Ho'onani feels in-between. She doesn't see herself as wahine (girl) OR kāne (boy). She's happy to be in the middle. But not everyone sees it that way. When Ho'onani finds out that there will be a school performance of a traditional kāne hula chant, she wants to be part of it. But can a girl really lead the all-male troupe? Ho'onani has to try...
Based on a true story, Ho'onani: Hula Warrior is a celebration of Hawaiian culture and an empowering story of a girl who learns to lead and learns to accept who she really is — and in doing so, gains the respect of all those around her. Ho'onani's story first appeared in the documentary A Place in the Middle by filmmakers Dean Hamer and Joe Wilson.
"Based on the documentary A Place in the Middle, this story brings to light the Hawaiian tradition of valuing those who are māhū, or nonbinary. Teacher and activist Kumu Hina creates a place of safety and acceptance, encouraging her students to treat others with respect. Hoʻonani’s courage to be true to herself and her place in the middle is empowering. Hawaiian words are intermixed, and Song’s illustrations are full of emotion and determination. Hoʻonani deserves a place on any shelf." — Kirkus Reviews
Recommended Age | 5 - 9 |
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Author | Heather Gale |
Illustrator | Mika Song |
ISBN | 073526449X |
Publication Date | Oct 1, 2019 |
Publisher | Tundra Books |
Language | English |