The Whale Rider by Witi Ihimaera Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of The Whale Rider
Book Review: A great read-even the fourth time around.
Summary: 5 Stars
This is one of the best, most magnificently written books I have ever read. I actually broke my usual rule and saw the movie first. It is now my favorite movie. In no extremely drastic way do the book and the film differ, there are differences, but I've come to appriciate them both as seperate stories. It really is a fascinating read, combining a kind of magical realism and very real discription of issues indiginous groups face around the world. The story fuses spirituality with science.
Book Review: A wonderful, educational and inspiring story
Summary: 5 Stars
Not only was this book well written, it was educational and inspiring. I learned quite a bit about Maori culture from this novel. The story itself inspires one to do whatever one wills regardless of size, gender or ethnicity. It is a reminder also of the importance of tradition, and repect for one's background and culture. A great read!
Book Review: Almost as Good as Rich Man's Coffin
Summary: 4 Stars
If you're sick of the Harry Potter series, and you want to broaden your kids' horizons, this book is perfect. Transcending the gender and racial stereotypes, this book will thrill, entertain, and educate young boys and girls all at the same time. Short of overcoming the myth that everyone who looks Polynesian is from Hawaii, this book will lay out in rich detail the cultural history of New Zealand for young readers and adults alike, in an exciting thrill ride. Bringing to light and bringing together New Zealands "clean and green" image with its fascinating Maori people, this book instills young minds with the importance of preserving the Earth, living beliefs of all people, and the idea that we are all connected.For detailing Maori tradition and customs, this book ranks up there with Kenneth Gardner's debut novel, Rich Man's Coffin, which deals with a bit more adult themes including the days of cannibalism, but nonetheless focuses on the unique and beautiful spiritual rituals of the Maori.
For anyone wanting to immerse themself in the culture and beauty of a far away land, New Zealand, which seems to becoming all the rage in America these days, I recommend The Whale Rider wholeheartedly.
Book Review: Beautiful, magical, ...
Summary: 5 Stars
I didn't know about the incredible Maori author Witi Ihimaera until I saw the movie. After seeing it, I had to read the book. Don't expect it to be just like the movie, but I highly recommend both the book and the movie. The basic question is can a girl be a Maori leader? I really enjoyed learning more about Maori traditions and beliefs as well as the wisdom of the elder characters. For example, I thought the custom of burying the birth cord was fascinating. The book had additional levels of folklore and mythology. I don't want to get into details as not to spoil the story, but I have a few general comments. I especially found the mother wise in naming the child and the play or power play between man and woman is a recurring theme. Karen Woodworth-Roman
Book Review: Can't
Summary: 4 Stars
give a review on something I havn't read, whoever made an idea like that, I give a review after I've read the book.