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“Mapuana Makia lends fluidity to this memoir's descriptions of Hawaii—its lush settings, legends and lore, and musical language. In contrasting tones, Makia delivers the painful history of colonialism and stereotyping of Hawaii as merely a tourist destination. Similarly, Makia gives listeners a felt sense of the intersectional issues faced by Machado through the juxtaposition of her proper, directive white Southern mother and her passive-seeming Indigenous father. Most memorable are Makia's vivid depictions of Machado's fierce rebelliousness and discomfort in a seeming paradise.” —AudioFile Magazine

“Narrator Mapuana Makia skillfully reads the historical sections of this memoir, enlivening them with her lyrical pronunciation of Hawaiian words. She brings out the passion in Machado’s telling of myth and legend and conveys Machado’s forthright approach as she shares her personal stories and history. A moving portrait of a woman navigating culture and identity, elevated by the use of beautiful Hawaiian language.” —Library Journal

“Mapuana Makia handles the story adeptly and has a deliberate clarity that helps the listener absorb sections exploring Hawaiian culture and mythology. Her commitment to that tone and pacing also makes clear the book is a memoir, handling the sometimes challenging subject matter as a retelling; never going too far to infuse dramatic flair. She instead lets the author's words carry the weight. This is not to say her read lacks depth or flavor, though. She's an excellent choice for the material.” —Booklist