in Hilo by Petroglyph Press, and priced at $9.95, I'A Sea Life Coloring Book is available at Basically Books in Hilo and book and gift stores throughout Hawaii.
Artist Jan Moon has made her home in the Keaukaha neighborhood of Hilo since 1960. Living just a short walk from the ocean has inspired her to study and record the varied sea life she has observed on her frequent swimming and coastal explorations. Adventures beyond Hawai'i and around the world, including the study of plants and wildlife in the South Pacific and Midway Atoll, make her uniquely qualified to portray the subjects she has long studied. In addition to pen and ink drawings, Moon is well known for her vibrant full color paintings on silk of Hawaiian birds, sea creatures and exotic scenes. Ms. Moon's illustrations are featured in Hilo Legends, also published by Petroglyph Press. - (Top)
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by Dietrich Varez
Paperbound, 54 pages, 978-0-912180-72-4, 5.5x8.5, $9.95The latest contribution of beloved artist Dietrich Varez to interpreting and illustrating stories from Hawaiian folklore is presented in 'Iwa, The Hawaiian Legend. When the fisherman Kea'au, renowned for catching octopus, finds two beautiful and rare red cowry shells he thinks they must be a gift from the goddess Hina. After he fashions them into a lure, the octopus swarm to the magical shells and he gathers more than enough to feed his whole village. The bounty is short lived when chief 'Umi learns of the magical shell lure and demands to have it for himself. Thus begins the tale of how the boy-thief, 'Iwa, who exhibits the same thieving traits as his namesake, the Great Frigatebird, is invited to the island of Hawai'i to retrieve the precious lure. There he encounters the high chief 'Umi, famous historical ruler of Hawai'i island, who puts 'Iwa's talents to the test. The rich imagery of Hawai'i's diverse environment, its sea life, plants and animals is depicted alongside Varez's interpretation of the human aspect of this classic tale.
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by Eliza Maguire
Illustrated by Eva Anderson
Paperbound, 56 pages, 0-912180-54-5, 5.5x8.5, $7.95It was in 1866 that Eliza Maguire first heard these stories from old Hawaiians on Huehue Ranch in the Kona district on the island of Hawai'i. Many years later she translated them into English. First published in 1926, they are simple tales shared among the people of Kekaha, the barren desolate section of North Kona that has often been ravaged by Pele, the Volcano Goddess.
Included in this collection is the tale of 'Akahipu'u, in which mischievous menehune try to steal the top of a hill, and the story of the cave of Makalei, which provided water to generations of Kona residents. This updated edition of Kona Legends includes a new cover and artwork by Eva Anderson. We hope that this collection will lead you to a richer understanding of the Kona area, its history, and its people.
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The Life and Times of Kamehameha
by W.D. Westervelt
Illustrated by Dietrich Varez
$16.95The Life and Times of Kamehameha presents a century-old series of articles by William Drake Westervelt, published in English language periodicals between 1903 and 1925. It reveals familial and diplomatic relationships among the chiefs of the various islands and districts. Fierce battles, pivotal moments, and political maneuvers paved the way for Kamehameha's consolidated rule of all the islands of Hawai'i. The events described in this text open a window, not only into ancient Hawai'i, but also into the early years of the Twentieth Century. Illustrations by Dietrich Varez depict Kamahemeha's legendary feats, mythological figures, and the lifestyle and activities of ancient times.
Born under a stormy sky in Kohala, on the island of Hawai'i, an infant chief was whisked away and raised in seclusion. No one is sure of the exact year of his birth, but it is known he arrived amid prophecies of greatness and change. Diligently trained in warrior arts, ali'i protocol, and priestly rituals, he became known as Kamehameha, The Lonely One. Legendary warrior and kingdom builder, he was a brilliant strategist and a shrewd negotiator, a man of vision and wisdom. Uniquely positioned by heredity, grooming, and timing, he united war-torn lands, created codified laws, established trade with foreigners, and brought a time of peaceful prosperity to a swiftly changing society. The founder of the Kingdom of Hawai'i, Kamehameha I died on May 8, 1819, in Kailua Kona, leaving behind a unified realm and an extraordinary legacy.
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Legends of Maui, A Demi-God of Polynesia, and of his mother Hina
written by W. D. Westervelt - illustrated by Dietrich Varez
Paperbound, 116 pages 978-0-912180-76-2 5.5x8.5 $19.95"The Maui story probably contains a larger number of unique and ancient myths than that of any other legendary character in the mythology of any nation.' William Drake Westervelt
Maui is a mythic figure that lifts up the heavens and fishes up islands from beneath the sea with his magic fishhook; a folk hero that snares the sun to make it move more slowly and discovers the secret of fire. Hina is a goddess that creates the finest white kapa and spreads it in the heavens as clouds. She sacrificed herself for her people in a time of drought and famine, and now watches over them from her home in the moon. Two of the most beloved mythical figures in Polynesian folklore are the demi-god Maui, and his mother, Hina. Their stories are told in places spread over a vast geographic area, from Hawai'i, to New Zealand, Tahiti, and beyond. This highlights the vastness of Polynesian exploration and the connection among shared cultures thousands of miles apart. These tales have origins traceable to the mythic homeland of Hawaiki and back into the mists of time. They continue to have a place in modern storytelling and in the hearts of those who hear them.
The evocative, century-old writing of William Drake Westervelt combines beautifully with the contemporary artwork of Dietrich Varez. A Hawai'i Island resident whose artwork was been inspired by the writings of Westervelt and other early scholars, Varez brought a lifetime of study and deep respect for Polynesian culture and mythology to his block prints and oil paintings. He also provided illustrations for a new edition of Westervelt's Hawaiian Legends of Volcanoes, printed in 2016 by Petroglyph Press. Together, the works of these two remarkable men create fresh presentations, reintroducing these classic tales to new generations of readers around the world.
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written by Barbara Baldwin Lyons - illustrated by Dietrich Varez
Paperbound, 56 pages, 9780912180809, 5.5x8.5 $9.95"The Maui story probably contains a larger number of unique and ancient myths than that of any other legendary character in the mythology of any nation." - William Drake Westervelt
Maui is a mythic figure known throughout Polynesia who lifts up the heavens, and fishes up islands from beneath the sea with his magic fishhook; a folk hero that snares the sun to make it move more slowly, and shares the secret of making fire. Maui is the mischief maker, benefactor, worker of miracles. As a demigod he used his supernatural power to benefit his people; but he also loved to play pranks. Maui is well loved for his mixture of human and godlike qualities. Stories of Maui have been passed on for countless generations, spread far and wide due to the great seafaring prowess of voyagers sailing across the vast area of Moananuiakea, the Pacific Ocean. In Hawaiian folklore he is known for slowing the sun to help his mother, Hina, have time for her kapa to dry. He pulls the Hawaiian islands from the sea and rescues Hina from the vicious mo'o Kuna. His exploits are vast and varied; the best known among them are The Seven Great Deeds of Maui, which are collected and retold here.
Author Barbara Baldwin Lyons and illustrator Dietrich Varez shared a passion for Hawaiian culture, folklore and storytelling. Both of these treasured kama'aina have left us, but their enduring legacy remains. Their work is combined in this volume to bring these classic tales to a new generation of readers.
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Pele, Volcano Goddess of Hawai'i
written by W. D. Westervelt - illustrated by Dietrich Varez
Paperbound, 64 pages 978-0-912180-78-6 5.5x8.5 $14.95The ancient legends of Hawai'i tell how Pele came to the islands from far across the sea. After traveling from north to south, testing each of the islands for a home suitable for herself and her family she took up her abode in Halema'uma'u Crater at the summit of Kïlauea on the is- land of Hawai'i. To the Hawaiians of old she was a living deity. Today Pele personifies the volcano to visitors and residents, showing her capriciousness and power while both destroying and creating new land.
Perhaps it is she who weaves the spell that brings people back again and again to the island of Hawai'i, sometimes to spend the rest of their days in this vibrant land. That can be said of both Likeke R.-McBride, the author, and Dietrich Varez, the illustrator. Often crossing paths, they each found homes for themselves and their families, and lived for decades in Volcano, deep in the land of Pele. Join them in exploring stories of the fire goddess that clearly paint the history of this dynamic land as seen through the eyes of inhabitants over generations, passed down through the ages.
Originally published over fifty years ago, Pele, Volcano Goddess of Hawaii will now, with new illustrations, give these tales renewed life.
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Pele and Hi'iaka, A Tale of Two Sisters
by Dietrich Varez
Paperbound, 88 pages, 978-0-912180-69-4, 5.5x8.5, $14.95This beautifully illustrated book tells the famous story of Pele, goddess of Hawaii's volcanoes, and her youngest sister, Hi'iaka, the heroine of our story. Local author and artist Deitrich Varez retells this ancient legend with a simplified text and 40 new images in his distinct block print style.
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by L. R. McBride
Paperbound, 64 pages, 0-912180-60-9, 5.5x8.5, $8.95This recently revised and updated book presents a summary of the information available on petroglyphs, how to view them, where to find them, and tips for taking photographs. With its many illustrations and photos, Petroglyphs of Hawai'i provides petroglyph buffs with extensive information and a complete bibliography of the sources used in the research.
New maps of the Island of Hawaii show the location of the vast petroglyph fields there, with detailed instructions on how to reach the most accessible sites. Although the largest number of petroglyphs are found on the island of Hawaii, petroglyphs can be found on all the Hawaiian Islands. - (Top)
Plants of Hawai'i - How to Grow Them
by Fortunato Teho
Paperbound, 124 pages, 978-0-912180-71-7, 5.5x8.5, $17.95Hawai'i is a perfect place for gardeners — islands where almost any plant will thrive year round. Plants of Hawai'i — How to Grow Them explores this verdant environment, examining both ornamental and food plants common to gardens in Hawai'i. This easy–to–read book contains a description of each plant and its origins, as well as information about propagation, culture, and pest control. The latest edition of this gardening classic includes a new chapter on Integrated Pest Management, earth–friendly recipes for pest control and a list of gardening resources. New chapters on Hibiscus and Heliconia have been added. Photos by award–winning photographer Jack Jeffrey will enhance the reader's experience. Whether planting ornamentals for artistic expression or enjoying home-grown food for nutrition, sustainability, and economics, let Plants of Hawai'i — How to Grow Them be your guide.
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Practical Folk Medicine of Hawaii
by L. R. McBride
Paperbound, 120 pages, 978-0-912180-68-7, 5.5x8.5, $17.95
L. R. McBride combined his talents as a thorough researcher and botanical illustrator with a life-long interest in folk medicine to produce this book of extraordinary value for students of natural medicines and Hawaiiana.
Remedies consist
of fragments of the knowledge of the medical kähuna and
treatments that have come with immigrants from around the
world.Instructions are given for finding, identifying and using plants and herbs, including the tools needed to do the job. The fully illustrated text features an alphabetical listing of common ills and the natural products of the islands used to combat them.
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Stars Over Hawaii - 3rd Edition
by E. H. Bryan, Jr.
Paperbound, 74 pages, 0-912180-58-7, 8.5x11, $19.95The stars in the night sky over the Hawaiian Islands overwhelm us with feelings of wonder and amazement. They evoke images of Hawai'i's first people, sailing from faraway lands, finding their way by use of the stars in the heavens. Their knowledge of the skies, from Hokupa'a (North Star) to Hanaiakamalama (Southern Cross) helped them navigate the vast Pacific in voyaging canoes and discover new homes. Today, astronomers have explored the heavens with the use of advanced telescopes, satellites and space vehicles traveling to our sun, moon, planets and beyond. Two voyages of discovery separated by centuries, have both found a home in Hawai'i.
A regional astronomy classic for decades, the 3rd Edition has been reviewed, revised and updated by Dr. Timothy Slater, Astronomer at University of Wyoming at Laramie; senior scientist at CAPER Center for Astronomy and Physics Education Research; and an IAU member. Dr. Slater offered to contribute an update in memory of their mutual friend and colleague, the late Dr. Richard A. Crowe. In 2002 Dr. Crowe undertook the first update to Stars Over Hawaii in over 25 years, providing a tremendous amount of new science, while retaining the charm and voice of the book's creator, Edwin Bryan, Jr., as published in 1955 when he worked at Bishop Museum. Mr. Bryan's monthly Hawaiian star charts and star chart finder represent a distinguished accomplishment. Dr. Crowe added a chapter on Polynesian Voyaging and Wayfinding, and arranged for reproduction of the Polynesian Voyaging Society Star Compasses, in addition to a substantial science update. Dr. Slater has polished the statistics and updated facts with a sensitivity to Hawaiian culture gained through working with hundreds of teachers in Hawai'i. A new Hawaiian Moon Phases chart was added.Stars Over Hawai'i presents an introduction to the study of Astronomy and an overview of current knowledge about the night sky above us and the vast universe beyond. Descriptions of the constellations and some of the stories behind the Greek and Roman mythology that is associated with their names is included. Twelve monthly star charts, plus two that label star names in Hawaiian, will help guide you through the year in your own explorations of Hawai'i's brilliant starlit sky. Readers can learn about "Lahaina Noon," when the sun casts no shadow, a phenomenon exclusive to latitudes near the equator. Hawaiian Astronomy is explored through legend, surviving oral history, and the ongoing observation of the skies and our planet. The Hawaiian Moon Calendar is discussed and the Nights of the Moon are depicted and labeled in Hawaiian and other Pacific languages. Polynesian voyaging and wayfinding is celebrated with the inclusion of the Polynesian Voyaging Society's Star Compasses.
Man's knowledge of our solar system and the universe has increased dramatically in the 60 years since Stars Over Hawai'i was first published. This latest edition builds upon a solid foundation to bring star gazers up to date with current statistics and theories about our universe. Stars Over Hawai'i marries the knowledge of the masterful navigators and astronomers of ancient Hawai'i with today's astronomy experts to bring you an integrated view of Hawai'i's skies, past and present.
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by Richard Stevens
Paperbound, 84 pages, 5.5x8.5, 0-912180-57-9, $9.95Starting with the legends and history of the pandanus tree, this valuable book covers a broad range of information from a description of the hala tree and its many uses to instructions for the weaving of lauhala products made from the leaf.
The ancient Hawaiians made numerous items for daily use, from floor mats to sails, food baskets to beds. Directions for cleaning and preparing the leaves for weaving are included, along with tips for the care and preservation of lauhala. An interesting chapter on lauhala products shows the many uses of woven lauhala. Also included is a chapter on the Hawaiian names for the different parts of the hala tree, along with the uses of these various parts. This book covers everything that the curious reader needs to know to gain an appreciation for this useful tree and its versatile products.
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Tropical Organic Gardening - Hawaiian Style
by Richard Stevens
Paperbound, 84 pages, 5.5x8.5, 0-912180-57-9, $9.95Anyone who wants to grow a garden organically in a tropical climate will find Tropical Organic Gardening~Hawaiian Style an invaluable resource. Growing food organically has increased dramatically in the twenty years since this book was originally published as Organic Gardening in Hawaii. Attitudes toward improved personal health and the welfare of the natural environment have prompted changes in farming and gardening approaches.
Author Richard Stevens has drawn upon years of experimenting in his gardens to share valuable information and insights with the reader. His vast knowledge about tropical gardening was acquired through experiences in many places around the world including Guam, Vietnam, and China. Growing practices in Old Hawaii are discussed, giving insight into life in a pre-chemical world and placing organic gardening in historical perspective. Basic principles of organic gardening have been modified for tropical conditions and resources. Following an introduction to building a healthy soil, readers are given tools for natural pest control, companion plants, and organic fertilizers. Nutritional information and growing tips for popular fruits, vegetables and herbs are included. Remedies for nutrient and insect problems are conveniently listed in separate tables. The environmental impact of chemical farming is also addressed.
Richard Stevens has written a book both practical and beautiful, with a prose style that transforms a gardening manual into a work of art. Reading this book is sharing a poets love for the earth, gaining renewed respect for nature and embracing the joy of growing food organically.
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From Petroglyph Press comes blank books with island design covers
Don't let lines rule your life! These blank books are perfect for freeing your creativity. Write free of lines, sketch, turn them into a photo-album or scrap-book; these books have no limits! Nine island designs offer range of cover choices, for just $5.95.
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