Hawaii

A Novel

By: James A. Michener

Narrated by: Larry McKeever

The saga of a land from the time when the volcanic islands rose out of the sea to the decade in which they become the 50th state. Michener uses individuals' experiences to symbolize the struggle of the various races to establish themselves in the islands

Critic reviews

“Wonderful . . . [a] mammoth epic of the islands.”—The Baltimore Sun

“One novel you must not miss! A tremendous work from every point of view—thrilling, exciting, lusty, vivid, stupendous.”—Chicago Tribune

“From Michener’s devotion to the islands, he has written a monumental chronicle of Hawaii, an extraordinary and fascinating novel.”—Saturday Review

“Memorable . . . a superb biography of a people.”—Houston Chronicle

Worth every minute.

I live in Hawaii and this book really captures the history, which is a mixed bag to say the least. Narration is very solid and matches the content.
One of the few books of this length I am very likely to listen to again.

Wow!

My dad always loved Michener and I always avoided him because the type in the books was so ridiculously small. Now I understand.

This is a sweeping story of the development of an amazing society. It shows the good and bad in every group and ultimately shows just how human we all are. It’s still startlingly timely in its parallels to what’s happening in American society now. Please listen.

Poor Narrative, great story

Great story but being a native of Hawaii, narrative of Hawaiian words poorly spoken. What a shame.

Such an important story

Published in 1959, Michener’s Hawaii is a somewhat brutal, yet wonderfully written reminder that the human struggle- culturally, socioeconomically, and ethnically has so affected civilizations throughout time. And the “good over evil” theme is the most important take over that hopefully reminds all of you to make the world a better place.

Deeper than I thought. A new favorite book!

I stayed with friends descended from the old Families in Kuaui. When I have been there with them I heard stories about the family and hints of the history there. I also felt the emotions running underneath the people there in the “real” parts of the island. I remembered this book and mini series from my childhood. I’m glad I did. Best investment of Audible credits yet.


I figured this book would be dated. It was not! What a multifaceted study in the clash and ongoing unifications of cultures. The characters are rounded and fascinating. Warts and all. No political correctness here. Every culture has its died in the wool prejudices side by side with its inspired virtues that any human can stand before in tearful admiration. There is real prejudice, injustice and privilege. There is also redemption, courage, wisdom and love.

The characters will live in my mind from here on. My first review and I can’t recommend Hawaii more highly.